This area of competence is the construction sector that provides the built environment, which supports modern life and all economic activities. The extent, quality and costs of the built environment affect the quality of life of the population and the economic competitiveness of the country.

The industrial chain of materials and components as a whole, and that of cement materials in particular, generate products to meet the technical requirements for construction, maintenance (repair, recovery) and dismantling of civil construction works. The same material needs to meet technical needs that vary according to the place of application and to the nature of the construction work in which they will be incorporated – buildings, dams, pavements, bridges, towers, etc.

The isolated research about civil construction materials has, therefore, more effectiveness in the accumulation of scientific knowledge than in the production of innovations. Understanding the demands and limits of different applications and the search for integrated solutions is fundamental in the innovation process.