Structural Materials and Assemblies Group
Structural Materials and Assemblies Group (SMAG)
is a research
and consultancy group within the School of Natural and Built Environments,
which is part of the Division of Information Technology, Engineering and the
Environment at the Mawson Lakes campus of the University of South
Australia.
SMAG was established in 1980 by a team of academics specialising in
areas of civil
engineering. SMAG has recently grown to incorporate manufacturing
and metallurgy staff into its team. Together the team provides expert research and consultancy
services to industry, government agencies and the general public alike.
Members of
SMAG contribute their expertise to the group and work both independently
or collaboratively on projects to provide a multidisciplinary approach
on engineering challenges.
Projects undertaken are often in collaboration with
industry
associations with the aim of
enhancing performance through the application of research and
development techniques. Specialised consulting services are offered using the
latest information and technology and provide timely and accountable
information.
The group provides
nationally and internationally recognised and accredited research,
education and appraisal of building and construction
materials, structures, pavements, foundations and manufacturing
techniques. Focus is being broadened to include evaluation of sustainable construction
materials and construction systems.
Objectives of the group are to:
-
provide an independent specialist research and development facility for industry
-
establish dynamic and collaborative long-term relationships with industry
-
develop innovative research initiatives in collaboration with other research bodies and industry
-
attract postgraduate students, both local and international, to study in a research team environment
-
provide an integrated source of applied research and development
-
develop initiatives to produce increasingly sustainable residential construction