Developments

PARSO (Particle-packing and Radiation Shielding Optimizer)

PARSO is an advanced software tool developed to assist engineers and researchers in designing ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) mixtures with enhanced particle packing and radiation shielding properties. This innovative application allows users to input their own materials, including cement, sand, and aggregates, etc..., and provides a comprehensive analysis of the mixture's particle size distribution and theoretical radiation shielding capabilities.

Key features of the software include:
  • Packing Density Evaluation: Utilizing the modified Andreasson model, the software evaluates the packing density of the mixture, providing crucial insights into the compactness and potential performance of the UHPC.
  • Attenuation Coefficient Evaluation: Using the chemical composition of materials, the software can calculate the attenuation coefficient of materials and mixtures for both gamma and neutron radiations.
  • Optimization Capabilities: The software can perform iterative optimizations to determine the optimal proportions of ingredients, aiming to achieve the highest possible packing density and/or radiation shielding. This feature is particularly beneficial for developing mixtures with superior mechanical properties, durability, and radiation shielding.
This tool is an invaluable asset for professionals in the field of civil engineering, particularly those focused on the development of nuclear containment structures and other applications requiring robust radiation shielding. By streamlining the mixture design process and providing detailed analytical capabilities, the McMaster Radiation Shielding UHPC Designer helps users achieve optimal performance and safety standards in their projects.

Cast Track

Cast Track is a software tool developed to assist lab engineers and researchers in keeping track of concrete mixtures casting dates and their corresponding test dates (7 day, 28 day, etc...). The software displays the casting dates and test dates in a calendar format, allowing users to easily visualize and manage their concrete testing schedule.

Key features of the software:
  • Supports an infinite number of cast entries and test dates
  • Calendar View: The software provides a calendar view that displays the casting test dates for each mixture, allowing users to easily visualize and manage their concrete testing schedule.

Version 0.7
Released 24/May/2025

Changelog:

  • The cast data menu (left panel) now displays the final test date for each cast
  • Casts that expired (i.e., the final test date is in the past) are now displayed in dark gray
  • When editing an existing cast entry, the test days checkboxes are now copied from the original cast entry
  • You can now shift click in the cast data menu to select multiple cast entries and delete them all at once
  • Added a recycle bin feature to the cast data menu, so that deleted cast entries are not permanently deleted but rather moved to a recycle bin

Version 0.6
Released 6/May/2025

Changelog:

  • You can now double click cast entries to edit them
  • Enhanced tabbing between fields in the cast addition menu
  • Fixed many bugs in the GUI display in various displays
  • Added serial numbers for cast entries so that they are more easily identifiable not only through colors

Version 0.5
Released 5/May/2025

Changelog:

  • This is the initial release of the software