Karl Peterson

Karl Peterson is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil & Mineral Engineering at the University of Toronto. His research focuses on Building Engineering and Concrete Materials, with an emphasis on microstructural analysis of concrete and other materials. Peterson's expertise includes the application of microscopic techniques to study the durability and performance of building materials. He holds a B.S. in Geology from the University of Minnesota and M.S. and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Michigan Technological University. His professional experience includes roles at the Minnesota Department of Transportation and Michigan Technological University prior to joining the University of Toronto.

Karl Peterson is a researcher at the University of Toronto with a focus on the chemical and physical behavior of concrete under various environmental conditions. His work explores the effects of deicing solutions, chloride ingress, and magnesium chloride exposure on Portland cement concrete. Peterson investigates the formation of calcium oxychloride and its impact on concrete durability. He also examines the long-term effects of salt solutions on pavement and structural concrete. His research includes the use of advanced imaging techniques such as X-ray computed tomography and flatbed scanners for air-void system analysis in hardened concrete. Additionally, he contributes to the study of alkali-activated concretes, evaluating their sulfate resistance, freeze–thaw resistance, and compressive strength.