MANALI RATHEE | Geopolymer Concrete | Women Researcher Award

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Ms.MANALI RATHEE | Geopolymer Concrete | Women Researcher Award

PHD SCHOLAR at IIT JAMMU, India.

Manali Rathee 🎓 is a dedicated civil engineering researcher focused on sustainable construction materials. Born on 25 January 1997 in Sonipat, Haryana 🇮🇳, she is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at IIT Jammu, specializing in geopolymer concrete—a low-carbon alternative to traditional cement ♻️. Her work integrates advanced materials like MXenes and graphene to improve durability and reduce environmental impact 🌍. With global exposure from Japan’s SAKURA Science Program 🇯🇵 and numerous international conference presentations 🌐, Manali aims to contribute to India’s Net-Zero 2070 vision. She blends scientific rigor with practical innovation, contributing significantly to eco-conscious infrastructure solutions 🏗️📘.

Professional Profile

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Suitability For Women Research Award – Ms.MANALI RATHEE

Manali Rathee is a promising and impactful young woman researcher in the domain of sustainable civil engineering 🏗️🌍. Her contributions to geopolymer concrete technology—an eco-friendly alternative to Portland cement—are crucial in advancing green construction practices and addressing climate change challenges ♻️. She has proven research expertise through international publications, a filed patent, and participation in global platforms such as Japan’s SAKURA Science Program 🇯🇵. As a doctoral scholar at IIT Jammu, Manali blends innovation with environmental stewardship, making her an ideal candidate for the Women Researcher Award 👩‍🔬✨.

Education & Experience 

🎓 Ph.D. in Civil Engineering – IIT Jammu (2021–Present)
🔬 Research focus: Geopolymer concrete, durability, nano-materials
📚 M.Tech in Structural & Construction Management – NIT Jalandhar (2019–2021)
🧱 Thesis on low-cost paving blocks using waste materials (TEQIP-III funded)
📐 B.Tech in Civil Engineering – GL Bajaj Institute, Uttar Pradesh (2014–2018)
🚧 Final project: National Highway Design with NHAI
🛠️ Industry Experience – Internship at NTPC Netra Site & NBCC India
👩‍🏫 Teaching Assistant at IIT Jammu and NIT Jalandhar

Professional Development 

Manali Rathee consistently pursues professional growth through academic, industrial, and international avenues 📈. She participated in the prestigious SAKURA Science Exchange Program in Japan 🇯🇵, enhancing her global perspective on sustainable materials. She’s attended top-tier international conferences in the UK 🇬🇧 and India 🇮🇳, showcasing her work in low-carbon construction 🌿. As a Teaching Assistant at both NIT Jalandhar and IIT Jammu 👩‍🏫, she’s contributed to developing academic curricula and mentoring peers. Her analytical skills in XRD, SEM, FTIR 🔬, and her software fluency in STAAD Pro and AutoCAD 💻 equip her to drive innovation in structural materials research 🏗️.

Research Focus

Manali’s research lies in the realm of sustainable civil engineering 🏗️🌍, focusing on geopolymer concrete—a low-emission, high-performance alternative to Portland cement. Her work contributes to carbon-neutral infrastructure by utilizing industrial waste like copper slag, fly ash, and zinc slag ♻️. She studies durability mechanics, chloride penetration, carbonation resistance, and thermal performance under aggressive environmental conditions 🌡️🌊. By integrating nanomaterials such as MXene and functional graphene, she enhances structural strength and longevity 🔬💎. Her research is aligned with India’s Net-Zero 2070 goals and the global push for greener urban development 🌱🌆, combining innovation with sustainability.

Awards and Honors

🏅 Among Top 3 in M.Tech Structural Engineering at NIT Jalandhar
📚 TEQIP-III Sponsored Project Grant – ₹4.85 Lakhs
🎓 B.Tech Civil Engineering with Honors
🎯 GATE Qualified – 97th Percentile in 2018, 2019, and 2020
🧪 Patent Filed – Polymerized Novel Cementitious Binder (2024)
🌍 SAKURA Science Exchange Program Participant – Japan (2023)
📖 Multiple High-Impact Publications – ACS, Elsevier, Springer Journals
🌐 International Conference Presenter – UK, Scotland, IIT Madras, NITJ

Publication Top Notes

1. Durability Properties of Copper Slag and Coal Bottom Ash Based I-shaped Geopolymer Paver Blocks

Authors: M. Rathee, N. Singh
Journal: Construction and Building Materials, Vol. 347, Article 128461
Citations: 20 | Year: 2022
Summary:
This paper investigates the use of industrial by-products—copper slag and coal bottom ash—in the production of geopolymer-based I-shaped paver blocks. The study evaluates mechanical and durability properties including water absorption, abrasion, and resistance to aggressive environments, indicating that the blocks have potential for sustainable paving applications.

2. Carbonation Resistance of Blended Mortars and Industrial By-products: A Brief Review

Authors: N. Singh, B. Sharma, M. Rathee
Journal: Cleaner Materials, Vol. 4, Article 100058
Citations: 20 | Year: 2022
Summary:
This review focuses on the carbonation resistance of mortars incorporating supplementary cementitious materials and industrial wastes. It summarizes key influencing parameters, performance of different blends, and highlights the role of material chemistry in resisting carbonation-induced degradation in concrete structures.

3. Study of Mechanical Properties of Geopolymer Mortar Prepared with Fly Ash and GGBS

Authors: M. Rathee, A. Misra, J. Kolleboyina
Journal: Materials Today: Proceedings, Vol. 93, pp. 377–386
Citations: 13 | Year: 2023
Summary:
This study assesses the mechanical performance—including compressive, flexural, and split tensile strength—of geopolymer mortar made using fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS). The results demonstrate superior early-age and long-term strength development, making it a viable alternative to conventional cement mortar.

4. Reviewing Geopolymer Concrete: A Possible Sustainable Structural Material of Future

Authors: M. Rathee, N. Singh
Journal: Environment, Development and Sustainability
Citations: 5 | Year: 2024
Summary:
This comprehensive review explores geopolymer concrete as a sustainable alternative to traditional Portland cement. It discusses environmental benefits, mechanical properties, material constituents, and application challenges, positioning it as a future-forward material for eco-friendly construction.

5. Interfacial Chemistry of Ti₃C₂Tₓ MXene in Aluminosilicate Geopolymers for Enhanced Mechanical Strength

Authors: M. Rathee, H.K. Surendran, C. Narayana, R. Lo, A. Misra, K. Jayaramulu
Journal: ACS Applied Engineering Materials, Vol. 2(8), pp. 2027–2037
Citations: 3 | Year: 2024
Summary:
This paper presents the novel integration of MXene nanomaterials (Ti₃C₂Tₓ) into geopolymer matrices. By analyzing the interfacial interactions, it shows that MXenes significantly enhance mechanical strength and microstructural integrity, making them promising additives for next-gen construction materials.

6. Performance of Alkali-Activated Aluminosilicate Geopolymer Mortar Under Exposure to Acid, Sulfate and High Temperature

Authors: M. Rathee, A. Misra
Journal: Magazine of Concrete Research, Vol. 77(3–4), pp. 209–227
Citations: 1 | Year: 2024
Summary:
This experimental study examines how alkali-activated geopolymer mortars perform under chemical attacks (acid, sulfate) and thermal exposure. The paper concludes that such mortars demonstrate excellent resistance to harsh environments, validating their application in aggressive field conditions like sewage systems or thermal industries.

Conclusion

Manali Rathee exemplifies the spirit of the Women Researcher Award by not only advancing cutting-edge research in sustainable materials but also by contributing to the broader mission of climate-conscious engineering 🌱🌎. Her interdisciplinary approach, academic excellence, and societal relevance firmly establish her as a highly deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition 👏🏽🏆.

Wei Chen | 3D printing of concrete | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Wei Chen | 3D printing of concrete | Best Researcher Award

Student/Member, School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, China

Wei Chen is a dedicated researcher specializing in 3D printed low-carbon concrete and loess mechanics. He has contributed to multiple scientific research projects, including the development of 3D printing extrusion devices and innovative concrete materials. His work integrates material science, structural engineering, and sustainability, making significant advancements in construction technology. He has participated in various national and international collaborations, particularly in China-Australia innovation projects. With expertise in data analysis, mechanical testing, and material formulation, Wei Chen has published impactful research in top journals.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

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STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARD 🏆

✅ Extensive Research Contributions – Wei Chen has participated in multiple high-impact research projects, including national and international collaborations, demonstrating a strong research portfolio.
✅ Innovation in 3D Printing and Low-Carbon Concrete – His work on 3D printed low-carbon concrete and extrusion devices aligns with sustainability and advanced construction technology.
✅ Publications in High-Impact Journals – His research has been published in Construction and Building Materials and Journal of Building Engineering, both reputable journals in the field.
✅ Interdisciplinary Expertise – His contributions span material science, structural engineering, and environmental sustainability, showcasing a diverse research skill set.
✅ Collaboration with Industry & Government – His involvement in enterprise cooperation projects and government-funded research highlights the real-world impact of his work.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT 📈

🔹 Expanding Research Outreach – Increasing citations and presenting research findings at international conferences could further solidify his reputation.
🔹 Broader Collaboration – Engaging with a wider network of international researchers may enhance interdisciplinary innovation.
🔹 Patent Development – Protecting and commercializing his innovations in 3D printing technology could enhance his research impact.

EDUCATION 🎓

📍 Southeast University, Nanjing, China (2021-2025)
Pursuing a doctoral degree, Wei Chen is deeply engaged in research on low-carbon concrete and its applications in 3D printing technology. His academic journey focuses on material behavior, mechanical properties, and sustainability in construction engineering. He has developed expertise in experimental techniques, mix design, and extrusion-based concrete applications, contributing to advancing sustainable building materials.

EXPERIENCE 🏗️

🔹 Central Universities Fund Project (2014-2015) – Data collection and analysis of flow/slip damage in loess.
🔹 Ming Great Wall Repair Project (2014-2015) – Restoration planning and data collection.
🔹 Highway Engineering in Wet Loess Areas (2014-2017) – Conducted mechanical property testing.
🔹 China-Australia Bilateral Innovation Project (2020-2022) – Developed mix ratios for 3D printed concrete.
🔹 Enterprise R&D Project on 3D Printed Concrete (2023-2024) – Innovating low-carbon concrete materials.
🔹 National Natural Science Foundation of China Project – Studying plastic state behavior of 3D printed concrete.

AWARDS AND HONORS 🏆

🏅 Recognized for contributions to 3D printed construction materials.
🏅 Recipient of research funding from national and provincial projects.
🏅 Active participant in prestigious international collaborations.
🏅 Acknowledged for innovations in low-carbon concrete applications.
🏅 Contributor to high-impact scientific publications.

RESEARCH FOCUS 🔬

🔬 3D Printed Low-Carbon Concrete – Advancing sustainable construction techniques.
🔬 Geopolymer Concrete – Enhancing mechanical properties and durability.
🔬 Loess Mechanics – Investigating flow and slip damage in saturated soils.
🔬 Extrusion-Based 3D Printing – Developing advanced printing technologies.
🔬 Structural Performance of Printed Concrete – Improving strength and resilience.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES📚

📖 Influence of extruded strip shape and dimension on the mechanical properties and pore characteristics of 3D printed geopolymer concrete – Construction and Building Materials (2025)
📖 Improving mechanical properties of 3D printable ‘one-part’ geopolymer concrete with steel fiber reinforcement – Journal of Building Engineering (2023)

CONCLUSION 🔍

Wei Chen is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his outstanding contributions to 3D printed low-carbon concrete, mechanical behavior of construction materials, and sustainable building technologies. His interdisciplinary approach, research output, and industry collaborations make him well-suited for this recognition. With increased international visibility and commercialization efforts, he could further strengthen his case for prestigious research awards

Amirali Milani | Concrete Beams | Best Researcher Award

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Amirali Milani | Concrete Beams | Best Researcher Award

Additive manufacturing lead researcher, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran

Amirali Milani is a dedicated researcher and engineer in the field of mechanical engineering, with a focus on additive manufacturing and advanced materials. He is currently pursuing his Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at Tarbiat Modares University, Iran, under the guidance of Prof. Amir H. Behravesh and Prof. Ghaus Rizvi. Amirali’s research interests lie in the areas of 3D printing, biopolymers, and cementitious composite materials. He has developed expertise in various additive manufacturing techniques, particularly in direct ink writing (DIW) and fused deposition modeling (FDM). He has also gained hands-on experience working as a mechanical design engineer, where he played a pivotal role in the development of high-speed 3D printers. Amirali’s work in the biomedical sector, especially on biodegradable and biocompatible materials, aims to contribute to advancements in medical devices and tissue engineering.

Profile

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Strengths for the Award

Amirali Milani’s research focuses on cutting-edge areas of additive manufacturing and advanced materials, demonstrating his deep expertise in the intersection of 3D printing, biopolymers, and cementitious composite materials. His contributions to improving the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of 3D-printed materials, particularly in the biomedical field (e.g., hernia repair meshes), are notable. His involvement in publishing papers in high-impact journals like Engineering Failure Analysis and Scientific Reports reflects his capacity for rigorous academic work. His experience at Ayhan AM Co. in designing commercial 3D printers further highlights his practical application of research and engineering skills. His involvement in both academic research and industry projects demonstrates a strong blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, making him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Areas for Improvement

While Amirali has shown great strength in additive manufacturing and biopolymers, there is potential for expanding his work into the broader aspects of mechanical engineering, such as systems integration and optimization in manufacturing processes. Additionally, greater visibility in international collaborations or the development of more patents could enhance his profile.

Education 

Amirali Milani is currently completing his Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Manufacturing at Tarbiat Modares University, Iran. He began his graduate studies in September 2020, working under the supervision of Prof. Amir H. Behravesh (Tarbiat Modares University) and Prof. Ghaus Rizvi (Ontario Tech University). Amirali holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Babol Noshirvani University of Technology, Iran, where he graduated in September 2020. During his undergraduate studies, he focused on manufacturing processes and material optimization under the guidance of Prof. Mohammad Bakhshi-Jooybari. Amirali’s academic journey has given him a deep understanding of advanced manufacturing techniques, materials science, and the practical applications of 3D printing in engineering. His studies are heavily focused on improving the mechanical properties of additive manufactured products and exploring new materials for innovative applications in both engineering and biomedical fields.

Experience 

Amirali Milani has gained valuable experience in mechanical design and research, particularly in the field of additive manufacturing. As a Mechanical Design Engineer at Ayhan AM Co., Iran, he worked from April to July 2023, where he was instrumental in redesigning and developing high-speed commercial 3D printers (models AP+ and Aydu3). He also contributed to debugging and completing the firmware (Marlin2) for specific printer models, enhancing their performance and functionality. Amirali also completed a summer internship at Niroo Research Institute in 2019, where he worked in the Rotary Equipment Section. During this time, he focused on evaluating the corrosion behavior of additively manufactured Inconel 625 under high temperatures and harsh environments. His hands-on experience in designing and optimizing 3D printing technology, combined with his research on materials science, has allowed him to contribute to innovative advancements in additive manufacturing, materials testing, and biomedical applications.

Awards and Honors 

Amirali Milani’s academic and professional achievements have earned him recognition for his contributions to mechanical engineering and additive manufacturing. He has been commended for his research excellence and was selected to work under the guidance of renowned professors at both Tarbiat Modares University and Ontario Tech University. His work on improving the mechanical properties of 3D-printed materials has been accepted for publication in prestigious journals such as Engineering Failure Analysis and Scientific Reports. Amirali’s research on biocompatible materials, particularly in the development of hernia repair meshes, has garnered attention in both academic and industrial sectors. His outstanding work on optimizing 3D-printed reinforced concrete beams has also contributed to advancements in construction materials. These accolades reflect his growing influence in the additive manufacturing field. His passion for sustainable and cutting-edge technologies continues to drive his research towards creating innovative solutions in both the biomedical and engineering sectors.

Research Focus 

Amirali Milani’s research focuses on the intersection of additive manufacturing, material science, and biomedical engineering. His primary areas of interest include extrusion-based 3D printing techniques such as Direct Ink Writing (DIW) and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), with a particular focus on polymers, biodegradable biopolymers, and cementitious composite materials. Amirali explores the mechanical properties of 3D-printed materials, evaluating their strength, fracture dynamics, and biocompatibility, particularly for applications in biomedical devices such as surgical meshes. He has conducted extensive research on the use of polycaprolactone-cellulose composites for hernia repair, aiming to improve the durability and biocompatibility of medical devices. Additionally, Amirali is investigating the optimization of 3D-printed concrete for construction applications, exploring different reinforcement patterns and their impact on material strength and failure. His research contributes to both the practical and theoretical development of additive manufacturing, aiming to create more sustainable and functional materials for diverse industrial and medical uses.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Optimization of 3D-Printing Reinforced Concrete Beams with Four Types of Reinforced Patterns and Different Distances 🏗️📊
    Engineering Failure Analysis – Accept – Nov. 18, 2024
  2. Experimental Investigation of Mechanical Properties and Fracture Dynamics in 3D-Printed Fiber-Reinforced Silica Fume-Cemented Sand 🔬🧱
    Scientific Reports – Under Review
  3. Fabrication of Polycaprolactone-Cellulose Composite Hernia Repair Mesh via Direct Ink Writing: Evaluating Mechanical Properties and Biocompatibility 🩺🩹
    Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials – Submitted

Conclusion

Amirali Milani is a promising researcher with significant contributions to additive manufacturing and biomedical applications. His focus on sustainable materials and 3D printing technology is highly relevant and timely, placing him as a strong contender for the Research for Best Researcher Award. With further development in patenting, broader industry collaborations, and extending his work into new domains, Amirali has the potential to become a leader in his field.

SURIYAPRAKASH – Advanced Concrete Technology – Best Researcher Award

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SURIYAPRAKASH - Advanced Concrete Technology - Best Researcher Award

SRM Institute of Science and Technology - India

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

CAREER OBJECTIVE

SURIYAPRAKASH aims to secure a challenging position that allows for effective contribution of skills and abilities while fostering professional growth through resourcefulness, innovation, and flexibility.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Currently, Suriyaprakash is a Research Assistant at the Center for Environmental Nuclear Research, SRMIST, where he has been working since July 2019. Prior to this, he was a Research Scholar at the same center from January 2016 to June 2019 and a Research Associate in the Department of Biotechnology, SRMIST from July 2012 to June 2014. He has also held the position of Research Assistant at SRMIST from July 2010 to May 2011 and served as Office In-charge (Maintenance) in SRM Hostels, SRM University from September 2010 to December 2015.

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

Suriyaprakash has part-time teaching experience at CSC Computer Education, Valapaadi, Salem, where he worked from July 2005 to August 2006. His responsibilities included observing and evaluating student performance, developing schemes of work and lesson plans, and providing various learning materials and resources.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Throughout his career, he has been responsible for maintaining records, preparing bills in ERP, controlling hostel systems, handling office works, receiving student complaints, maintaining student attendance, and ensuring compliance with hostel rules and regulations.

ADDITIONAL COURSES

Suriyaprakash has completed several additional courses, including a Diploma in Medical Lab Technician (DMLT) from Naga Institute of Paramedical Science, certified by Bharat Sevak Samaj, a Diploma in Computer Application (DCA) from CSC Computer Education, and Medical Coding from Tech Skills, Anna Nagar, Chennai.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

His research experience includes projects funded by IGCAR at the Center for Environmental Nuclear Research, where he has been involved in significant research activities contributing to advancements in environmental nuclear research.

ADMINISTRATIVE ROLES

In addition to his research and teaching roles, Suriyaprakash has also managed administrative tasks such as maintaining hostel systems and records, preparing ERP bills, and supervising student activities and compliance with regulations at SRM University Hostels.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Electrospun nanofibers synthesized from polymers incorporated with bioactive compounds for wound healing 2024