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 👏🏽🏆.

Abubakari Malik | Sustainable Construction Practices | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Abubakari Malik | Sustainable Construction Practices | Best Researcher Award

Student/Member, Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences, Malawi

Abubakari Malik is a passionate researcher and academic currently pursuing an MSc in Infrastructure Development and Management at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS). He has a BSc in Quantity Surveying and Construction Economics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. Abubakari has experience in research, project monitoring and evaluation, construction economics, and community leadership. He has contributed to several scholarly works, particularly focusing on sustainable construction practices, digital technologies like BIM, and risk management in construction projects. Abubakari’s professional journey includes teaching roles at MUBAS, project monitoring with the Ghana Education Trust Fund, and internships with reputable firms in the construction industry. His work reflects a deep commitment to addressing the challenges in infrastructure development, particularly in developing countries.

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Strengths for the Award

Abubakari Malik demonstrates a strong academic and professional background, making him a promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His ongoing MSc in Infrastructure Development and Management at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) shows his commitment to academic excellence, with a focus on sustainable construction practices. His research interests in sustainable construction, digital technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Digital Twin, and construction risk management align well with the needs of the construction industry in developing countries. Abubakari has contributed to high-impact publications, including journal articles and book chapters on sustainable procurement practices and infrastructure development. His previous professional experience, including roles in project monitoring, quantity surveying, and teaching, adds a practical dimension to his research, showcasing a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on expertise. His multidisciplinary approach and leadership potential make him a standout researcher in the field.

Areas for Improvement

While Abubakari has shown promise in his academic and professional journey, there are areas where he could further strengthen his profile. Expanding his research scope to include broader case studies from various countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, could enhance the global relevance of his work. Additionally, greater involvement in collaborative international research projects would further elevate his visibility in the global research community. While his current publications are commendable, increased frequency in publishing in high-impact journals could help to solidify his standing as a leading researcher in infrastructure development. Developing stronger networks with industry experts and policymakers could also amplify the practical impact of his research findings.

Education

Abubakari Malik is currently pursuing a Master of Science (MSc) in Infrastructure Development and Management at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), with an expected graduation in March 2025. His research focuses on assessing the sustainability of construction practices in building infrastructure projects in Malawi. Prior to this, Abubakari completed a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Quantity Surveying and Construction Economics at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana, in 2021. During his undergraduate studies, he specialized in construction economics and the measurement of onsite labor productivity. His academic background equips him with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for sustainable development in the construction sector, emphasizing the integration of modern technology, efficient management practices, and sustainability in infrastructure projects.

Experience

Abubakari Malik has diverse professional experience in academia, research, and the construction industry. At the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), he serves as a Staff Associate in the Department of Civil Engineering, where he prepares course materials, delivers lectures, and administers exams. Before joining MUBAS, he worked as a Project Monitoring Officer with the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), where he was responsible for monitoring educational infrastructure projects and compiling reports for management decisions. Abubakari also interned as an Assistant Quantity Surveyor with A&QS Consortium and AESL in Ghana, where he gained hands-on experience in measuring construction works, preparing bill of quantities, and writing site reports. His early career also includes teaching at Our Home International School in WA, where he taught mathematics, science, and English.

Awards and Honors

Abubakari Malik has been recognized for his academic excellence throughout his educational journey. He graduated with Second Class Upper Honors in Quantity Surveying and Construction Economics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). His dedication to research and sustainable infrastructure development has earned him several opportunities to contribute to international publications, including journal articles and book chapters. Abubakari has been commended for his contributions to the academic community at MUBAS, where he is actively involved in both teaching and research. Additionally, his involvement in high-impact projects, including the monitoring of educational infrastructure projects for GETFund, has enhanced his reputation in the field of construction economics and project management.

Research Focus

Abubakari Malik’s research interests lie at the intersection of sustainable construction practices, digital technologies, and infrastructure management. He is particularly focused on the sustainability of construction practices in Malawi, where he is conducting research as part of his MSc thesis. Abubakari is also exploring the application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Digital Twin technologies in improving construction project outcomes, especially in terms of efficiency, cost management, and environmental sustainability. His research contributes to understanding the drivers of sustainable procurement and risk management in infrastructure projects, especially in developing countries. Through his work, Abubakari aims to improve the resilience and sustainability of infrastructure projects in sub-Saharan Africa.

Publications

  1. “Sustainable Construction Practices in Building Infrastructure Projects: The Extent of Implementation and Drivers in Malawi” 🌍🏗️
  2. “Challenges of Sustainable Procurement Practices in Northern Ghana” 🇬🇭📊
  3. “Development and Infrastructure in Developing Countries: A 10-Year Reflection” 📚🌍

Conclusion

Abubakari Malik has demonstrated impressive academic achievements, practical experience, and a research focus that addresses significant challenges in infrastructure development, particularly in developing countries. His research on sustainable construction practices and the use of digital technologies positions him as a future leader in the field. With a solid foundation in both theoretical research and industry practice, Abubakari is well on his way to making meaningful contributions to the field of construction and infrastructure management. While there is room for growth in terms of publication frequency and international collaboration, his current work shows great promise, and he is deserving of consideration for the Best Researcher Award.