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 🏗️📘.

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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 👏🏽🏆.

Rathish Kumar Pancharathi | Concrete Making Materials | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr Rathish Kumar Pancharathi | Concrete Making Materials | Best Researcher Award

Professor and Dean at National Institute of Technology Warangal, India

Dr. Rathish Kumar Pancharathi is a distinguished Professor and Dean of Planning and Development at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Warangal, India. With a robust academic background, including a Ph.D. from NIT Warangal and a Doctor of Engineering from Kitami Institute of Technology, Japan, he has over two decades of experience in civil engineering. Dr. Pancharathi specializes in sustainable construction materials, structural health monitoring, and earthquake engineering. He has guided numerous Ph.D. and M.Tech students, published over 250 research papers, and authored several books. His leadership roles include serving on national and international committees, contributing to Indian Standard codes, and collaborating with global institutions. Recognized for his excellence, he has received multiple awards, including the Best Engineering Faculty Award and the Earth Leader Award for Sustainable Development.

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Education 🎓

  • Post-Doctoral Fellowship (PDF): Kitami Institute of Technology, Japan (2009-2010) 🇯🇵
  • Doctor of Engineering (Dr.Eng.): Kitami Institute of Technology, Japan (2003-2006) 🇯🇵
  • Ph.D.: National Institute of Technology Warangal, India (2000-2003) 🇮🇳
  • M.Tech.: Regional Engineering College, Warangal, India (1990-1992) 🇮🇳
  • B.Tech.: Kakatiya University, India (1986-1990) 🇮🇳
    Dr. Pancharathi’s academic journey is marked by prestigious scholarships, including the Japanese Government’s JSPS and Monbusho Scholarships, and the Indian Government Scholarship. His education spans advanced research in civil engineering, focusing on sustainable materials and structural resilience, laying the foundation for his impactful career.

Experience  💼

Dr. Pancharathi has held key leadership roles, including Dean of Planning and Development and Head of Civil Engineering at NIT Warangal. He has contributed to national standards as a committee member for Indian Standard Codes (IS 2542, IS 712) and the Indian Roads Congress. Internationally, he collaborated with institutions in Japan, New Zealand, and Portugal. His administrative roles include chairing infrastructure and drainage committees, leading accreditation efforts, and managing consultancy projects worth crores of INR. He has also been a primary evaluator for Toycathon 2021, a Government of India initiative. His expertise spans structural stability assessments, design vetting, and sustainable construction practices, making him a pivotal figure in civil engineering.

Awards and Honors  🏆

  • Best Engineering Faculty Award (2023) 🥇
  • Earth Leader Award for Sustainable Development (2020) 🌍
  • Duo-India Fellowship (2020-21) 🇮🇳🇬🇧
  • Aftab Mufti Medal for Structural Health Monitoring (2013) 🏗️
  • JSPS Post-Doctoral Fellowship (2009-2010) 🇯🇵
  • Monbukagakusho Scholarship (2003-2006) 🇯🇵
  • Erasmus Mundus Heritage Scholarship (2013) 🇵🇹
  • Distinguished Alumnus Award, Kakatiya University 🎓
    Dr. Pancharathi’s accolades reflect his contributions to engineering education, research, and sustainable development, both nationally and internationally.

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Pancharathi’s research focuses on sustainable construction materials, including recycled aggregate concrete, low-cost building materials, and high-performance mortars. He explores structural health monitoring, earthquake engineering, and microstructure analysis of concrete. His work also includes repair and rehabilitation of structures, composite materials, and heritage conservation. He integrates advanced techniques like machine learning and digital image correlation for material optimization and structural assessment. His collaborations with global institutions have advanced knowledge in sustainable infrastructure, making significant contributions to eco-friendly construction practices and resilient infrastructure development.

Publication Top Notes 📚

  1. Performance and Microstructure of Agro Biochar-Based Cement Mortars (2025)
  2. Optimizing Compressive Strength of RCA Concrete Using ML (2024)
  3. Low-Grade Limestone-Based Sustainable Cements (2024)
  4. Deterioration Assessment in Repurposed Concrete (2024)
  5. Machine Learning for Concrete Strength Prediction (2024)
  6. Multi-Recycled Aggregate Concrete Using Particle Packing (2024)
  7. Colour Reference Charts for Concrete Deterioration (2024)
  8. Stress-Strain Model for Self-Curing Concrete (2024)
  9. Image-Based Deterioration Assessment in Concrete (2024)
  10. Carbon Sequestration in Agro Biochar Mortars (2025)

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Rathish Kumar Pancharathi is a luminary in civil engineering, blending academic excellence, administrative leadership, and groundbreaking research. His contributions to sustainable construction, structural health monitoring, and international collaborations have set new benchmarks in the field. With numerous awards, extensive publications, and a commitment to eco-friendly infrastructure, he continues to inspire and innovate, shaping the future of civil engineering globally.

 

VENKATESWARA RAO – Concrete making materials – Best Researcher Award

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VENKATESWARA RAO - Concrete making materials - Best Researcher Award

National Institute of Technology Warangal - India

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS

VENKATESWARA RAO holds a B.Tech. in Civil Engineering from J. N. T. College of Engineering, Kakinada, achieving First Class honors. He earned his M.Tech. in Structural Engineering with Distinction from J. N. T. U, Hyderabad, followed by a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from J. N. T. University, Hyderabad.

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

With 23 years of teaching experience, RAO is currently a Professor at the National Institute of Technology, Warangal. He served as Associate Professor and Assistant Professor at the same institution and previously taught as a Lecturer at V. R. Siddhartha Engineering College, Vijayawada. His expertise spans subjects such as Steel Structures, Mechanics of Materials, Concrete Technology, and Surveying at the B.Tech. level, and Theory of Elasticity and Rehabilitation of Structures at the M.Tech. level.

RESEARCH INTERESTS

RAO's research focuses on Self-Compacting Concrete, Geopolymer Concrete, and Fiber Reinforced Concrete, with a particular emphasis on the durability and innovative applications of these materials.

INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION

He has been selected as a research scientist under the National Scholarship Programme of the Slovak Republic, spending time at the Slovak Academy of Science and Instituto Superior Técnico, Technical University of Lisbon, Portugal, enhancing his research perspectives and international collaboration.

REVIEWER AND ADMINISTRATIVE ROLES

RAO serves as a reviewer for esteemed journals including ACI - Structural and Material Journal, Elsevier - Journal of Building Engineering, Elsevier - Journal of Sustainable materials and Technologies, and SERC - Journal of Structural Engineering. He has held administrative positions such as Associate Dean and Coordinator at NIT Warangal, contributing significantly to research and consultancy activities.

INNOVATIVE TEACHING METHODS

He is known for adopting innovative teaching methods, including preparing PPT presentations for various subjects to enhance learning experiences for students.