Peng Gai-Fei | Structural materials | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Beijing Jiaotong University

Peng Gai-Fei is an accomplished scholar specializing in high-performance and high-strength concrete, with extensive expertise in fire resistance, frost durability, and concrete recycling. Over decades of academic and professional service, contributions have spanned teaching, research, and industry collaborations. Engagement in numerous committees of prestigious societies reflects leadership in the field. Research has consistently addressed both theoretical and practical aspects of concrete performance, from understanding damage mechanisms to proposing innovative engineering solutions. The body of work has influenced international practices, particularly in structural safety, durability, and sustainable materials use within the civil engineering domain.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Peng Gai-Fei completed formal academic training in Building & Construction Materials, Materials Science, and Civil Engineering from leading institutions in China and Hong Kong. This solid educational background provided a foundation for groundbreaking research in advanced concrete technologies. Each academic phase built on the previous, integrating knowledge of materials at both fundamental and applied levels. Such multidisciplinary expertise has facilitated unique insights into structural materials’ behavior under extreme conditions. The academic journey has been marked by a consistent drive toward solving engineering challenges, which has shaped a distinguished career in research and teaching in civil engineering.

Professional Experience

Peng Gai-Fei has held significant academic and engineering positions, including roles at Tsinghua University, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Northern Jiaotong University, and Beijing Jiaotong University. Professional development began as an Assistant Engineer, progressed through lecturer and associate professor positions, and culminated in the current role as a Professor. This progression demonstrates a commitment to both academic growth and the practical application of engineering knowledge. International collaborations and examination of doctoral research reflect a recognition of expertise on a global scale. Contributions span curriculum development, research supervision, and professional training, solidifying an influential presence in engineering education and innovation.

Research Interest

Peng Gai-Fei’s research focuses on the high-temperature properties of high-strength and high-performance concrete, particularly in identifying fire damage mechanisms and developing fire resistance strategies. Additional interests include designing frost-resistant concrete for challenging environments, enhancing shotcrete for tunneling, and understanding crack growth in various concrete types. Work also extends to recycling concrete to promote sustainability, and investigating workability to improve construction efficiency. These research themes bridge fundamental science and applied engineering, resulting in technical measures and materials innovations that advance the field. The approach combines laboratory experimentation, field applications, and theoretical modeling to deliver impactful engineering solutions.

Award And Honor

Recognition for Peng Gai-Fei’s work is reflected through leadership roles in national and international engineering societies. Fellowships, committee memberships, and editorial positions highlight sustained contributions to the advancement of concrete technology. Participation in drafting influential Chinese construction standards demonstrates the trust placed in technical judgment and expertise. Invitations to evaluate doctoral theses at renowned universities further confirm a respected position within the academic community. Membership in global organizations such as the American Concrete Institute and The Concrete Society (UK) underscores an international reputation. These honors signify a career built on excellence, innovation, and commitment to advancing civil engineering practices.

Research Skill

Peng Gai-Fei possesses a diverse range of research skills, including experimental design, advanced materials characterization, and field performance assessment of concrete structures. Expertise includes simulating high-temperature and frost conditions, analyzing microstructural changes, and evaluating mechanical properties post-exposure. Competence in applying rheological models to assess workability enhances practical construction outcomes. The ability to link material science principles with large-scale engineering applications has resulted in optimized material formulations and construction methods. Familiarity with both traditional and modern testing techniques allows for a holistic approach to problem-solving. These skills have underpinned numerous impactful studies that have informed engineering standards and construction practices globally.

Publications

Peng Gai-Fei has authored an extensive portfolio of publications in internationally recognized journals and conference proceedings. Research topics include fire resistance of reactive powder concrete, durability of ultra-high performance concrete, and the influence of thermal shock on fiber-reinforced concrete. Other notable works explore ecological approaches to concrete technology, frost resistance enhancements, and recycled material applications. Contributions often combine rigorous experimentation with practical engineering implications, ensuring relevance to industry stakeholders. Many publications have become reference materials for both researchers and practitioners. The diversity and depth of published work reflect a career dedicated to advancing concrete science and engineering through systematic, evidence-based research.

Title: Effect of calcined red mud on the mechanical properties and microstructure of ultra-high performance concrete
Journal: Construction and Building Materials, 2025

Title: Effects of multi-scale hybrid fibre reinforcement on the mechanical properties of ultra-high-performance concrete
Journal: Magazine of Concrete Research, 2025

Title: Novel cementless ultra-high performance concrete using calcium carbide residue as activator by the aid of combined curing
Journal: Materials and Structures (Matériaux et Constructions), 2025

Title: Coating steel fiber for both CO₂ capturing and strengthening of ultra-high performance concrete
Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production, 2024

Conclusion

Peng Gai-Fei’s career exemplifies the integration of academic excellence, innovative research, and professional leadership in civil engineering. A lifelong dedication to improving the performance, durability, and sustainability of concrete has yielded contributions that influence both national standards and international practices. Extensive publication, mentorship, and committee service demonstrate a commitment to knowledge dissemination and community engagement. The body of work not only advances technical understanding but also addresses pressing engineering challenges. By bridging fundamental research with real-world applications, the career serves as a model of how engineering science can drive practical, impactful solutions for the built environment.