Abdulaziz A. Kurdi - sustainable construction materials - Outstanding Scientist Award

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology - Saudi Arabia

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

RESEARCH & INNOVATION 🔬

Abdulaziz A. Kurdi is a pioneering researcher focused on advanced materials and manufacturing, currently leading the Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials & Manufacturing at the University of Cambridge. His work includes developing novel graphene-based electrodes for solar energy applications and advancing 3D printing of composite materials for aerospace. His research contributions aim to support Saudi Arabia’s long-term strategic ambitions in sustainable and innovative technologies.

SMART CONSTRUCTION SOLUTIONS 🧱

As the principal investigator for the Al Diriyah project, Abdulaziz led the design and development of a fully automated production line for Adobe bricks, significantly increasing their capacity and quality. His efforts in preserving archaeological sites through innovative coating materials have helped protect valuable heritage sites from environmental damage, showcasing his commitment to merging technology with cultural preservation.

SUSTAINABILITY & ENERGY EFFICIENCY 🌍

In the Smart Walls project, Abdulaziz focused on integrating Phase Change Materials (PCMs) into building walls to enhance energy efficiency. His research is aimed at reducing energy consumption in buildings by incorporating sustainable materials. This project has gained attention from major industry players, including Saudi Aramco, and presents promising opportunities for future implementation in construction.

INNOVATIVE MATERIALS DEVELOPMENT 🏗️

A key part of his research is the development of Artificial Palm Wood (APW), a novel product created from agricultural and plastic waste. This eco-friendly substitute for traditional wood has the potential to revolutionize building materials, especially in regions where natural resources are scarce. Abdulaziz has applied for a patent on this invention, reinforcing his position as a leader in sustainable innovation.

LEADERSHIP IN RESEARCH 🏆

With extensive experience in project management and team leadership, Abdulaziz has been instrumental in overseeing technical teams for various initiatives. His roles range from managing production lines to leading scientific equipment design projects. His strong leadership ensures that projects are executed efficiently, while also fostering innovation and teamwork.

COMMITTEE ENGAGEMENT 📋

Abdulaziz is an active committee member in several key national and international initiatives, including KACST’s Strategic Innovation Program and the Saudi Green Strategy. His contributions to advanced manufacturing techniques, energy efficiency, and industry regulations make him a valuable advisor in shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s industrial landscape.

EDUCATION & MENTORSHIP 🎓

In addition to his research, Abdulaziz is dedicated to teaching and mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers. He continuously develops innovative instructional methods and guides students through complex research projects. His role as an educator ensures the transfer of knowledge and fosters the development of future industry leaders.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Micro-Scale Deformation Aspects of Additively Fabricated Stainless Steel 316L under Compression
Authors: A. Kurdi, A. Degnah, T. Tabbakh, H. Alnaser, A.K. Basak
Year: 2024
Journal: Materials, 17(2), 439

Role of Precipitation and Solute Segregation on Micro-Scale Deformation of Additively Manufactured Inconel 718
Authors: A. Degnah, T. Tabbakh, A. Kurdi, A.K. Basak
Year: 2023
Journal: Materials Science and Engineering: A, 887, 145762

Microstructural and Nanoindentation Investigation on the Laser Powder Bed Fusion Stainless Steel 316L
Authors: A. Kurdi, T. Tabbakh, A.K. Basak
Year: 2023
Journal: Materials, 16(17), 5933

Coronary Stent Fracture and Application of Interactive Design: A Narrative Review
Authors: A. Kurdi, A.M. Alotaibi, T. Tabbakh, B. Alkahlan
Year: 2023
Journal: International Journal on Interactive Design and Manufacturing, 17(4), pp. 1459–1473

Investigation into the Microstructure and Hardness of Additively Manufactured (3D-Printed) Inconel 718 Alloy
Authors: A. Kurdi, A. Aldoshan, F. Alshabouna, T. Tabbakh, A.K. Basak
Year: 2023
Journal: Materials, 16(6), 2383

Lucia Ferrari - Sustainability of construction materials - Best Researcher Award

University of Bologna - Italy

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

LUCIA FERRARI: MATERIALS INNOVATOR 🏗️

Lucia Ferrari is currently a Junior Assistant Professor at the University of Bologna, Italy, specializing in Civil, Chemical, Environmental, and Materials Engineering. With a strong academic background in physics and construction chemistry, she has merged her industry expertise and academic research to innovate sustainable materials for construction, focusing on lowering environmental impacts and developing green technologies for the future of building materials.

EXPERT IN GREEN MATERIALS 🌱

Ferrari’s research focuses on eco-sustainable construction materials, especially those that reduce carbon emissions. After 9 years at the CHRYSO R&D center, where she led projects to develop low-carbon cement technologies, she transitioned to academia. Her work at the University of Bologna explores cutting-edge methods for recycling materials, aiming to create durable, low-carbon alternatives that contribute to sustainable construction practices.

RESEARCH ON CEMENT TECHNOLOGY 🧪

Lucia has made significant contributions to the understanding of cementitious materials, particularly through her work on superplasticizers and alternative binders. By studying the physical-chemical properties of polymers and cement, she has developed new products that enhance cement performance while reducing CO2 emissions. Her projects have had a profound impact on improving cement plant efficiency and promoting the use of industrial waste in construction.

LEADERSHIP IN R&D TEAMS 👩‍🔬

Throughout her career, Ferrari has led several research teams, including managing CHRYSO’s Activation/Acceleration platform. She supervised engineers, technicians, and students, guiding research on new admixtures and low-carbon binders. Her ability to coordinate teams, manage projects, and contribute to innovation in construction materials makes her a respected leader in both industry and academia.

FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY 🌍

Lucia’s academic projects, like the study of low-carbon cements, reflect her commitment to addressing the environmental challenges of the construction industry. She explores the influence of porosity and material composition on durability and aims to incorporate sustainable practices in every aspect of her research. Ferrari’s work is driving the construction industry toward greener, more efficient materials that reduce the environmental footprint of modern buildings.

CONFERENCE CONTRIBUTIONS 📢

Lucia Ferrari is an active participant in international scientific conferences, sharing her research on sustainable alternatives to traditional cement. Her presentations on the incorporation of recycled ceramics into limestone-calcined clay cement and the role of calcined clay in reducing cement’s carbon footprint highlight her dedication to innovation. Ferrari’s work not only contributes to academic discourse but also promotes practical solutions for industry-wide sustainability.

COLLABORATION WITH INDUSTRY PARTNERS 🤝

Ferrari has a rich history of collaboration with industry, including her work with HeidelbergCement and CHRYSO. By working closely with both academic and industrial partners, she bridges the gap between research and real-world application, ensuring that her innovations have a tangible impact on construction practices. Her collaborative efforts continue to push forward the development of sustainable building materials globally.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Title: Reaction of Clinker Surfaces Investigated with Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Ferrari, L., Kaufmann, J., Winnefeld, F., Plank, J.
Journal: Construction and Building Materials
Year: 2012

Title: Characterization of Polycarboxylate-Ether Based Superplasticizer on Cement Clinker Surfaces
Authors: Ferrari, L., Bernard, L., Deschner, F., Winnefeld, F., Plank, J.
Journal: Journal of the American Ceramic Society
Year: 2012

Title: Multi-Method Approach to Study Influence of Superplasticizers on Cement Suspensions
Authors: Ferrari, L., Kaufmann, J., Winnefeld, F., Plank, J.
Journal: Cement and Concrete Research
Year: 2011

Title: Force Measurements by AFM on Clinker Surfaces and Model Systems in Aqueous Solutions Containing Superplasticizer
Authors: Ferrari, L., Haha, M.B., Kaufmann, J., Winnefeld, F.
Conference: 32nd International Conference on Cement Microscopy
Year: 2010