Research Statement
My research focuses on advanced infrastructure materials — specifically the design, testing, and optimization of high-performance cementitious composites for long service life. I study how mixture design, curing, and reinforcement strategies influence strength, crack resistance, dimensional stability, and durability in real-world exposure conditions.
I combine large-scale experimental testing with materials characterization to connect mechanisms to performance. My work is grounded in ASTM, ACI, and AASHTO procedures and includes mechanical testing (compressive/flexural strength, fracture behavior, energy absorption), transport and durability evaluation (permeability and related indicators), and fresh-state behavior (rheology, setting, thixotropy for SCC). Characterization tools used across projects include SEM/EDS, XRD, FTIR, TGA, and rheology/image-based analysis.
A core theme across my projects is practical translation: generating clear, implementable guidance for infrastructure stakeholders on mix design, curing, protection systems, and performance troubleshooting.
Research Areas
Advanced cementitious composites
Design, testing, and optimization of high-performance mortars and concretes for infrastructure applications, balancing strength, toughness, and long-term durability.
Fiber-reinforced concrete & shrinkage control
Use of fibrillar cellulose fibers and other reinforcements to control autogenous shrinkage and improve cracking resistance and energy absorption.
Durability, curing & service-life performance
Carbonation curing, permeability control, and durability evaluation (shrinkage, chloride ingress, freeze–thaw, carbonation) guided by ASTM/ACI/AASHTO procedures.
Concrete rheology & placement behavior
Fresh-state characterization of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) including flowability, thixotropy, setting behavior, and placement optimization.
Current Projects
Fiber-reinforced cementitious composites for shrinkage control
Design and testing of mortar and concrete mixes incorporating fibrillar cellulose fibers to reduce autogenous shrinkage, improve cracking resistance, and increase energy absorption capacity.
Carbonation curing regimes for precast and structural concrete
Optimization of curing sequences and exposure conditions to enhance mechanical performance, dimensional stability, and durability indicators, aligned with standard test procedures.
Protective sealers and coating systems for concrete structures
Evaluation of nano-engineered protection systems for bridge decks and substructures, including surface preparation, adhesion, and permeability-related performance to extend service life.
Fresh-state characterization of self-consolidating concrete (SCC)
Method development and validation for setting time and thixotropy measurement (including plate test concepts), with emphasis on workability retention and placement behavior.
Research Impact
The goal of my work is to improve the long-term performance and reliability of concrete infrastructure through test-driven mix design and practical engineering guidance. By linking composition, curing, and reinforcement strategies to measurable performance, my research supports durable, resilient cementitious systems for structural and transportation applications, and helps reduce risk from premature cracking, transport-driven deterioration, and serviceability issues.