Author ORCID Identifier

0009-0009-2483-4126

Author Linked-In Account

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sujitha-magdalene-285701145/

Biosketch

A research-driven civil engineering professional specializing in Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) and sustainable cementitious materials. Possesses strong expertise in developing high-performance and environmentally sustainable concrete systems using industrial by-products and alternative fine aggregates. Research focuses on enhancing the mechanical performance, durability, and microstructural characteristics of UHPC through optimized material selection, fiber reinforcement, and advanced curing techniques.

Professional experience includes work in both academia and industry-oriented research environments, contributing to the development of cost-effective and sustainable concrete mix designs. Current work in a research and development environment involves optimizing concrete formulations, improving product consistency, and reducing the carbon footprint of construction materials through material innovation and laboratory testing.

Demonstrated expertise in cement chemistry, concrete technology, rheology of advanced concrete systems, and microstructural characterization techniques such as SEM, XRD, FTIR, and TGA. Research contributions include multiple publications in SCIE and Scopus indexed journals, focusing on UHPC, fiber-reinforced concrete, and the use of industrial waste materials in sustainable construction.

Research interests include sustainable cementitious materials, durability of concrete, optimization of admixtures for improved performance, rheology and 3D printing of advanced concrete systems, and life-cycle assessment of cement-based materials aligned with global sustainability goals. Experience also includes teaching structural and construction-related subjects and mentoring students in research activities.

Combines strong analytical skills, laboratory expertise, and interdisciplinary research experience to advance innovative solutions in sustainable construction materials and high-performance concrete technologies.

Date of Award

20-5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

School

School of Civil Engineering

Programme

Ph.D.-Doctoral of Philosophy

First Advisor

Dr.B.Karthikeyan

Third Advisor

Sustainable Ultra High Performance Concrete, Industrial Wastes, Non-Metallic Fibers, Accelerated Curing, Fiber Hybridization

Abstract

The demand for sustainable and high-performance construction materials has led to the exploration of alternative fine aggregates and fiber reinforcements for Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC). This study investigates the feasibility of using iron ore tailings (IOT), manufactured sand (MS), and copper slag (CS) as partial replacements for river sand (RS), along with various fiber reinforcements, to enhance mechanical properties, durability, and microstructural integrity in UHPC.

The results indicate that IOT at a 30% replacement level (IOT1) exhibited the highest 56-day compressive strength, outperforming MS and CS. Copper slag was found unsuitable for UHPC due to its lower long-term strength. While both IOT and MS improved UHPC performance, MS demonstrated superior packing density, tensile strength, and impact resistance due to its angularity and rough texture, which enhanced interfacial bonding. Microstructural analysis using SEM, XRD, FTIR and TGA confirmed that MS based mixtures exhibited a more compact structure with reduced porosity and improved hydration, making them more effective than IOT based mixtures.

The study also examined the role of fiber reinforcement, revealing that synthetic fibers significantly enhanced compressive and tensile strength, crack resistance, and durability compared to natural fibers. Among different fibers tested, basalt fiber exhibited the highest flexural and tensile strengths, making it the most effective reinforcement. Furthermore, accelerated curing techniques, particularly hot water and oven curing combined with prolonged water curing, resulted in significant early and long-term strength gains, with C3-H (hot water curing + extended water curing) achieving the highest compressive strength of 133.90 MPa.

These findings highlight MS and IOT as sustainable alternatives to river sand, with MS offering better mechanical performance and durability. The study also confirms that synthetic fiber reinforcement and optimized curing regimes play a crucial role in achieving high-performance UHPC. By promoting the recycling of industrial waste and reducing reliance on natural sand, this research aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Further studies are recommended to assess long-term durability and large-scale applications in infrastructure projects.

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