Alper Bideci | Building Materials | Editorial Board Member

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Alper Bideci | Building Materials | Editorial Board Member

Architecture | Düzce University | Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Alper Bideci is a leading researcher in construction materials, recognized for his extensive contributions to lightweight concrete technology, polymer-coated aggregates, sustainable building materials, and the performance optimization of cement-based composites. His scholarly work spans mechanical behavior, thermal performance, durability enhancement, fracture energy, shrinkage, creep, and microstructural characterization of advanced concretes, supported by experimental testing and image-processing-based evaluation methods. Dr. Bideci has published numerous high-impact articles in SCI-Expanded journals, including significant studies on polyester-coated pumice aggregates, fiber-reinforced calcium aluminate concrete under elevated temperatures, homogeneity assessment in EPS-integrated mortars, environmental performance of insulated façade panels using life cycle assessment, and the influence of hemp fibers, waste tyre additives, and polymer modifications on strength and fracture properties. His investigations have advanced understanding of eco-efficient composites, permeability control, color and structural homogeneity, and the integration of industrial by-products in construction materials. Dr. Bideci’s research additionally encompasses polymer coatings for lightweight aggregates, the structural behavior of self-compacting concretes containing waste materials, and performance assessments of historical brick and concrete systems through experimental methods. He has led and contributed to funded research projects on polymer-coated aggregates and historical building materials and has achieved substantial international recognition, with over 350 citations reflecting his global impact. His consistent achievements have been honored repeatedly with the Scientific Encouragement Awards of the Scientific and Technical Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK), recognizing his sustained advancements in high-performance, durable, and sustainable construction materials.

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Featured Publications

Bideci, A., Sallı Bideci, Ö., & Ashour, A. (2023). Mechanical and thermal properties of lightweight concrete produced with polyester-coated pumice aggregate. Construction and Building Materials, 394.

Sallı Bideci, Ö., Yilmaz, H., Gencel, O., Bideci, A., Çomak, B., & Nodehi, M. (2023). Fiber-reinforced lightweight calcium aluminate cement-based concrete: Effect of exposure to elevated temperatures. Sustainability, 15, 4722.

Çomak, B., Aykanat, B., Sallı Bideci, Ö., Bideci, A. (2022). Determination of homogeneity index of cementitious composites produced with EPS beads by image processing techniques. Computers and Concrete, 29, 107–115.

Çomak, B., Bideci, A., Aykanat, B., & Sallı Bideci, Ö. (2021). Determination of color homogeneity by image processing in cement-based mortars. Romanian Journal of Materials, 51, 552–557.

Yılmaz, E., Arslan, H., & Bideci, A. (2019). Environmental performance analysis of insulated composite facade panels using life cycle assessment (LCA). Construction and Building Materials, 202, 806–813.

Mostafa Hassani Niaki | Polymer concrete | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mostafa Hassani Niaki | Polymer concrete | Best Researcher Award

Research associate at University of Mazandaran, Iran

Dr. Mostafa Hassani Niaki is a distinguished researcher and mechanical engineer specializing in applied design, composites, and polymer concrete. With a strong foundation in mechanical engineering, he has contributed extensively to material characterization, deep learning applications in composites, and the development of high-strength construction materials. His research integrates artificial intelligence with experimental mechanics, enhancing the understanding of polymer composites and nanocomposites.

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Education

Dr. Niaki earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (Applied Design) from Semnan University in 2017, focusing on the synthesis and mechanical improvement of polymer concrete composites with nanomaterials. He completed his M.S. at Islamic Azad University of Semnan, where he optimized and designed a novel micro/nano gripper. His B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (Solid Mechanics) was obtained from the University of Mazandaran, where he analyzed artificial knee mechanisms.

Experience

Dr. Niaki currently serves as a Research Associate at Mazandaran University, focusing on advanced mechanical materials and AI applications in composites. He is the Managing Director of Teb Gostar Daris, overseeing the development of innovative mechanical solutions. His previous roles include Planning Manager at Atipay Medical Co. and Sales Manager at Nam-Avaran Atieh Salamat, where he contributed to strategic development and product innovation in the medical and engineering sectors.

Research Interests

His research explores artificial intelligence in composite materials, particularly deep neural networks for predicting mechanical properties. He specializes in polymer and nanocomposite reinforcement, optimizing mechanical and thermal characteristics. His expertise extends to experimental mechanics, MEMS, and mechanical design, integrating CAD and finite element analysis to advance structural composites and micro-actuation technologies.

Awards & Recognitions

Dr. Niaki has received an Elsevier Certificate of Reviewing for his contributions to the Journal of Building Engineering, a Q1 journal with a high impact factor. He holds multiple technical certifications, including ISO 9001:2008 and SolidWorks Mechanical Design. His research has influenced industrial applications, earning recognition for innovation in polymer concrete and fracture mechanics.

Publications

Dr. Niaki has authored numerous high-impact journal articles and a book on advanced polymer concretes. Below are some of his key publications:

Niaki, M. H. (2024). “Implementation of Deep Learning Method to Determine Dimensionless Values of Stress Intensity Factors and T-Stress of ENDB Specimen.” Fatigue & Fracture of Engineering Materials & Structures.

Niaki, M. H., Moghadasi, R., Ramzali, M. (2024). “Mechanical and Electronic Behavior of TMDC Nanotubes and Monolayers: Molecular Simulations.” Molecular Simulation/Journal of Experimental Nanoscience.

Niaki, M. H., Abedi, S. H., Ahangari, M. G. (2024). “Mechanical, Thermal, and Morphological Studies of POSS Reinforced PA6/NBR Composites.” Polymer-Plastics Technology and Materials.

Niaki, M. H., Aghdam, A. A. (2023). “Effect of Basalt Fibers on Fracture Properties of Nanoclay Reinforced Polymer Concrete After Elevated Temperatures.” Journal of Building Engineering.

Niaki, M. H., Pashaian, M. (2023). “Predicting Geometry Factors and Normalized T‐Stress of Cracked Disk Specimens Using Deep Learning.” Fatigue & Fracture of Engineering Materials & Structures.

Niaki, M. H., Ahangari, M. G., Pashaian, M. (2023). “Experimental Assessment of Deep Learning in Predicting Mechanical Properties of Polymer Composites.” Journal of Building Engineering.

Niaki, M. H. (2022). “A Material-Independent Deep Learning Model to Predict the Tensile Strength of Polymer Concrete.” Composites Communications.

Conclusion

Dr. Mostafa Hassani Niaki is a highly accomplished researcher whose work in mechanical engineering, materials science, and artificial intelligence applications in composites has had a significant impact. His extensive publication record, innovative research, academic mentorship, and industrial contributions make him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions continue to push the boundaries of engineering and materials science, making him a worthy recipient of this prestigious recognition.