Ed-Dariy Yasmina | Concrete | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ed-Dariy Yasmina | Concrete | Research Excellence Award

Assistant Professor | National School of Architecture | Morocco

Assist. Prof. Dr. Yasmina ED-DARIY is an accomplished researcher in civil and environmental engineering, with extensive expertise in structural analysis and design, construction materials, geotechnical studies, building acoustics, environmental impact assessments, thermal and energy efficiency, and the strengthening of reinforced concrete using fiber-based composites. Her research has focused on sustainable construction and innovative concrete reinforcement methods, particularly the use of natural fibers such as jute for enhancing the mechanical performance of concrete members. She has contributed significantly to the understanding of the effects of alkali treatments and curing conditions on jute fiber-reinforced concrete, as well as the behavior of concrete cylinders and square columns strengthened with jute fiber-reinforced polymer (JFRP) composites. Her publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at international conferences reflect her commitment to advancing knowledge in concrete strengthening techniques using both synthetic and natural composites. Beyond her technical research, Dr. ED-DARIY actively engages in community and professional initiatives, having founded the Cultural Club at Centre Ajial and the Civil Engineering Club at FST Tangier, and served as Secretary-General of the Astronomy Association of Tangier. She has also organized outreach programs and events for orphaned children, demonstrating a strong commitment to social responsibility and the promotion of science in society. Her work exemplifies excellence in research, technical innovation, and societal impact, making her a highly deserving candidate for recognition through prestigious awards in research and innovation.

Profile: Scopus  | Google Scholar | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

  • Ed-Dariy, Y., Lamdour, N., Cherradi, T., Rotaru, A., Barbuta, M., & Mihai, P. (2020). Effect of alkali treatment of jute fibers on the compressive strength of normal-strength concrete members strengthened with JFRP composites. 淡江理工學刊, 23(4), 677–685.

  • Ed-Dariy, Y., Lamdouar, N., Cherrad, T., Rotaru, A., Barbuta, M., & Mihai, P. (2021). The influence of the curing conditions on the behavior of jute fibers reinforced concrete cylinders. Periodica Polytechnica Civil Engineering, 65(4), 1162–1173.

  • Ed-Dariy, Y., Lamdour, N., Cherradi, T., Rotaru, A., Barbuta, M., Mihai, P., … (2020). The behavior of concrete cylinders confined by JFRP composites: Effect of KOH solution. In 5th World Congress on Civil, Structural, and Environmental Engineering.

  • Ed-Dariy, Y., Lamdouar, N., Cherradi, T., Rotaru, A., Barbuta, M., … (2020). Experimental investigation of the effects of NaOH and KOH solution on the behavior of concrete square columns reinforced by JFRP composites. In 5th World Congress on Civil, Structural, and Environmental Engineering.

  • Ed-Dariy, Y., El Bhiri, B., & Deifalla, A. (2025). A review of concrete strengthening methods using synthetic and natural composites. Engineering Proceedings, 112(1), 35.

Harsha Sai | Concrete | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Harsha Sai | Concrete | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Harsha Sai | KL University | India

Mr. Harsha Sai is a dedicated structural engineering researcher whose work reflects strong technical depth, practical relevance, and a clear focus on advancing sustainable and high-performance construction materials. His research contributions span hybrid fiber–reinforced concrete, fly ash–based material optimization, GFRP and steel reinforcement behavior, and structural performance enhancement in diverse conditions. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications addressing mechanical behavior, flexural performance, and material durability, including studies on M40 concrete incorporating hybrid fibers and fly ash, comparative flexural analysis of GFRP and steel rebars in modified concrete mixes, and performance assessments of building designs on complex terrains. His work demonstrates a commitment to improving structural reliability, sustainability, and cost-effective engineering solutions. Alongside his research, he has presented at conferences and actively engaged in professional development through advanced software certifications and workshops related to sustainable construction, corrosion-free infrastructure, and emerging technologies such as 3D-printed concrete. He is proficient in advanced structural design and analysis tools including AutoCAD, ETABS, REVIT, and STAAD.Pro, enabling seamless integration between analytical research and practical engineering application. His experience in design consultancy, secondary steel detailing, and infrastructure component development further strengthens his ability to translate research insights into real-world engineering solutions. Through consistent scholarly output, hands-on project involvement, and participation in industry knowledge-sharing platforms, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to contributing to modern structural engineering challenges. His profile reflects an evolving researcher with the capability to drive innovation, support sustainable development goals, and contribute meaningful advancements to the field of structural engineering.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

Khan, A. R., Rajesh, B., Prakash, B. J. P., & Varma, V. H. S. C. H. S. (2019). Design of a gravity dam. IJRAR – International Journal of Research and Analytical Reviews, 6(1), 4.

Sai, V. H., Lingeshwaran, N., Pratheba, S., & L. B. V. (2025). Enhanced mechanical and flexural performance of M40 concrete with hybrid fibers and fly ash replacement. Procedia Structural Integrity, 70, 509–516.

Vudata Harsha Sai, P. J., Lingeshwaran, N., Prasanna, P. K., & George Fernandez Raj, A. (2025). Flexural behavior of GFRP rebars and steel rebars with polypropylene fibers and fly ash-based concrete. Research on Engineering Structures and Materials, 17.

Navaneeth, L. N. V. H. S., Sravani, C., Koteswara Rao, & Thiyagarajan. (2025). Optimizing building design on sloping terrain: A comparative analysis of G+10 storied pre-engineered buildings on 10-degree slope and flat ground. International Journal of Materials, Mechanics, Mechatronics and Engineering, 2025.

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.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar

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.

profile

scopus

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.