• Carbon Net-Zero Concrete: I successfully integrated biochar and black carbon, derived from biomass and industrial CO₂ emissions, to create a concrete formulation near net-zero carbon footprint.

• Decarbonization of Concrete: I have led and supported three projects focused on reducing concrete’s carbon emissions. This work involves using carbon sequestrant materials, byproducts, novel supplementary cementitious materials, and alternative cements.
  • Calcined Clays as Alternative Supplementary Cementitious Material and Precursor for Geopolymer Binders in Transportation Infrastructure
  • Low-Cost Sustainable Engineered Geopolymer Composites (EGCs) for Repair and New Construction of Transportation Infrastructure
  • Development of Ultra-High Performance Engineered Geopolymer Composites (UHP-EGCs)

• Flexible-Concrete: I’ve developed an engineered cementitious composite with a strain capacity >4%. The new composite has fast hardening characteristics (final setting time 30 minutes compared to normal concrete with 8+ hours).

• Lab Development: I designed and established a complete concrete mixing laboratory from the ground up, managing a budget of over $80,000 to handle all materials, supplies, and operations.
• Chitosan Production:  I valorized the waste from the Ecuadorian shrimp processing industry in order to obtain chitosan, for the production of active biodegradable films in a blend with polylactide. Learn more about the project here: INEDITA Program | FIMCP