Ph.D. student Devin Kumar has been selected for a $5,000 student scholarship from the Georgia Chapter of the American Concrete Institute (ACI).
Kumar, a graduate student in the Structural Engineering Mechanics and Materials (SEMM) group, is co-advised by Professor Kimberly Kurtis and Associate Professor Lauren Stewart.
Kumar has worked with the Georgia Department of Transportation on a research project focused on mitigating Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR) in concrete. His research includes the examination of various concrete repair technologies, such as silane sprays and concrete resurfacing, to promote the sustainability of concrete structures.
“Devin's work has contributed significantly to our understanding of this phenomenon and methods to mitigate damage, through his studies involving full-scale concrete specimens,” Kurtis said.
Kurtis also commended Kumar's passion for concrete along with his diverse portfolio of interests, including powerlifting, piano, and podcasting.
“Concrete is a material with an ancient history and ubiquitous modern use,” Kurtis said. “Bringing in new researchers with unique life experiences and perspectives brings a vibrancy and creativity that is necessary to bring new advances in the field.”