Solid waste: US Consulate encourages local institute’s tie-up with American universities

The initiative follows the institute’s proposals on advanced cementitious materials and concrete technologies aimed at addressing challenges faced by nuclear infrastructure worldwide, including the deterioration of concrete caused by prolonged radiation exposure.

Its founders Dr N. Bhanumathidas and N. Kalidas, who have worked extensively in the field of blended cement concrete, have proposed the development of irradiated cementitious composite materials using fly ash and rice husk ash. According to the institute, the technology has the potential to improve material strength while enhancing the utilisation of industrial and agricultural by-products.

The institute has also suggested the use of irradiated materials as alternatives to silica fume and said the technology could contribute to improving resource efficiency and supporting rural economic activities linked to rice husk processing.

To advance the research, the institute has identified the advanced test reactor at Idaho National Laboratory for irradiation studies and is exploring academic collaborations to facilitate access to research infrastructure.

The institute also highlighted its nano concrete (NAC) technology, introduced in 2010, which was developed without coarse aggregates. It believes the material could have applications in specialised infrastructure, including radiation-shielding structures.

During her visit to Visakhapatnam for the Google Data Centre groundbreaking ceremony on April 28, US consul general Laura Williams interacted with the institute’s founders and advised them to present their proposals for potential Indo-US scientific collaboration.

The institute said the discussions explored opportunities for cooperation in research, innovation and technology development, and acknowledged the role of bilateral initiatives such as the Indo-US science and technology forum in promoting scientific partnerships.