The Department of Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment is proud to recognize Christopher Burns for his outstanding achievement at the CI and CRC Conference in San Antonio. Christopher presented his undergraduate research poster titled “Optimizing Biochar Fineness for Enhanced Workability and Strength in Cement Mortar” and earned Runner-Up in the Undergraduate Research Poster Presentation Competition. His research, conducted under the supervision of Dr. Sharareh Shirzad, investigates how biochar particle size influences the workability and mechanical performance of cement mortar, contributing to the development of more sustainable construction materials.
The department also congratulates Michael Ayiku, M.S. Candidate, who presented his graduate research poster titled “Influence of Dry and Saturated Biochar on Concrete Performance and Long-Term Strength Development.” His work examines how the moisture condition of biochar affects concrete performance and long-term strength development.
Additionally, Justus Waceke, M.S. Candidate, presented his graduate research poster titled "Mass Timber as a Solution to Industrialized Supply Chains." We are so proud of our STBE students!
All three presentations highlight the department’s commitment to student research, sustainable infrastructure materials, and innovative construction technologies.
Undergraduate Research STBE Student
Undergraduate Research STBE Student