::SUT Shortlisted for THE Awards Asia 2025 in STEM Research Category::

 

Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) has been shortlisted for the THE Awards Asia 2025 in the category of Research Project of the Year: STEM. The entry, titled "Lightweight Engineered Aggregate from Polystyrene Foam Waste for Lightweight Concrete Product Applications," showcases an innovative upcycling strategy for construction materials.

 

 

Led by Assistant Professor Dr. Utai Meekum from the School of Polymer Engineering, the project transforms polystyrene (PS) foam waste into lightweight engineered aggregates. These aggregates, produced through a double-coating process involving epoxy adhesive and fly ash, are cured to create a durable material suitable for lightweight concrete blocks. The resulting blocks demonstrate mechanical properties comparable to commercial products and require no special cement, making them highly practical for construction applications.

 

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in Macau on April 22, 2025.

 

 

Project details: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWTZWgWmvqg