Associate ProfessorAli Hadigheh

Current Project Opportunities

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Structural application of recycled fibre reinforced polymer (rFRP) composites

Summary of opportunity: The objective of the project is to develop more sustainable infrastructures.

Opportunity synopsis: Carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are being increasingly used in lightweight structures due to their unique combination of high strength and low weight. These superior properties promoted high usage growth rates observed in aerospace, defence, construction, automotive and renewable energy. This research will aim to produce recycled composites for structural applications. Students with a background in material characterisation, experimental, analytical, and/or numerical analyses are encouraged to apply by contacting Dr Ali Hadigheh. 
 

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Structural rehabilitation using natural and synthetic composites

Summary of opportunity: The project aims to investigate the behaviour of FRP-strengthened structures under different extreme loading systems.

Opportunity synopsis: The option to repair/rehabilitate existing structures is on the increase as industry seeks to find cost-effective, yet structurally sound ways of retrofitting structures to their original, and in some cases to beyond their original, strength requirements. This ongoing requirement for more structurally sound structures has driven the development and introduction of advanced composite materials into the civil engineering construction industry. Techniques for strengthening existing structures now include strengthening with fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite applications. This research investigates the potential of synthetic and natural composites in strengthening of infrastructures. Students with a background in experimental, analytical, and/or numerical analyses are encouraged to apply by contacting Dr Ali Hadigheh.

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Structural health monitoring of infrastructures

Summary of opportunity: The project aims to apply advanced technologies for structural health monitoring of infrastructures

Opportunity synopsis: This research will investigate the development of new technologies for monitoring the structural performance of structures. Students with a background in programming and experimental works are encouraged to apply by contacting Dr Ali Hadigheh.  

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Corrosion in infrastructures: Mechanisms, monitoring, mitigation, and impacts

Summary of opportunity: This project investigates various forms of corrosion affecting infrastructure and their impacts on durability and safety. It aims to develop innovative strategies for corrosion prevention and monitoring through interdisciplinary approaches involving materials science, microbiology, and engineering.

Opportunity synopsis: Corrosion poses a significant threat to the longevity and safety of infrastructure across sectors such as construction, water systems, and defence. This project explores the mechanisms of different types of corrosion—including electrochemical, environmental, and microbially induced corrosion (MIC)—and their effects on structural materials. The research integrates advanced material characterisation techniques and microbial analysis to understand corrosion pathways and develop sustainable mitigation strategies. The project is ideal for students interested in infrastructure resilience, environmental engineering, and interdisciplinary research with strong industry relevance.

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Multifunctional and sustainable cementitious composite materials

Summary of opportunity: This project aims to develop multifunctional cementitious composite materials that are both sustainable and high-performing, incorporating recycled and industrial waste to enhance durability and functionality.

Opportunity synopsis:

This project focuses on the development of advanced cementitious composite materials that are both multifunctional and environmentally sustainable. By integrating industrial waste, recycled materials, and innovative additives, the research aims to enhance performance, durability, and additional functionalities such as self-sensing, corrosion resistance, and energy harvesting. The project combines experimental work with material characterisation techniques and microbial technologies to explore novel pathways for sustainable construction. It is well-suited for students interested in materials science, civil engineering, sustainability, and interdisciplinary research with industry relevance.

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Engineered living materials for a sustainable future

Summary of opportunity: Our current production and consumption patterns are linear and result in the exploitation of non-renewable resources that generate a significant amount of waste.

 Opportunity synopsis: This project will develop innovative bio-inspired and sustainable living materials for applications in the building industry, waste management, and upcycling. The project aligns with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals on increasing resource efficiency and reducing waste to sustain natural resources and environments.

Current research team

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Post-doctoral researchers:

• Dr Yunyun Tao
• Dr David Kim (Past)
• Dr Yaning Wei (Past)
• Dr Shuvashis Saha (Past)

Current PhD and MPhil students:

Primary supervisor

• Ms Mumtahina Akhtar (PhD)
• Mr Zan Li (PhD)
• Ms Sidra Siraj (PhD)
• Mr Songnan Li (PhD)
• Mr Yang Yu (PhD)
• Mr Zicheng Huang (PhD)

Second supervisor

• Ms Deepali Gupta (IIT Bombay)
• Mr Abdulrahman Mohammed Alshahri (UniSA)
• Jacob Elmasry

Graduated students:

as primary supervisor

• Dr Tommy Hielscher
• Dr Hamid Fatemi
• Dr Yunyun Tao
• Dr Yaning Wei
• Dr Keyvan Aghabalaei
• Dr Ruken Alac
• Dr Daehee Kim
• Dr Kamal Neupane

as second supervisor

• Dr Arvin Hadlos