About Sai Akshay Ponduru
Sai Akshay Ponduru is a doctoral candidate in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology. He embarked on his academic journey at Missouri S&T in August 2017 as a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in Chemical Engineering. Recognizing his passion for research and a desire to delve deeper into materials science, Sai Akshay transitioned to the Materials Science and Engineering department in 2020 to pursue a Ph.D. program.
Sai Akshay Ponduru’s research primarily focuses on the development of carbon-energy-efficient construction materials, specifically high alumina cement. By formulating innovative mixtures, he aims to reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional construction practices. A key aspect of his approach involves replacing more than half of the cement used in construction with supplementary cementitious materials like fly ash and slag. Sai Akshay also incorporates geologically-sourced materials such as limestone and quartz into his formulations to further enhance the sustainability of the materials. Through these sustainable practices, he strives to create environmentally friendly alternatives that contribute to a more sustainable construction industry.