Dr. Saini earned her Ph.D. in civil engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, where she specialized in structural engineering and sustainable building materials. Her research focuses on environmentally friendly and durable building materials, including natural fiber-reinforced composites. At Fraunhofer WKI, Dr. Saini will work on the research project “Fire-resistant bio-composites from agricultural waste to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

The construction industry is responsible for 13 to 15 percent of annual greenhouse gas emissions. In many countries, the burning of crop residues also contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, thereby exacerbating the climate and health crises. To promote sustainable development, it is crucial to explore strategies that reduce both emissions from the construction industry and those caused by the burning of crop residues.

The use of agricultural waste in bio-composites as a substitute for conventional building materials is a promising solution for reducing air pollution, minimizing construction and agricultural waste, and combating climate change. However, the potential applications of bio-composites for structural reinforcement, building components, and as an alternative to wood-based materials have not yet been sufficiently researched.

Furthermore, there are few standard procedures and design guidelines for bio-composites and their behavior under extreme hazard conditions. Overcoming these limitations is crucial to preventing catastrophic failures and realizing the potential of bio-composites for sustainable civil infrastructure.

Dr. Saini’s project aims to develop novel bio-composite components that remain sufficiently stable and functional even under fire and extreme weather conditions. The proposed bio-composites are made from agricultural waste, such as wheat straw, rice straw, flax, and hemp, and reinforced with polymeric and even bio-based binders. The bio-composites best suited for modular structures will be identified based on their performance and environmental impact.

Dr. Saini aims to expand research on bio-composites made from agricultural waste to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to affordable housing. Researchers led by Professor Dr. Libo Yan, Head of Department at Fraunhofer WKI, will support Dr. Saini in her research activities.