East Texas A&M University faculty member Dr. Ayman Elzohairy is helping lead research that could transform the future of construction through the development of stronger, more sustainable concrete materials.

Elzohairy, associate professor in the Department of Engineering and Technology, is serving as a co-principal investigator on a $249,373 Research Excellence Fund (REF) Collaborative Discovery Grant awarded to a research team from Texas A&M University-Texarkana, East Texas A&M University and Tarleton State University.

Led by principal investigator Dr. Hesham Elemam from A&M-Texarkana, the yearlong project, titled “Bio-Enhanced Carbon-Negative Geopolymer Concrete Incorporating Nano-Coated Carbon Nanofibers,” aims to create a stronger, longer-lasting and lower-carbon alternative to traditional concrete. Researchers will combine expertise in civil engineering, nanotechnology and sustainable construction materials to develop innovative building materials that can reduce environmental impact while improving infrastructure durability.

“For readers who aren’t engineers, traditional cement production creates a major environmental challenge, generating roughly 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions,” Elzohairy said. “This project aims to develop a stronger, longer-lasting, self-healing and lower-carbon concrete material that reduces pollution while improving the durability and lifespan of roads, bridges, buildings and other infrastructure.”

As a co-principal investigator, Elzohairy will contribute expertise in construction materials, concrete behavior, durability evaluation and sustainable infrastructure materials. East Texas A&M students will also have opportunities to participate in research activities, including laboratory testing, data analysis and advanced material characterization.

“Developing stronger, lower-carbon concrete could significantly reduce the environmental footprint of the construction industry while improving infrastructure resilience,” Elzohairy said.

The grant builds on the department's commitment to hands-on learning and applied research. Earlier this year, East Texas A&M construction engineering students competed at the American Concrete Institute Spring 2026 Convention, where they designed, fabricated and tested concrete specimens against teams from universities across the country under Elzohairy's mentorship.

East Texas A&M's Department of Engineering and Technology offers programs in engineering and technology management while emphasizing experiential learning, research and innovative solutions to real-world challenges. Through projects such as this collaborative research effort, students gain opportunities to work alongside faculty on emerging technologies that address critical infrastructure and sustainability needs.