Dr Huang is the first academic at the University to win the award and she and her team, in partnership with Twincon Ltd (a Sheffield based tyre recycling company), have developed techniques that turn low-value tyre wire into a high-value product to replace virgin steel fibre reinforcement in concrete.
It is heartening to know that I am the first academic to have won this type of award at the University and there is satisfaction in knowing that all our efforts finally paid off. The help I received from the Faculty of Engineering Research & Innovation Hub was of real value. The support I received specifically from Dr Chipasa who made changes with suggestions was extremely important and I would encourage other academics to get support from the Engineering Hub on their bid preparation.
Dr Shan-Shan Huang
Senior Lecturer in Structural Engineering
This Reused Tyre Polymer Fibre (RTPF) product is the first of its kind to be developed in an Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) country and the research team are keen to transfer their knowledge to a country that will benefit from it.
The new technology could potentially ensure the safety of buildings in the event of earthquakes or fire as well as significantly reducing waste, the use of virgin raw materials and create a healthier environment, wealth and jobs for Brazilian people as well as improving the health and safety of employees in the tyre recycling industry.
This award is fantastic news for Dr Huang and her team. The crux of what we do is support researchers with their grant applications and myself and the Hub are delighted to have been a part of Dr Huang’s success.
Dr Kangala Chipasa
Faculty Business Development Manager
Funding is generated from Innovate UK who manages the Newton Fund, which uses science and innovation partnerships to promote the economic and social welfare of partner countries. This Government aid is designed to support developing countries currently on the ODA list to overcome global challenges through UK research collaboration.