Academic interests
My research focuses on materials for energy-efficient buildings, particularly self-leveling mortars (SLM) that incorporate Phase Change Materials (PCMs) for thermal energy storage in floor-heating systems.
As a Doctoral Research Fellow at HiØ and a PhD candidate at Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena (UPCT), I have also contributed to the EU-funded SNUG project, where we developed a PCM-enhanced self-leveling mortar (SLM) in a lab and at pilot scale, which paved the way for the construction of a field lab called Green Research Hub, where we can examine the thermal and energy performance of the PCM mortars as well as their effect on the indoor climate. This also serves as a platform for current and future floor testing and research. Moreover, we have installed the end-product PCM-enhanced floor on one floor at the Byhaven apartment in Kråkerøy, as part of the product demonstration.
My work involves developing mortar formulations and investigating their flow behavior, mechanical properties, and thermal performance. I am particularly interested in balancing thermal energy storage with the material properties required for practical construction applications.
My interest in rheology grew from my background in fluid mechanics and evolved into a focus on how cementitious material composition influences flow behavior and structural build-up over time. My research examines how phase change materials affect the viscosity, shear-thinning behavior, and workability of self-leveling mortars. I aim to connect rheological measurements and modeling with practical mix design to develop materials that meet both processing and performance requirements.
My broader research interests include supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), geopolymer mortars, bio-based PCMs, and the use of waste-derived resources in construction.
Green Research Hub (HiØ) on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/104427093/
Read about my research within the SNUG project:
https://snugproject.eu/transforming-the-construction-industry-with-energy-efficient-materials/
I also have field research experience from supporting investigations of the Hessdalen phenomenon. My contributions included assisting with the setup of a research station and equipment, and collecting field data.
Courses taught
- Betonglab Materiallærer.
- Master's Thesis Supervision & co-supervision.
Background
I have a background in mechanical engineering, industrial energy systems, and materials for energy technology. Chronologically, I hold a degree in Mechanical Engineering from NED University of Engineering and Technology, Pakistan (2008–2011), and a master’s degree in Green Energy Technology from HiØ (2021–2023). I began my doctoral studies in Industrial Technologies at Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena in February 2024.
My master’s research, conducted in collaboration with Borregaard and HiØ, investigated Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) as an additive in shotcrete mix design. The work included assessments of rheology, workability, mechanical strength, and hydration behavior.
Before moving into academic research, I gained extensive industrial experience in power generation, process engineering, water treatment, hydrogen generation, energy efficiency, performance, and Occupational Health, Safety and Environment (OHSE). This background informs my approach to experimental research and the practical application of new materials.
Appointments
- 2024 - 2025: Vice President, PhD Forum
Positions held
- 2026: Co-supervisor, Master's Thesis (HiØ)
- Feasibility of MSW-IBA-Based Binder for 3D printing Applications in Construction.
- 2025: Co-supervisor, Master's Thesis (HIØ) in collaboration with NMBU
- Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Bottom Ash as Supplementary Cementitious Material: Influence of Treatment Methods
- 2024: External Supervisor Master's Thesis (ØSLOMET)
- Comparison of the effect of Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) and Cellulose Ether (CE) in a shotcrete mix design - An investigation of physical, mechanical, rheological and chemical properties.
- August 2024 - present: Laboratoriet Ingeniør (Betonglaboratorium) HiØ
- 20% role in addition to the PhD.
- December 2023 - present: Doctoral Research Fellow, HiØ
- PCM-enhanced self-leveling mortar.
- SNUG EU project.
- May 2019 - August 2021: Shift Engineer
- Hub Power Services Limited, TEL 330 MW power plant commissioning project, Pakistan.
- May 2012 - April 2019: Operations Engineer
- 1260 MW Bin Qasim Power Station, Karachi, Pakistan.
Partners
My doctoral research involves collaboration with Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena and academic and industrial partners, including ADDA Byggkjemi AS and other research institutes and universities within the SNUG project.
Additionally, we collaborate with NMBU on their projects.
I previously conducted research on Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC) in shotcrete in collaboration with Borregaard and HiØ.