We are excited to introduce our new PhD student, who will be joining the research team working on HERA’s ACM CRC project program Circular Design 4.0.
Abila Hena Anayet is pursuing her PhD in Civil Engineering at The University of Sydney (USYD) focusing on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for quality control in structural steel fabrication. Her work aims to optimize Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods to improve fabrication efficiency, minimize defects, and ensure compliance with Australian Standards. Ms. Abila completed her Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) with First Class Honors, and have a strong academic and research background in sustainable construction materials and environmental engineering.
Academic and Research Background
Abila’s research journey has been defined by showing her deep interest in sustainability and innovation within the field of civil engineering. During undergraduate studies, she conducted research on CO2 capture through optimized curing regimes for artificial aggregates, which led to improvements in both strength and sustainability in construction materials. She published multiple quality journal papers on topics including biochar’s role in heavy metal removal, struvite fertilizers for sustainable agriculture, and the remediation of environmental contaminants. These publications reflect her commitment to advancing sustainable and environmentally responsible engineering practices.
PhD Research Project
Ms. Abila will conduct her PhD project under HERA’s ACM CRC Circular Design 4.0, Subproject Optimal Level and Type of Inspection and NDT. The project is supervised by under the Dr. Mike Bambach and Dr. Ali Amin, focusing on AI-based optimisation of NDT for steel fabrication. This research involves the development of AI tools to assess and predict fabrication defects, using statistical analyses to understand the relationship between fabrication variables and structural integrity. The project aims to enhance the overall efficiency of the fabrication process through advanced data-driven inspection approaches. It will focus on defining inspection requirements for fillet and partial penetration welds as used in demand critical applications such as moment resisting connection and bridge sections.
Abila will be working on analysing large datasets of NDT results, performing finite element analyses, and conducting experimental tests to validate AI-driven models. This research will result in the development of optimised inspection guidelines tailored to specific fabrication scenarios, improving safety, reliability, and compliance across the construction industry with reference to AS/NZS 5131.
Contribution and Impact
The ultimate goal of her research is to contribute to the advancement of AI-driven solutions for quality control in civil engineering, ensuring sustainable, efficient, and reliable fabrication practices. By integrating AI with traditional inspection methods, productivity will be enhanced while reducing waste and ensuring compliance with both environmental and structural standards. This work is set to provide the construction industry with more intelligent, data-driven decision-making tools, further advancing sustainable infrastructure development.
Looking Forward
We are excited about the findings and potential applications of Abila’s research and look forward to see her contribution to innovative engineering solutions domain that drive sustainability and excellence in the construction industry.