Postgraduate Research Fellow
Pooja Kaur Chaggar (Pooja Bhardwaj) is a Postgraduate Research Scholar at Western Sydney University and a chemist with over 18 years of academic experience. Her background includes extensive research in geopolymer science, corrosion and fire-resistant coatings, and sustainable materials. Currently, her research focuses on developing durable coatings for sewage infrastructure and assessing their long-term performance. With a PhD in Sciences and experience mentoring students, Pooja integrates practical scientific insight with a strong commitment to sustainable infrastructure and community-focused research. She actively collaborates across disciplines and contributes to CRC-linked initiatives.
Western Sydney University
Development of novel geopolymer formulations for protection and rehabilitation of sewer infrastructure.
The project addresses the urgent challenge of microbially induced corrosion (MIC), which deteriorates conventional concrete due to sulfuric acid produced in wastewater environments. To mitigate this, the research explores low-carbon, acid-resistant alternatives to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) by utilising industrial by-products or mineral wastes sourced within Australia.
Pooja’s work is focused on the design, formulation, and performance optimisation of novel geopolymer binders with enhanced adhesion, durability, and chemical resistance. The research involves a comprehensive suite of laboratory investigations, including accelerated aging trials, mass loss analysis, surface degradation monitoring, and lifespan prediction modelling under varied pH and temperature conditions aligned with ASTM standards. Her goal is to deliver a sprayable, field-deployable geopolymer coating suitable for real-world application in wastewater systems.
My decision to pursue an industry-led research project was driven by my long-standing interest in developing sustainable materials with real-world applications. Through years of research materials, I recognised the urgent need for innovative solutions to challenges like corrosion. The visible degradation of conventional concrete in extreme environments highlighted the limitations of current materials. The current project, supported by SmartCrete CRC, offers the opportunity to work closely with industry partners to design and test geopolymer coatings that are not only durable and environmentally friendly, but also viable for large-scale implementation.
The highlight of my research has been successfully formulating acid-resistant geopolymer coatings using locally sourced mineral waste, demonstrating strong durability under harsh acidic conditions. It was especially rewarding to see the material outperform conventional options during accelerated aging tests, confirming its potential for real-world sewer infrastructure protection. This progress not only validates the sustainability of geopolymer technology but also reinforces the practical impact of my work in addressing infrastructure resilience and environmental goals.
After completing my PhD, I aim to continue contributing to the advancement of sustainable infrastructure—ideally through a role that bridges both research and industry. I see myself working in applied research, either within a CRC, research institute, or industry R&D team, where I can further develop and implement sustainable material solutions like geopolymer coatings. My long-term goal is to support the transition to low-carbon construction practices, contribute to circular economy initiatives, and mentor emerging researchers in the field of environmental materials and infrastructure resilience.
More broadly, my research contributes to Australia’s built environment by offering a sustainable and durable alternative to traditional concrete materials used in sewer infrastructure. By developing geopolymer coatings from locally sourced industrial by-products, the project supports waste valorisation, reduces CO₂ emissions, and promotes circular economy practices. This directly benefits the concrete ecosystem by extending the lifespan of existing assets, lowering maintenance costs, and reducing the environmental impact of repair and replacement. Ultimately, it aligns with national priorities in infrastructure resilience, sustainability, and innovation in materials science.
