ENR 2025 Top 25 Newsmakers
Atorod Azizinamini: Developed Spray System for Ultra-High Performance Concrete
Florida International University aims to promote non-proprietary sprayable ultra-high performance concrete.
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Florida Researchers Advancing Potential of Sprayable Ultra-High Performance Concrete in the US
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25 Top Newsmakers
Atorod Azizinamini, director of infrastructure research and innovation at Florida International University, has been instrumental in progressing the use of advanced materials and technologies in bridges and other structures. This includes creation of an open-source ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) mix that provides the same performance as proprietary counterparts, but at significantly less cost—making advanced maintenance solutions accessible to a wider range of agencies and owners.
Azizinamini has led development of a spray system for the high-tech material, providing a faster, more efficient and longer-lasting solution to repair corroded bridge walls, columns and girder ends without need for formwork or other elements of cast-in-place concrete.
He says a sprayed UHPC coating of 1 inch or less may be sufficient for many routine spalling and corrosion repairs, compared with 4 to 6 inches for cast-in-place concrete.
A collaboration with the Virginia Dept. of Transportation in 2024 marked the first time the process has been used for a concrete repair project. Approval by other state transportation agencies is pending for similar projects.
Structural engineer Joseph Colaco, a part-time Professor of Practice at Florida International University and a member of the National Academy of Engineering, calls Azizinamini’s initiative to expand application of sprayable UHPC, “a paradigm shift from the ways we are approaching repair and upgrade of deficient infrastructure.”
Ines Triay, interim dean of the university’s College of Engineering and Computing, adds that the promise of Azizinamini’s research lies in UHPC’s exceptional durability and corrosion resistance—qualities critical for extending the service life of aging structures.
“By enabling rapid, effective strengthening and repair, sprayable UHPC minimizes disruptions, reduces costs and enhances safety for both construction workers and the public,” Triay explains, adding that Azizinamini’s research extends to building design—exploring cost-reduction strategies such as lowering steel fiber content that further broadens the feasibility of sprayable UHPC for both routine and emergency repairs.
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In addition to advancing the science of materials and construction, Azizinamini also has a career-long commitment to foster workforce development and technology transfer.
He and his research team are using a federal grant to form a spin-off company to upgrade and commercialize the sprayable UHPC system, including assembling a mobile unit that houses all equipment needed to carry out concrete repairs. Along with providing sprayable UHPC services, the mobile unit will be instrumental in conducting workshops across the country for contractor training.
“One of the important lessons we learned from the Virginia DOT project is the importance of team organization to properly execute the system,” Azizinamini says. “As we refine the system, we hope to streamline processes, but hands-on experience will still be essential.”
Azizinamini also is a recognized industry leader in developing innovative systems and implementing novel concepts in practice. His patented folded plate girder system provides a cost-effective solution for replacing deficient short span bridges.
In 2015, he was named a White House Transportation Champion of Change, recognized along with other leaders in advancing transportation and change that benefits the country’s transportation system.
Such accomplishments, Triay says, will have far-reaching effects. “His vision and commitment are setting new standards for resilience and sustainability, ensuring that infrastructure maintenance keeps pace with the demands of modern society,” she points out.
