The public defense of the Master’s thesis submitted by Sabreen Khalid Hussein, a student in the Department of Civil Engineering, was held for her thesis entitled:

“Effect of Elevated Temperatures on the Flexural Behavior of EPS Self-Compacting Concrete Beams Reinforced with Waste Plastic Fibers.”

The defense took place in Ibn Al-Haytham Hall at the Department of Civil Engineering on Thursday, February 5, 2026, and was attended by His Excellency the Dean of the College of Engineering, Prof. Dr. Amir Abdulrahman Khalil (Respected).

The examination committee was composed of the following members:
    •    Prof. Dr. Nada Mahdi Fawzi – Chairperson
    •    Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Khasha’a Mohammed – Member
    •    Lect. Dr. Salam Rafi’ Armoush – Member
    •    Prof. Dr. Abdul Qader Ismail Abdulwahab – Member and Supervisor

The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanical and flexural behavior of self-compacting reinforced concrete beams incorporating recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers and expanded polystyrene (EPS) aggregates when exposed to elevated temperatures reaching 600°C. The study sought to enhance the sustainability and thermal resistance of self-compacting concrete through the use of recycled materials, as well as to evaluate their effects on both the fresh and hardened properties of concrete.

The results indicated that incorporating PET fibers into self-compacting concrete can significantly improve its mechanical and flexural performance after thermal exposure, making it more suitable for structural applications subjected to moderate temperature conditions. In contrast, the use of EPS aggregates was found to enhance the fresh properties of concrete, while reducing its ability to retain strength after exposure to high temperatures.

Additionally, an innovative method for measuring surface strains in thermally damaged concrete beams was developed and validated, providing an effective tool for post-fire structural assessment and rehabilitation planning.

The session concluded with a set of scientific recommendations for future researchers aimed at further developing studies in this field and expanding the scope of experimental investigations.

The defense was also attended by His Excellency the Assistant Dean for Scientific Affairs, Prof. Dr. Mohammed Abdul Ahmed (Respected), the Head of the Department, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hamid Aswad Mohammed (Respected), along with a number of faculty members and postgraduate students from the department.

Following an in-depth discussion by the examination committee, the student successfully passed the defense with a grade of Satisfactory.

Congratulations to the student on earning her degree, with our best wishes for her continued academic journey, and our sincere appreciation to the examination committee for their efforts and contributions