Dr. Radhakrishna G. Pillai – Professional Profile
Current Role
Dr. Radhakrishna G. Pillai is an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at IIT Madras. He specializes in construction materials, concrete technology, and the repair of concrete structures, with a focus on corrosion of steel in reinforced and prestressed concrete structures.
Education and Career
Dr. Pillai earned his BE degree in Civil Engineering from MNNIT, Allahabad, and his MS and PhD in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University (TAMU), USA. His passion for combating corrosion led him to join IIT Madras in 2010. He has been involved in various projects focusing on steel corrosion and its impact on the durability and service life of concrete structures.
Research and Projects
Dr. Pillai runs several projects centered around:
- Developing corrosion test methods and tools for engineers.
- Promoting service life-based design of concrete structures.
- Extending the residual service life of concrete structures through cathodic protection.
Contributions and Collaboration
Dr. Pillai has co-authored more than 40 journal papers and 60 conference papers. His work addresses practical challenges and aims to modify standards and specifications. He is actively involved with ICI, NACE, and RILEM, contributing significantly to the field.
Awards and Honors
- Excellence in Corrosion Science & Technology Award, NIGIS Corrosion Awareness Awards, 2019.
- Excellent Public Sector Laboratory (as part of the group of corrosion laboratories in IIT Madras), NIGIS Corrosion Awareness Awards, 2019.
- ICI Ultratech Award for Outstanding Young Concrete Engineer, Indian Concrete Institute, 2016.
- Former Students Association Scholarship, TAMU, Spring 2009.
- Richard Gehle Memorial Scholarship, TAMU, Fall 2006.
- Departmental Merit Scholarship, TAMU, Spring 2006.
Contact and Opportunities
If you are interested in joining Dr. Pillai’s group to combat steel corrosion and extend the service life of concrete structures, feel free to contact him and explore possible research opportunities.
