Leila Nobrega Sousa

About Leila Nobrega Sousa

Affiliation
Eindhoven University of Technology

Innovandi Project
Core Project 10: Production and usage of carbonated or uncarbonated RCFines

Background
Metallurgical Engineer from the Federal University of Ouro Preto in Brazil, and a Master’s degree in Material Engineering. My background includes the reuse/treatments of industrial and agro-industrial by-products and wastes. I also have worked as a research assistant in R&D in the refractory industry, contributing to material development projects.

Research topic
My PhD research focuses on evaluating the potential of real recycled concrete fines (RCF) obtained from industrial recycling sites and enhancing their properties for sustainable construction applications. To improve their performance, I have been exploring the feasibility of semi-dry carbonation and some activation processes, including mechanical and autoclaving. This work aims to develop high-performance materials that contribute to resource efficiency and circularity in the construction sector. As part of my research, I conduct laboratory experiments to analyze the physical, chemical, and mineralogical characteristics of RCFs. Additionally, I assess the mechanical properties of RCF in paste and mortar systems to determine their feasibility for practical applications. By combining experimental research with collaboration in the recycling industry, my work aims to support the development of more sustainable material solutions.