On August 5, 2025, the Society of Nepalese Engineers in the UK (SONEUK) held its sixth talk programme, featuring award-winning research on sustainable structural reinforcement. The session was led by Er. Krishna Kandel, an MSc Civil Engineering graduate from the University of Portsmouth and the winner of the SONEUK Engineering Research Competition 2025.

Research Focus: Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)

Er. Kandel presented his study, "Effect of CFRP Layer Thickness and Repair Width on the Flexural and Compressive Strength of Damaged Concrete Beams." His research addresses the global challenge of aging infrastructure and the limitations of traditional repair methods. Key findings from his laboratory testing included:

• Optimal Strengthening: Increasing both the thickness of CFRP layers and the width of the repair significantly boosts a beam's structural integrity.

• The "Golden Ratio": The study identified that a combination of four CFRP layers with a 400 mm repair width yielded the most effective results in improving flexural and compressive strength.

• Versatile Applications: This method is highly applicable to critical infrastructure such as bridges, hydropower plants, and high-rise urban buildings.

Practical Implications for Nepal

The interactive Q&A session pivoted toward the real-world feasibility of this technology. Engineers discussed:

• Economic Viability: The cost-benefit analysis of using high-tech polymers for large-scale repairs.

• Earthquake Resilience: The potential for CFRP to be used in Nepal for retrofitting and repairing structures damaged by seismic activity, providing a more durable alternative to traditional concrete jacketing.

Promoting Professional Excellence

The event was opened by Er. Nirdesh Khatiwada and Chairperson Er. Subodh Timilsina. Timilsina highlighted that the Talk Programme is designed not just for technical transfer, but as a laboratory for members to sharpen "soft skills" like public speaking and constructive peer review. He noted that the success of these sessions is measured by the depth of curiosity and engagement rather than mere attendance.

SONEUK concluded the session by celebrating Er. Kandel’s contributions and thanking the community for the high-level technical discourse that has become a hallmark of the series.