Announcing the 2025 Albert Shou Student Scholarship Winners
The International Society for Trenchless Technology (ISTT) is delighted to announce the recipients of the 2025 Albert Shou Student Scholarship. Supported annually by ASOE (Asoe Hose Manufacturing Inc., Jiangsu, China), the scholarship provides $10,000 to recognize outstanding student research that advances trenchless technology.
The winning papers were submitted to ISTT for scholarly review and selection. The award ceremony will take place during the International No-Dig Vancouver/No-Dig North event.
Best Paper Award — 1st Place ($4,000)
Kaho Fujii
Using 3D FEM, Fujii examined how wall thickness, corner radii, and overall geometry influenced failure behavior in deeply buried rectangular box jacking pipes. The findings offered practical guidance for optimizing propulsion square tube design to improve safety and reliability in dense urban settings.
Note: Kaho Fujii will deliver a presentation at International No-Dig Vancouver/No-Dig North.
Awarded Paper — 2nd Place ($2,000)
Dongmin Xi
A validated theoretical model predicted pulling forces when inserting multilayer composite liners through multiple bends, accounting for bend geometry, friction, bending stiffness, and reverse tension. The work provided actionable guidance for safer, more cost-effective rehabilitation planning.
Awarded Paper — 3rd Place ($2,000)
Niloy Paul
Evaluation of fiber-reinforced alkali-activated slag mortars for spray-applied pipe lining (SAPL) showed PVA fibers reduced shrinkage and enhanced mechanical performance. With silica fume improving workability and ambient curing meeting ASTM F3706 and TxDOT criteria, the study supported durable, sustainable rehabilitation materials.
Congratulations
ISTT warmly congratulates Kaho Fujii, Dongmin Xi, and Niloy Paul for their achievements. We thank all student authors and Affiliated Societies for supporting the advancement of trenchless technology.
For scholarship details and future submissions, please contact ISTT at info@istt.com