Hubei Province announced that 20 young scientists won the 9th Science and Technology Award for Youth on Jan. 22, 2010. As one of the winners, Dr. XUE Qiang from IRSM, CAS (Institute of Rock and Soil Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences) has honored the prize.

Established in 1994, Hubei Science and Technology Award for Youth is to honor those young scientists with outstanding contributions to the enhancement of economy, society and science and technology in Hubei.

Prof. XUE Qiang is engaged in the research work on the theory and application of multi-field and mutiphase coupling in the contaminant transportation, ecological geomechanics, and ecological higher value utilization of solid waste. He proposed the modified sludge granulation technology which is composed of the continuous modification of sludge, complete mixed modification equipment of sludge, modifier of sludge (E type), and sludge granulation facility. Since the modified sludge can replace landfill cover soils and substitute for clay in cement clinker burning, this technology will promote sludge comprehensive treating and environmental protection.