Yao Guoyou, a 36-year-old post-doctoral graduate from Tsinghua University, faced mixed reactions after proposing to his girlfriend with an engagement ring made of cement. Despite the backlash, his alma mater considers him an outstanding alumnus. Yao, who studied in the School of Civil Engineering from 2011 to 2016, developed a nano silicon ion material that significantly enhances the waterproofing and lifespan of cement, the world’s most commonly used building material.
During his doctoral studies, Yao tirelessly tested and promoted his invention, spraying the material on major hydraulic engineering projects, including China’s South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The material proved to be a great success, earning Yao the Tsinghua Qihang Scholarship Gold Award in 2016. At the awards ceremony, Yao proposed to his girlfriend, now his wife, with a self-made cement ring sprayed with his innovative material. “The ring suggests that our love will not corrode or degenerate in 100 years,” he said.
The proposal drew a spectrum of reactions on mainland social media. Some praised it as a romantic and meaningful gesture, while others criticized it as “cheap and insincere,” even dubbing Yao “cement brother.” A supporter on Douyin commented, “The material he invented could sustain dams and bridges, and he used it to give her a lifelong promise as strong as that cement. This science romance is so much more beautiful than silver and gold rings.” In contrast, a critic joked, “He should have given her his patent, rather than a piece of cement. That would have shown his sincerity.”
Another user questioned Yao’s motives, suggesting he was more focused on showcasing his success than expressing his love. Yet another pointed out, “Why is the crystal structure of carbon worthwhile and romantic, but not the nano silicon ion?” highlighting the comparable properties of diamonds and Yao’s invention.
In 2017, Yao founded Guardex, a company specializing in cement waterproofing materials. His products were used in the construction of the National Speed Skating Oval, or Ice Ribbon, for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. Committed to social responsibility, Yao also promoted the material in impoverished areas, donating to a village in Guangxi and arranging for his staff to teach locals how to use it.
Today, Yao is the corporate representative of 15 companies and holds about 60 patents, continuing to innovate in the field of civil engineering.
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