Changzhi Li | Catalytic Biomass Refinery | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Changzhi Li | Catalytic Biomass Refinery | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China

Prof. Changzhi Li is a leading researcher in catalytic biomass conversion at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, CAS. He received his Ph.D. under Prof. Zongbao (Kent) Zhao and later joined Prof. Tao Zhang’s group, where he was promoted to full professor in 2019. His research focuses on biomass catalytic conversion and single-atom catalysis (SAC), pioneering ionic liquid-mediated biomass hydrolysis and novel strategies for selective lignin valorization. He has received prestigious awards, including the Min Enze Energy and Chemical Engineering Award, and has been named a Highly Cited Chinese Researcher (2020-2023).

Prof. Li has published over 90 papers in international journals, with ~8,700 citations (Google Scholar). He has filed ~50 patents, with 40 granted in China. He serves as Associate Editor of Frontiers in Chemical Engineering (Catalytic Engineering) and holds editorial roles in several journals, including the Chinese Journal of Catalysis and Catalysts.

Publication Profile

scopus

scholar

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Educational Details

  • Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry – Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), 2009
  • M.S. in Organic Chemistry – Hunan Normal University, 2005
  • B.S. in Chemistry Education – Hunan Normal University, 2002

Professional Experience

  • Professor, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, CAS (2019 – Present)
  • Associate Professor, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, CAS (2012 – 2019)
  • Assistant Professor, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, CAS (2009 – 2012)

Research Interest

  • Advanced catalytic materials for biomass conversion, particularly lignin valorization
  • New catalytic routes for converting biomass into value-added chemicals, fuels, and materials
  • Green solvents for biomass conversion

Top Noted Publication

  • Catalytic transformation of lignin for the production of chemicals and fuels
    Authors: C. Li, X. Zhao, A. Wang, G. W. Huber, T. Zhang
    Journal: Chemical Reviews 115 (21), 11559-11624 (2015)
    Citations: 2,805
    Summary: A comprehensive review on lignin valorization strategies, covering catalytic pathways for producing high-value chemicals and fuels.

  • Acid in ionic liquid: An efficient system for hydrolysis of lignocellulose
    Authors: C. Li, Q. Wang, Z. K. Zhao
    Journal: Green Chemistry 10 (2), 177-182 (2008)
    Citations: 586
    Summary: Demonstrates the use of acidic ionic liquids for efficient lignocellulose hydrolysis, laying the foundation for biomass-to-chemical conversion.

  • Efficient acid‐catalyzed hydrolysis of cellulose in ionic liquid
    Authors: C. Li, Z. K. Zhao
    Journal: Advanced Synthesis & Catalysis 349 (11‐12), 1847-1850 (2007)
    Citations: 463
    Summary: Reports a breakthrough in cellulose hydrolysis using acidic ionic liquids, enabling direct biomass conversion with high efficiency.

  • Catalytic conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into chemicals and fuels
    Authors: W. Deng, Y. Feng, J. Fu, H. Guo, Y. Guo, B. Han, Z. Jiang, L. Kong, C. Li, H. Liu, et al.
    Journal: Green Energy & Environment 8 (1), 10-114 (2023)
    Citations: 457
    Summary: Explores various catalytic approaches for converting lignocellulosic biomass into value-added chemicals and fuels.

  • One-pot catalytic hydrocracking of raw woody biomass into chemicals over supported carbide catalysts: simultaneous conversion of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin
    Authors: C. Li, M. Zheng, A. Wang, T. Zhang
    Journal: Energy & Environmental Science 5 (4), 6383-6390 (2012)
    Citations: 454
    Summary: Develops a one-pot catalytic process using carbide catalysts for direct biomass conversion, achieving high product yields.

  • Direct conversion of glucose and cellulose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural in ionic liquid under microwave irradiation
    Authors: C. Li, Z. Zhang, Z. K. Zhao
    Journal: Tetrahedron Letters 50 (38), 5403-5405
    Citations: Not provided
    Summary: Introduces an efficient, microwave-assisted process for converting cellulose and glucose into 5-HMF, a key biomass-derived chemical.

Conclusion

Prof. Changzhi Li is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his pioneering work in biomass catalysis, high-impact publications, and innovation in catalytic materials. His work has significantly advanced the field of green chemistry and renewable energy. Strengthening global collaborations and industrial applications could further solidify his standing as a top researcher.

Kaveh Andisheh | Circular Economy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Kaveh Andisheh | Circular Economy | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at New Zealand Heavy Engineering Research Association, New Zealand

Summary:

Dr. Kaveh Andisheh is an accomplished civil engineer with extensive experience in structural and earthquake engineering. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from the University of Canterbury, New Zealand, and has held key academic and industry positions globally. As the General Manager of Structural Systems at HERA, he leads cutting-edge research and initiatives in Construction 4.0, circular design, and structural health monitoring. Dr. Andisheh’s career reflects a strong commitment to advancing engineering practices and promoting sustainable, resilient infrastructure.

Professional Profile:

👩‍🎓Education:

PhD in Civil Engineering (2017): University of Canterbury, New Zealand

Doctoral Study in Structural, Seismic and Geotechnical Engineering (2013): Polytechnic University of Milan, Italy

Master of Science in Civil Engineering (2003): Iran University of Science and Technology, Iran

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (Washington Accord Equivalent) (2001): University of Tabriz, Iran

🏢 Professional Experience:

Dr. Kaveh Andisheh currently serves as the General Manager of Structural Systems at the Heavy Engineering Research Association (HERA) in New Zealand, a position he has held since April 2020. In this role, he leads initiatives in Construction 4.0, circular design approaches, and reusable structural systems. His responsibilities also include overseeing research on composite and hybrid materials, structural health monitoring, and performance-based seismic design.

Prior to this, Dr. Andisheh was a PhD student and researcher at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand, from April 2013 to March 2017, where he conducted advanced research on seismic response and resilience of structural systems, including experimental and field testing. From January 2011 to March 2013, he worked as a researcher at the Polytechnic University of Milan, focusing on seismic hazard assessment and the performance of corroded structures.

Dr. Andisheh’s earlier career includes a lecturing position at the University of Kurdistan in Iran from February 2004 to January 2011, where he taught various civil engineering courses and conducted research in structural and earthquake engineering. He also gained practical experience as a structural engineer at Quoin Structural Consultants in New Zealand (2017-2020) and Terra Consulting (2016-2017), specializing in the design, assessment, and seismic strengthening of buildings and bridges.

Additionally, Dr. Andisheh has held key roles in Iran, including Director of Structural and Earthquake Engineering and Managing Director at Ray Med Consulting Engineering (2008-2011), where he directed structural design and seismic assessments for various projects, including a large arena and multi-story buildings. He also worked as a structural and civil engineer at Allan Consulting Engineers (2004-2008) and as a bridge design engineer at Rahyab Consulting Engineers (2003-2004). His career began as a site engineer at TabrizTik in Iran (January 2001 – September 2001).

Research Interests:

Dr. Andisheh’s research interests encompass Construction 4.0, circular design approaches, reusable structural systems, structural health monitoring, composite and hybrid material systems, performance-based seismic design, low-carbon structural design, life-cycle analysis of buildings and bridges, and resilient and sustainable infrastructure. His work also focuses on seismic response of advanced bridge construction, probabilistic seismic hazard assessment, and non-destructive testing of structures.

Author Metrics:

Dr. Andisheh has published several journal and conference papers, contributing significantly to the fields of civil and structural engineering. His research outputs reflect his expertise and innovative approaches in addressing contemporary engineering challenges.

Top Noted Publication:

1. Performance of Road Bridges during the 14 November 2016 Kaikōura Earthquake

  • Authors: A Palermo, R Liu, A Rais, B McHaffie, K Andisheh, S Pampanin, R Gentile, …
  • Journal: Bulletin of the New Zealand Society for Earthquake Engineering
  • Volume: 50, Issue 2
  • Pages: 253-270
  • Year: 2017
  • Citations: 52

2. Seismic Behavior of Corroded RC Bridges: Review and Research Gaps

  • Authors: K Andisheh, A Scott, A Palermo
  • Journal: International Journal of Corrosion
  • Volume: 2016, Issue 1
  • Article ID: 3075184
  • Year: 2016
  • Citations: 51

3. Influence of Chloride Corrosion on the Effective Mechanical Properties of Steel Reinforcement

  • Authors: K Andisheh, A Scott, A Palermo, D Clucas
  • Journal: Structure and Infrastructure Engineering
  • Volume: 15, Issue 8
  • Pages: 1036-1048
  • Year: 2019
  • Citations: 32

4. Cyclic Behavior of Corroded Fuse-Type Dissipaters for Posttensioned Rocking Bridges

  • Authors: K Andisheh, R Liu, A Palermo, A Scott
  • Journal: Journal of Bridge Engineering
  • Volume: 23, Issue 4
  • Article ID: 04018008
  • Year: 2018
  • Citations: 32

5. Modeling the Influence of Pitting Corrosion on the Mechanical Properties of Steel Reinforcement

  • Authors: K Andisheh, A Scott, A Palermo
  • Journal: Materials and Corrosion
  • Volume: 67, Issue 11
  • Pages: 1220-1234
  • Year: 2016
  • Citations: 30

 

Alevtina (Alla) White Smirnova | Battery recycling | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Alevtina (Alla) White Smirnova, Battery recycling, Best Researcher Award

Professor at SD Mines – an Engineering, Science, and Technology University/ N, United States

Summary:

Dr. Alevtina (Alla) White Smirnova is a distinguished professional with a rich background in chemical and materials engineering. Currently serving as a Professor in the CBHS Department at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, she has held various academic positions, including Associate Professor and Assistant Professor, contributing significantly to research and education. Dr. Smirnova’s career extends across different institutions, including Eastern Connecticut State University and the University of Connecticut, showcasing her commitment to advancing knowledge in her field.

Professional Profile:

Scopus Profile

Orcid Profile

Google Scholar Profile

👩‍🎓Education & Qualification:

Dr. Alevtina (Alla) White Smirnova’s educational journey has been marked by academic excellence and a commitment to advancing her expertise. In 2000, she participated in the Special American Business Internship Training (SABIT) program, a prestigious initiative provided by the US Department of Commerce. As part of this program, she engaged with the University of Michigan, Ann-Arbor University, and the Ford Research and Innovation Center in Dearborn, MI, showcasing her dedication to continuous learning and collaboration.

Dr. Smirnova earned her PhD degree in Physical Chemistry and Materials Science from St. Petersburg State University in Russia in 1990. Her doctoral research, conducted at this esteemed institution, reflects her deep involvement in the field and a significant contribution to the academic community. The intellectual foundation laid during her PhD studies has been pivotal to her subsequent accomplishments and leadership roles in academia.

Her academic journey commenced with an integrated BS/MS degree in Chemistry, which she completed at St. Petersburg State University in 1980. This early phase of her education set the stage for her future academic pursuits, laying a solid groundwork for the research and teaching roles that followed throughout her illustrious career. Dr. Smirnova’s educational experiences reflect her dedication to academic excellence and her commitment to making valuable contributions to the field of chemistry and materials science.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Alevtina (Alla) White Smirnova has amassed a wealth of experience in her distinguished career, spanning several prestigious institutions across the globe. Currently serving as a Professor in the CBHS Department at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology since 2022, Dr. Smirnova brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Prior to this, she held the position of Associate Professor from 2016 to 2021, securing a tenured position in the CBHS Department at the same institution. Beginning her academic journey in 2011, she served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Applied Biological Sciences at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, securing a tenure-track position.

In 2009, Dr. Smirnova took on the role of Assistant Professor in Sustainable Energy at Eastern Connecticut State University, further enriching her academic portfolio. Her journey in academia includes a significant period as an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Chemical, Materials, and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Connecticut from 2004 to 2009. Additionally, she served as a Research Scientist at the Connecticut Global Fuel Cell Center and was honored with invitations to professorial roles at institutions such as the University of Turku in Finland, Autonoma University of Barcelona in Spain, and the Institute for Chemical and Biosensors in Muenster, Germany.

Her academic contributions extend globally, with visiting professorships at renowned institutions, including the Ford Motor Company/University of Ann Arbor in Michigan. Dr. Smirnova’s extensive research and teaching career began at St. Petersburg State University in Russia, where she progressed from Junior Research Scientist in 1980-1981 to Associate Professor and Research Scientist from 1981 to 2000. Her invaluable expertise and dedication to academia have made her a respected figure in the field of chemistry and applied biological sciences.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Alevtina (Alla) White Smirnova has been recognized for her significant contributions to the fields of chemical and environmental engineering, solid-state energy storage technology, and sustainability. Her honors and achievements highlight her expertise and leadership in these areas:

  • In 2022, Dr. Smirnova served as the Chief Editor and contributed to the book “Green Sustainable Process for Chemical and Environmental Engineering and Science: Next-generation solid-state energy storage technology – a path to environmental sustainability.” The book, published by Elsevier, reflects her commitment to advancing sustainable processes in chemical engineering.
  • Since 2021, she has taken on leadership roles as the Director of the NSF IUCRC “Center for solid-state electric power storage” and the Director of the “South Dakota Governor’s Research Center for electrochemical energy storage,” showcasing her dedication to advancing research initiatives in these critical areas.
  • In 2021, Dr. Smirnova was invited to deliver a keynote presentation at the “Congress on Materials Science and Engineering-Europe-Asia-USA,” emphasizing her recognition as an expert in the field.
  • She has been serving as an Invited Editor and Editorial Board Member for the MDPI Journal “Sustainability” since 2018, contributing her expertise to the advancement of sustainable practices.
  • Dr. Smirnova received a summer faculty award from NASA Glenn Research Center in 2013, recognizing her contributions to research in aerospace applications.
  • Her international impact is evident in her role as an Invited Author for four book chapters (ACS, Nova Publishers, New York, and Woodhead Publishers, Cambridge, UK) from 2008 to 2012.
  • Dr. Smirnova’s excellence in peer review was acknowledged in 2007 when she was named the Top Reviewer of the Journal of Power Sources by Elsevier Publishers.
  • She received the State of Michigan’s King-Chavez-Parks Initiative award in 2006, recognizing her contributions as a visiting woman and minority lecturer/scholar series focused on fuel cells and fuel cell materials.
  • Dr. Smirnova’s dedication to chemical sensors earned her the Highest Honor Professor Award from the Scientific Council and the Senate of St. Petersburg State University (RF) in 1999.
  • She was honored with the George Soros Foundation Award in 1989 for her work in the development of chemical and biosensors. This recognition underscores her early contributions to the field of sensor technology.

Research Interest:

Solid-State Energy Storage Technology: Dr. Smirnova has a keen interest in the development and advancement of solid-state energy storage systems. This includes exploring innovative materials, engineering approaches, and technologies to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of energy storage solutions.

Chemical and Environmental Engineering: With a background in chemical engineering, Dr. Smirnova is actively involved in research aimed at improving processes in chemical and environmental engineering. This involves investigating cleaner and more sustainable methods for chemical production and waste management.

Electrochemical Energy Storage: As the Director of the “South Dakota Governor’s Research Center for electrochemical energy storage,” Dr. Smirnova contributes to research in the crucial area of electrochemical energy storage. This includes the development of batteries and other energy storage devices with a focus on efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Sustainability: Serving as an Invited Editor for the MDPI Journal “Sustainability” and contributing to publications focused on green and sustainable processes, Dr. Smirnova actively engages in research related to sustainability in various engineering applications. This encompasses environmentally friendly practices and the integration of sustainable principles into engineering processes.

Chemical Sensors: Dr. Smirnova has made significant contributions to the field of chemical sensors, particularly in medical, biological, and environmental applications. Her research in this area involves the development of sensors for monitoring and detecting various substances, contributing to advancements in healthcare and environmental monitoring.

Publication Top Noted:

“Bi-functionality of samarium-and praseodymium-based perovskite catalysts for oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions in alkaline medium”

  • Authors: P Kolla, G Nasymov, R Rajappagowda, A Smirnova
  • Journal: Journal of Power Sources
  • Volume: 446, Pages: 227-234
  • Year: 2020
  • Citations: 24

“Synthesis and properties of nanocomposites with mixed ionic-electronic conductivity on the basis of oxide phases with perovskite and fluorite structures”

  • Authors: VA Sadykov, YV Borchert, GM Alikina, AI Lukashevich, NV Mezentseva, A. Smirnova, et al.
  • Journal: Glass Physics and Chemistry
  • Volume: 33, Pages: 320-334
  • Year: 2007
  • Citations: 24

“Design and characterization of LSM/ScCeSZ nanocomposite as mixed ionic–electronic conducting material for functionally graded cathodes of solid oxide fuel cells”

  • Authors: V Sadykov, G Alikina, A Lukashevich, V Muzykantov, V Usoltsev, A. Smirnova, et al.
  • Journal: Solid State Ionics
  • Volume: 192 (1), Pages: 540-546
  • Year: 2011
  • Citations: 22

“Structural, mechanical, and electrochemical properties of ceria doped scandia stabilized zirconia”

  • Authors: OD Vasylyev, AL Smirnova, MM Brychevskyi, IM Brodnikovskyi, SO Firstov, A. Smirnova, et al.
  • Journal: Наноструктурное материаловедение (Nanomaterials Science)
  • Year: 2011
  • Citations: 22

“Structural and transport properties of doped LAMOX—Electrolytes for IT SOFC”

  • Authors: S Pavlova, Y Bespalko, V Sadykov, N Eremeev, T Krieger, E Sadovskaya, A. Smirnova, et al.
  • Journal: Solid State Ionics
  • Volume: 288, Pages: 103-109
  • Year: 2016
  • Citations: 20

 

 

 

Shaowen Wu | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shaowen Wu, Materials Science, Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at University of Science and Technology Beijing, China

Summary:

Shaowen Wu is a dedicated doctoral student with a political status as a Member of the CPC, currently pursuing a Doctoral degree in Metallurgical Engineering at Beijing University of Science and Technology. He also holds the position of Joint Doctor at KU Leuven, Materials Engineering, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge in metallurgy.

His academic journey includes a Master’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering from North China University of Science and Technology, where he focused on high-quality steel continuous casting. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering from the same institution.

Shaowen Wu has received notable honors and awards, such as the Scholarship of the Chinese Scholarship Council in 2022, First Class Scholarship of USTB in 2022, and the Excellent Graduate Student Cadres Award at USTB in 2021, among others. These recognitions underscore his academic excellence and contributions to research.

Professional Profile:

Education & Qualification:

Shaowen Wu’s educational background is highlighted by a strong focus on metallurgical engineering. His academic journey includes the following milestones:

Doctor Degree (2020/09~Now):

  • Institution: Beijing University of Science and Technology
  • Program: Metallurgical Engineering
  • Lab: State Key Laboratory of Advanced Metallurgy

Joint Doctor (2023/02~2023/08):

Master Degree (2016/09~2019/03):

  • Institution: North China University of Science and Technology
  • Program: Metallurgical Engineering
  • Lab: High-Quality Steel Continuous Casting Laboratory

Bachelor Degree (2012/09~2016/06):

  • Institution: North China University of Science and Technology
  • Program: Metallurgical Engineering

This educational journey showcases Shaowen Wu’s dedication to advancing his expertise in metallurgical engineering, with a particular emphasis on high-quality steel continuous casting.

Honors and Awards:

Shaowen Wu has earned recognition and accolades for his academic achievements and contributions. Some notable honors and awards include:

  • Scholarship of the Chinese Scholarship Council (2022): Acknowledging academic excellence and research contributions.
  • First Class Scholarship of USTB (2022): Recognition for outstanding performance and dedication at the University of Science and Technology Beijing.
  • Excellent Graduate Student Cadres Award, USTB (2021): Awarded for exemplary leadership and service as a graduate student cadre.
  • Excellent Research Thesis Award, Hebei Province (2020): Recognized for the quality and impact of the research thesis in Hebei Province.
  • Excellent Graduate Student Award, NCST (2018): Acknowledged as an outstanding graduate student at North China University of Science and Technology.
  • Academic Scholarship Award for 3 times, NCST (2016~2019): Consistent recognition for academic excellence through multiple scholarship awards.
  • First Prize in Men’s Singles of SKL Badminton Competition 2022: Achieving excellence in sports by securing the first prize in the Men’s Singles category at the SKL Badminton Competition in 2022.

These honors underscore Shaowen Wu’s multidimensional achievements, spanning academics, research, leadership, and sports.

Research Areas:

Metallurgical Engineering: Wu is engaged in research related to metallurgical processes, particularly focusing on the crystallization behaviors and kinetics of argon oxygen decarburization slag.

Slag Utilization: Wu investigates the reuse of vitrified argon oxygen decarburization slag as supplementary cementitious materials. This research explores the comprehensive performance and the chromium immobilization mechanism of the slag.

Chromium-containing Materials: Wu studies the chromium enrichment in different crystalline phases of Cr-containing slag under various conditions, including different basicities and equilibrium temperatures.

Leaching Mechanism: His research extends to understanding the long-term leaching mechanism of chromium-containing slag after vitrification and heat treatment.

Microstructural Analysis: Wu contributes to the field of metallurgy by conducting a three-dimensional morphology and analysis of Widmanstätten sideplates ferrite, providing insights into the microstructural aspects of metallurgical processes.

Overall, Shaowen Wu’s research spans multiple aspects of metallurgical engineering, including slag properties, chromium-containing materials, and the sustainable utilization of metallurgical by-products.

Publication Top Noted:

Shaowen Wu has made significant contributions to metallurgical engineering, particularly in the area of crystallization behaviors and kinetic of argon oxygen decarburization slag. Some of his recent articles include:

Crystallization behaviors and kinetic of argon oxygen decarburization slag via various SiO2 content: Conditions for obtaining amorphous state

  • Wu, S., Zhang, S., Zhao, Z., Zhang, Y.
  • Journal of Non-Crystalline Solids, 2022, 597, 121926

Reuse of vitrified argon oxygen decarburization slag as supplementary cementitious materials: Comprehensive performance and chromium immobilization mechanism

  • Wu, S., Zhang, S., Zhang, Y., Gao, C.
  • Construction and Building Materials, 2022, 348, 128647

Chromium enrichment in different crystalline phases of Cr-containing slag under various basicities and equilibrium temperatures

  • Wu, S.-W., Zhang, Y.-L., Zhang, S.
  • Journal of Iron and Steel Research International, 2022, 29(9), pp. 1412–1422

Long-term leaching mechanism of chromium-containing slag after vitrification and heat treatment

  • Zhang, S., Zhang, Y., Wu, S., Zhao, Z., Wu, Y.
  • Ceramics International, 2022, 48(9), pp. 13366–13378

Three-Dimensional Morphology and Analysis of Widmanstätten Sideplates Ferrite

  • Cao, S., Wu, S., Zhang, C., Zhang, Q.
  • Metals, 2022, 12(3), 523 (Open access)

These articles showcase Shaowen Wu’s expertise and research focus in metallurgy, providing valuable insights into various aspects of slag and metallurgical processes.