Maja Vončina | Aluminum Alloys | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. Maja Vončina, Aluminum Alloys, Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of Ljubljana, Slovenia

Summary:

Maja Vončina is an accomplished academic, researcher, and leader in Materials Process Engineering. With a strong background in thermodynamics, kinetics, and metallurgy, she has made significant contributions to the field. Her expertise extends to teaching, collaboration with industry, and successful project leadership. Recognized for her achievements, Maja continues to excel in her academic and scientific pursuits.

Professional Profile:

Education & Qualification:

Graduated from Jurij Vega High School, Idrija, 1999

Bachelor’s in Materials and Metallurgy, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, University of Ljubljana, 2005

Postgraduate studies in Materials, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, University of Ljubljana

Ph.D. in Materials, defended in 2011

🔧 Research Focus: Development of Advanced Aluminum Alloys

🌐 Overview: The research conducted by our team revolves around the development of innovative aluminum alloys with superior mechanical properties. Aluminum, renowned for its versatility, is a key material in everyday and industrial products. In particular, our focus extends to the automotive industry, where aluminum alloys are increasingly replacing traditional steel components. This shift is driven by the desire to achieve a favorable balance between weight, mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness.

🚗 Automotive Industry Impact: In the automotive sector, the introduction of aluminum alloys provides a significant advantage in achieving optimal weight-to-strength ratios. This, coupled with excellent corrosion resistance, makes these alloys invaluable for various applications in vehicle manufacturing.

Research Areas:

Innovative Aluminum Alloys

Alloying Elements and Heat Treatments

Multicomponent Systems

Oxidation Resistance

🔍 Significance: The research outcomes aim to contribute to the advancement of materials science and engineering, particularly in enhancing the properties of aluminum alloys. By understanding the intricate relationships between alloying elements, heat treatments, and oxidation resistance, our work has broader implications for industries seeking durable, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant materials.

🌟 Future Direction: Continued exploration of alloy development, optimization of manufacturing processes, and collaboration with industry partners to ensure the successful integration of these advanced aluminum alloys into a wide range of applications.

👩‍🏫 Academic Journey:

Dr. Maja Vončina’s academic journey is characterized by a steadfast commitment to learning and advancement:

Assistant at the University of Ljubljana, Department of Materials and Metallurgy: Dr. Vončina initiated her academic career, contributing to the Department of Materials and Metallurgy at the University of Ljubljana.

Postdoctoral Studies at Montanuniversität Leoben (2017): Embracing opportunities for further specialization, she engaged in postdoctoral studies at Montanuniversität Leoben in 2017.

Assistant Professor in Materials Process Engineering (2013): Recognized for her expertise, Dr. Vončina assumed the role of Assistant Professor, delving into the intricacies of Materials Process Engineering.

Promotion to Associate Professor (2021): Acknowledging her contributions and expertise, she achieved a significant milestone, earning the promotion to the position of Associate Professor.

Assumes the Role of Vice Dean of the Study Affairs Commission: Demonstrating leadership capabilities, Dr. Vončina took on the responsibility of Vice Dean, contributing to the effective functioning of the Study Affairs Commission.

Scientific Research:

Dr. Vončina’s research journey is characterized by a dedicated exploration of the thermodynamics and kinetics of materials, thermal analysis, and non-ferrous metallurgy. Noteworthy aspects of her contributions include:

Specializations in internal oxidation, electrical conductivity measurement, and oxidation of magnesium alloys

Extensive research activities encompassing thermodynamic calculations and corrosion resistance studies

A prolific scholar with 57 peer-reviewed papers, showcasing her substantial impact in the academic realm

Trusted reviewer for over 15 journals, reflecting her standing in the scholarly community

Active engagement in application projects, establishing collaborative ties with industry partners.

Publication Top Noted:

Interaction kinetics between molten aluminium alloy Al99.7 and H11 tool steel with and without an AlCrN protective coating

  • Journal: Applied Surface Science Advances, 2023, 18, 100474
  • Authors: M. Vončina, A. Nagode, J. Medved, T. Balaško

Thermodynamic and Microstructural Analysis of Lead-Free Machining Aluminium Alloys with Indium and Bismuth Additions

  • Journal: Materials, 2023, 16(18), 6241
  • Authors: S. Rečnik, M. Vončina, A. Nagode, J. Medved

Solidification Behavior of Fe-6.5Si Alloy Powder for AM-SLM Processing, as Assessed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry

  • Journal: Materials, 2023, 16(12), 4229
  • Authors: D. Steiner Petrovič, Č. Donik, I. Paulin, M. Vončina, M. Petrun

The Influence of Foundry Scrap Returns on Chemical Composition and Microstructure Development of AlSi9Cu3 Alloy

  • Journal: Crystals, 2023, 13(5), 757
  • Authors: J. Šmalc, M. Vončina, P. Mrvar, V. Krutiš, M. Petrič

Dispersoids in Al-Mg-Si Alloy AA 6086 Modified by Sc and Y

  • Journal: Materials, 2023, 16(8), 2949
  • Authors: F. Zupanič, S. Žist, M. Albu, M. Vončina, T. Bončina