Ngoc Don TA | Catalysis | Best Innovation Award

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Prof. Ngoc Don TA | Catalysis | Best Innovation Award

MOET, VNANA, JCA, HUST | Vietnam

Professor Ngoc Don TA is a leading Vietnamese expert in catalysis and adsorption, with extensive contributions to porous materials research and science policy. His work focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and application of zeolites, MOFs, and ZIFs as advanced adsorbents and catalysts for oil and gas processing, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and environmental protection. He has led 16 national scientific projects, published over 170 scientific articles and 5 monographs, and holds 20 granted patents with additional applications under review. Notably, he successfully transferred technologies to establish two industrial zeolite factories in Vietnam, supporting aquaculture, pollution control, catalysis, and fertilizer production. Alongside research, he plays a pivotal role in academic leadership, journal editorship, and national science governance.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

  220
  150
   80
   10
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Citations
183

Documents
13

h-index
5

Citations

Documents

h-index

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Featured Publications

Wenkai Huang | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Wenkai Huang | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Barcelona | Spain

Dr. Wenkai Huang is a dynamic early-career researcher in materials science and environmental chemistry, specializing in the design, synthesis, and application of advanced nanomaterials for sustainable energy and environmental remediation. His research focuses on carbon nanomaterials, transition-metal nanoparticles, and single-atom catalysts, with applications spanning hydrogen energy, catalytic conversion, and wastewater treatment. Wenkai has made significant contributions to the development of high-performance catalysts for controlled hydrogen generation, including innovative “on-off” switch catalytic systems for hydrazine, formic acid, ammonia borane, and related hydrogen-storage materials. His work has been published in leading journals such as International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Fuel, ACS Applied Nano Materials, Carbon Energy, and Green Chemical Engineering, demonstrating both scientific rigor and originality. He has also advanced environmental catalysis through the synthesis of Co₃O₄ nanocubes and lignin-derived carbon materials for the degradation of emerging contaminants in wastewater, contributing to more efficient pollutant removal technologies. In addition to his journal publications, Wenkai is co-inventor on patents related to graphene quantum dots and porous carbon nanospheres, reflecting his strength in translating research into practical innovations. His academic journey from top-performing undergraduate at Lanzhou University of Technology, to postgraduate excellence at China Three Gorges University, to his current research at the University of Barcelona demonstrates consistent achievement supported by multiple competitive scholarships, including the China Scholarship Council award. Combined with earlier engineering experience in advanced aluminum materials, Wenkai brings strong interdisciplinary expertise to the advancement of clean energy catalysis and environmental nanotechnology.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Huang, W., Llopart-Roca, P., Nieto-Sandoval, J., Bayarri, B., & Sans, C. (2025). Enhanced peroxymonosulfate activation by oxalic acid–activated lignin-derived carbon to degrade sulfamethoxazole: Performance and mechanism. Green Chemical Engineering.

Xu, F., Wang, Y., Wang, C., Huang, W., & Liu, X. (2023). Dehydrogenation of hydrous hydrazine over carbon nanosphere-supported PtNi nanoparticles for on-demand H₂ release. Fuel, 332, 126116.

Huang, W., Xu, F., Li, D., Astruc, D., & Liu, X. (2023). “On–off” switch for H₂ and O₂ generation from HCOOH and H₂O₂. Carbon Energy, 5(3), e269.

Huang, W., Xu, F., Tian, S., Wang, C., & Liu, X. (2022). Bimetallic PtNi nanoclusters supported on carbon nanospheres as catalysts for H₂ production from dimethylamineborane hydrolysis. ACS Applied Nano Materials.

Huang, W., Jin, X., Li, Q., et al. (2023). Co₃O₄ nanocubes for degradation of oxytetracycline in wastewater via peroxymonosulfate activation. ACS Applied Nano Materials, 6(13), 12497–12506.

Jianguang Xiao | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Jianguang Xiao | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

North University of China | China

Dr. Jianguang Xiao is an Associate Professor of Ordnance Science and Technology at North University of China, Ph.D., and supervisor for master’s degree candidates. Recognized as a Young Outstanding Talent of Shanxi Province’s “Sanjin Elite” Program, Dr. Xiao has made significant contributions to the study of reactive materials, explosion and shock dynamics, and target vulnerability assessment, particularly for UAVs, vehicles, and ammunition systems. His research integrates mechanics, thermotics, and chemistry, providing advanced modeling and simulation methods for reactive material behavior under high-velocity impact, energy release, and deflagration conditions. Dr. Xiao has led and participated in over twenty vertical and horizontal research projects, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, National Defense Foundation Projects, and Shanxi Provincial Natural Science Foundation. Notable projects include studies on the preparation and energy release characteristics of Tetrafluoroethylene-Hexafluoropropylene-Vinylidene Fluoride-based reactive materials and the development of integrated shock/deflagration material models. He has authored 28 high-level academic documents, including SCI and EI journal papers, one academic monograph, and holds three invention patents. His work has garnered 391 citations from 279 documents, achieving an h-index of 10, reflecting the significant impact of his research on the field of reactive materials and defense engineering. Dr. Xiao’s publications cover topics such as molecular dynamics simulation of chemical reactions, impact-induced deflagration behavior, and enhanced damage effects of reactive materials on concrete targets. Beyond research, Dr. Xiao actively contributes to the academic community. He serves on the youth editorial boards of journals including Journal of China Ordnance, Aeronautical Weaponry, and Journal of North University of China, and is a peer reviewer for prominent journals like Defence Technology and International Journal of Impact Engineering. He has been consecutively recognized as an Excellent Reviewer by multiple journals, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining high scholarly standards. Dr. Xiao’s interdisciplinary expertise, innovative contributions to reactive materials research, and active academic engagement make him a leading figure in his field, demonstrating both scientific excellence and practical impact.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Research Gate

Featured Publications

  • Xiao, J., Zhang, J., Ma, J., et al. (2024). Mechanics–thermotics–chemistry coupling response model and numerical simulation of reactive materials under impact load. Advances in Engineering Software, 192, 103647.

  • An, D., Xiao, J.*, Ma, J., et al. (2024). Molecular dynamics simulation of chemical reactions in polytetrafluoroethylene-based reactive materials. Journal of North University of China (Natural Science Edition), 45(02), 222–228.

  • Nie, Z., Xiao, J., Wang, Y., & Xie, Z. (2022). Mechanical properties and ignition reaction characteristics of THV-based reactive materials. Journal of China Ordnance, 43(12), 3030.

  • Xiao, J., Nie, Z., Wang, Z., Du, Y., & Tang, E. (2020). Energy release behavior of Al/PTFE reactive materials powder in a closed chamber. Journal of Applied Physics, 127(16), 165106.

  • Xiao, J., Wang, Z., Nie, Z., Tang, E., & Zhang, X. (2020). Evaluation of Hugoniot parameters for unreacted Al/PTFE reactive materials by modified SHPB test. AIP Advances, 10(4), 045211.

 

Sibel Dikmen Kucuk | Chemical Engineering | Best Industrial Research Award

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Dr. Sibel Dikmen Kucuk | Chemical Engineering | Best Industrial Research Award

Düzce University | Turkey

Dr. Sibel Dikmen Küçük is a distinguished researcher and lecturer at Düzce University, where she has been serving in the Rectorate. With a strong academic foundation in chemical and composite materials engineering, she has developed a dynamic research portfolio focused on sustainable materials, nanotechnology, and bio-based cosmetic applications. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Hacettepe University. Driven by a passion for advanced materials, she pursued her graduate studies at Düzce University’s Institute of Science, completing a thesis-based Master’s program in Composite Material Technologies. Her master’s thesis examined the impact of ultraviolet (UV) stabilizers on rubber-based automotive sealing profiles. Continuing her academic journey in the same field, she obtained her Ph.D. in Composite Material Technologies (Interdisciplinary). Her doctoral thesis explored the development of an innovative composite facial mask containing natural nanocellulose with stain-removing and ultra-moisturizing properties. Dr. Küçük has actively contributed to numerous national scientific research projects, including TÜBİTAK-supported studies. She has taken on both researcher and coordinator roles in over ten projects, reflecting her leadership and collaborative expertise. Her work spans various topics such as biopolymer-based EPDM profiles, botanical extract-infused cosmetics, activated carbon production from agricultural waste, and the development of dual-phase hair sprays for treating androgenic alopecia. She holds a national patent for a stain-removing facial serum containing bacterial nanocellulose, showcasing her commitment to practical innovation and product development. Her publication record includes several articles in respected international journals like South African Journal of Botany, BioResources, and the Journal of Rubber Research, alongside multiple national publications and conference proceedings. Her research contributions often bridge the gap between materials science and biotechnology, with an emphasis on green chemistry and sustainable product design. In addition to her academic achievements, Dr. Küçük has served as a consultant on cosmetic formulation projects involving bacterial nanocellulose and plant-based actives, further reflecting the translational impact of her research. Through her interdisciplinary work, she continues to advance the fields of composite materials, nanocellulose applications, and natural product-based innovations. With a growing reputation in both academic and industrial circles, Dr. Sibel Dikmen Küçük exemplifies the integration of scientific excellence, innovation, and societal relevance in research.

Profiles : ORCID | Scopus | Google Scholar | Research Gate

Featured Publications

  • Dikmen Küçük, S. (2025). Development and characterization of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber reinforced by green material lignin. Ömer Halisdemir Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi, 14(3), 1–8.

  • Kucuk, S. D., Grosso, A., Collet, G., Daniellou, R., & Koca Çalışkan, U. (2024). Effect of bacterial nanocellulose and plant-containing facial serum on hyperpigmentation in in-vitro conditions. BioResources, 19(2), 3208–3233.

  • Dikmen Küçük, S., & Uğraş, H. İ. (2024). Chemical modification of carbon black for coloring. Journal of Anatolian Environmental and Animal Sciences, 9(4), 832–838.

  • Dikmen Küçük, S., Tozluoğlu, A., Güner, Y., Arslan, R., & Sertkaya, S. (2022). Nano-fibrillenmiş selüloz / EPDM kompozitlerin mekanik, reolojik ve yaşlanma özellikleri. Artvin Çoruh Üniversitesi Orman Fakültesi Dergisi, 23(1), 1–12.

Nader Ghaffari Khaligh | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nader Ghaffari Khaligh | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Malaya, Malaysia

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Nader Ghaffari Khaligh embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Applied Chemistry, where he developed a strong foundation in chemical principles and practical applications. He further honed his expertise by earning a Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry from Shahid Beheshti University, specializing in advanced synthesis and chemical methodologies. His passion for organic synthesis and catalysis led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at the University of Guilan, Iran, where he focused on innovative catalytic systems and sustainable chemical transformations.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Since 2015, Dr. Khaligh has been a dedicated researcher at the Nanotechnology & Catalysis Research Center, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia. His work involves cutting-edge research in catalysis, sustainable chemistry, and novel chemical reagent development. He has actively collaborated with leading scientists and research institutions, contributing to the advancement of green chemistry and efficient catalytic processes. In addition to his research, he plays a crucial role in scientific publishing as the Associate Editor and Section Editor of two prestigious international journals and serves on the editorial board of several others.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Khaligh’s research is centered on both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis, focusing on sustainable energy solutions and environmentally friendly chemical transformations. His significant contributions include the development of ionic liquids, functional polymers, and novel multi-task reagents for efficient organic synthesis. His pioneering work in the synthesis of heterocycles and advanced catalytic systems has opened new avenues in medicinal and material chemistry. His research plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges related to energy, sustainability, and green chemistry.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Khaligh’s outstanding contributions to the scientific community have been recognized internationally. He has been honored as one of the World's Top 2% Scientists by Stanford University for six consecutive years (2019–2024), both in the Career-Long Citation Impact and Annual Recognition categories. His research has not only influenced academia but also industries focused on sustainable chemistry and innovative material design.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognitions

His extensive body of work, including research papers, reviews, and mini-reviews, has garnered widespread recognition, with numerous citations from fellow researchers. His publications have significantly contributed to advancements in catalysis, organic synthesis, and sustainable materials, earning him a strong academic reputation. As an editor and peer reviewer, he plays a key role in maintaining high standards in scientific publishing and guiding emerging researchers.

🛠️ Technical Skills and Expertise

Dr. Khaligh possesses expertise in various analytical and synthetic techniques, including:

  • Catalysis Development (Heterogeneous & Homogeneous)
  • Ionic Liquids and Functional Polymers
  • Synthesis of Heterocycles
  • Green and Sustainable Chemistry
  • Spectroscopic and Chromatographic Techniques (NMR, IR, Mass Spectrometry, HPLC, GC-MS)

🎓 Teaching and Mentorship Experience

Alongside his research, Dr. Khaligh is actively involved in academic mentorship and training young scientists. He has supervised and guided students in advanced chemical synthesis, catalysis, and materials research. His mentorship has helped shape the next generation of chemists and researchers, emphasizing innovative problem-solving and sustainable scientific practices.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a strong track record in research and scientific impact, Dr. Khaligh continues to explore new frontiers in green chemistry and sustainable catalysis. His future work aims to further enhance eco-friendly chemical processes, develop high-efficiency catalytic materials, and contribute to the advancement of cleaner, more sustainable industrial applications. His dedication to research, publication, and mentorship ensures a lasting legacy in the field of chemistry and catalysis.

📖Notable Publications

Synthesis and characterization of 5-cyclopentylsulfanyl-3H-[1,3,4]thiadiazole-2-thione and study of its single-crystal structure, FTIR spectra, thermal behavior, and antibacterial activity

Authors: N.F.A. Basir, Nurul Fatimah Abdul, M. Ghafarikhaligh, Mahta, M.R.B. Johan, Mohd Rafie Bin, N.G. Ghaffari Khaligh, Nader Ghaffari

Journal: Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry

Year: 2024

Synthesis, Characterization, and the Study of Thermal Behavior and Catalytic Activity of a Halogen-free Dicationic Ionic Liquid

Authors: L. Zaharani, Lia, S. Johari, Suzaimi, M.R.B. Johan, Mohd Rafie Bin, N.G. Ghaffari Khaligh, Nader Ghaffari

Journal: Catalysis Letters

Year: 2024

Tribological behavior of sulfonitrided tribofilm generated from non-corrosive dimercaptobenzothiadiazole-based additives as effective boundary lubrication layer

Authors: C. Ong, Chiuling, Y.C. Lai, Yew Chong, W.K. Tang, Wai Kit, N.G. Ghaffari Khaligh, Nader Ghaffari, J. Juan, Joonching

Journal: Journal of Molecular Liquids

Year: 2024

Determining the pKa1 and pKa2 Values of 4,4′-Trimethylenedipiperidine (TMDP), a Diprotic Organic Base with Unknown pKa Values

Authors: L. Zaharani, Lia, N.G. Ghaffari Khaligh, Nader Ghaffari

Journal: Journal of Solution Chemistry

Year: 2024

Bis[1,3-di(4-piperidinium)propane] di-hydrogensulfate mono-sulfate trihydrate: An organic molten salt containing simultaneous acceptor-donor hydrogen bonding and Brönsted acid for homogeneous catalysis

Authors: L. Zaharani, Lia, M.J. Rafie, Mohd Johan, N.G. Ghaffari Khaligh, Nader Ghaffari

Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure

Year: 2024