Fotis Rigas | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Greece

👨‍🎓Profiles

👨‍🎓 Early Academic Foundation

Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas was born in Athens, Greece, where he pursued his early education before enrolling at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) to complete his MSc in Chemical Engineering. His academic curiosity and passion for science led him to further achieve a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the same institution. To enhance his interdisciplinary knowledge, he also obtained a Master’s degree in Sanitary Engineering from the National School of Public Health (Greece).

🧪 Professional Trajectory and Industry Expertise

Dr. Rigas began his career as a Production and R&D Engineer at the Greek Powder Company, an ammunition and explosives manufacturer. He expanded his knowledge globally through specialized training in slurry explosives in the United States under the guidance of Prof. Melvin Cook of Utah University. Over the decades, he contributed as a consultant to several engineering and industrial firms in Greece, addressing challenges in pollution control, water chemistry, and gas enterprises. These roles solidified his expertise in chemical engineering applications within high-risk and regulated industries.

🎓 Academic Career and Teaching Excellence

Prof. Rigas held a long and distinguished academic tenure at the Department of Chemical Engineering, NTUA, rising through the ranks from Lecturer to Associate Professor. He also served as a Visiting Professor at esteemed institutions such as the Greek Fire Brigade Academy, the National School of Public Health (Greece and France), and the National Autonomous University of Mexico. His teaching portfolio is vast, covering subjects like Organic Chemical Technology, Science and Technology of Explosives, Environmental Science and Technology, Occupational Health and Safety, Polymer Science, Remediation of Contaminated Sites, and Quantitative Risk Analysis. His international experience in education enriched the learning experience for students across disciplines and continents.

🔬 Research Interests and Scientific Focus

Currently active as an independent author and researcher, Prof. Rigas continues to contribute to high-impact areas in environmental and chemical engineering. His research focuses on:

  1. Process safety and loss prevention – ensuring safer chemical processing systems.

  2. Fungal bioremediation – using fungi to clean contaminated environmental sites.

  3. Bacterial remediation of stone monuments – protecting cultural heritage using microbiological methods.

🌍 Multilingual and Multidisciplinary

Fluent in Greek (native), English, and French, Dr. Rigas has effectively communicated his research and teachings across borders, supporting international academic and industrial collaboration. His ability to work in diverse linguistic and cultural environments has strengthened his role as a global educator and innovator.

🏛️ Legacy and Continued Influence

Now retired from NTUA, Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas remains active as an independent author, sharing his extensive knowledge through publications, collaborations, and mentoring. His career spans decades of academic leadership, scientific innovation, and industrial consultation. A pioneer in the fields of explosive safety, environmental remediation, and occupational health, his contributions continue to influence chemical engineering education and sustainable environmental practices worldwide.

📖Notable Publications

Adsorption of humic acid on acid-activated Greek bentonite
Authors: D Doulia, C Leodopoulos, K Gimouhopoulos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, Volume 340 (2), Pages 131–141
Citations: 250
Year: 2009

Hazards, safety and knowledge gaps on hydrogen transmission via natural gas grid: A critical review
Authors: Z Labidine Messaoudani, F Rigas, M.D.B. Hamid, C.R.C. Hassan
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Volume 41 (39), Pages 17511–17525
Citations: 214
Year: 2016

Validation of turbulence models in heavy gas dispersion over obstacles
Authors: S Sklavounos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials, Volume 108 (1–2), Pages 9–20
Citations: 209
Year: 2004

Estimation of safety distances in the vicinity of fuel gas pipelines
Authors: S Sklavounos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries, Volume 19 (1), Pages 24–31
Citations: 207
Year: 2006

Evaluation of hazards associated with hydrogen storage facilities
Authors: F Rigas, S Sklavounos
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Volume 30 (13–14), Pages 1501–1510
Citations: 175
Year: 2005

Zhenzhao Pei | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Zhenzhao Pei | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Hebei University of Engineering, China 

Profiles

Scopus Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Zhenzhao Pei embarked on his academic journey with an exceptional foundation in chemical engineering. He earned his Ph.D. from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where his outstanding performance earned him the Outstanding Graduate Award—a prestigious accolade that foreshadowed a distinguished career. Following this, he broadened his research horizons as a Postdoctoral Fellow in Chemistry at Tsinghua University, working under the mentorship of renowned chemist Prof. Wang Xun. His global academic exposure expanded further with a visiting scholar position at California State University, Long Beach School, USA, enriching his perspective on international scientific practices.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Pei currently serves as a Professor and Director of Chemical Engineering at Hebei University of Engineering, where he has assumed numerous leadership roles. He is the Director of the Chemical Engineering Research Institute, and leads the Chemical Process Safety Research Team. In addition, he plays a pivotal role as the Discipline Leader of the Chemical Engineering Program, shaping the academic and strategic direction of the department.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Pei’s research portfolio spans key domains such as Novel Chemical Process Design, Industrial Catalysis and Reaction Engineering, Advanced Separation Technologies, and Environmental Chemical Engineering. His innovative work bridges the gap between fundamental chemical theory and real-world industrial applications, making his research highly relevant to both academia and the chemical industry. His contribution to chemical process safety, in particular, has established him as a thought leader in developing safer and more sustainable engineering solutions.

Impact and Influence

With over 40 research papers published, including more than 30 indexed in SCI journals, Dr. Pei has made a notable mark in leading publications like Fuel and Applied Surface Science. His research has supported more than 20 national and provincial-level grants, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and the Hebei Provincial Fund. Beyond academia, he has also collaborated extensively with industry, contributing to a number of high-impact R&D projects, showcasing the practical value of his work.

Academic Cites and Recognition

Dr. Pei’s scholarly output has been well-received by the academic community. While citation metrics are not listed, his publication in prestigious journals and sustained funding indicate a significant scholarly presence. His expertise has been further recognized by his appointment as a member of the Hebei Provincial Patent Expert Committee, and his leadership as the former Chair of the Postdoctoral Association of Chemistry at Tsinghua University.

Technical Skills and Expertise

His technical expertise encompasses chemical process engineering, catalysis, environmental technology, and separation science. His research is often characterized by the integration of theoretical modeling with experimental validation, ensuring high precision and practical relevance. Dr. Pei is also adept at leading multidisciplinary teams, managing large-scale research initiatives, and mentoring young scientists in advanced chemical methodologies.

Teaching Experience and Mentorship

As a professor and academic leader, Dr. Pei is deeply committed to education and mentorship. He is responsible for curriculum design, program coordination, and the supervision of undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. students. Through his teaching, he instills a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, while also fostering innovation and critical thinking among students.

Legacy and Future Contributions

With an already distinguished track record, Dr. Zhenzhao Pei continues to expand his influence in the fields of chemical process safety and sustainable industrial chemistry. His leadership in integrating environmental concerns into chemical engineering design positions him as a catalyst for future green innovations. Looking ahead, his continued collaboration with industry and academia promises further advancements in clean technology, process optimization, and environmental sustainability.

Notable Publications

Synthesis of low-temperature NH₃-SCR catalysts for MnOx with high SO₂ resistance using redox-precipitation method with mixed manganese sources
Authors: Zhenzhao Pei, Haiyang Zhao, Haipeng Wang, Guangxi Yu, Hao Wu
Journal: Applied Surface Science
Year: 2025

Influences of glycerol-assisted ultrasonic modification on the ultra-low temperature NH₃-SCR MnFeOx catalysts
Authors: Zhenzhao Pei, Zhuyue Fu, Haipeng Wang, Haoran Ni, Tao Guo
Journal: Fuel
Year: 2025

Investigation on denitrification performance of microwave synthesized high-efficiency MnOx catalysts for low-temperature NH₃-SCR
Authors: Zhenzhao Pei, Haipeng Wang, Haiyang Zhao, Chengye He, Zhuo Ji
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
Year: 2024

 

Yeshui Zhang | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yeshui Zhang | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Yeshui Zhang began her academic journey with a BSc in Environmental Management from the University of Birmingham, where she established a strong foundation for her multidisciplinary approach to energy and environmental engineering. She then pursued an MSc in Environmental & Energy Engineering at the University of Sheffield, working under the guidance of Prof. Agba Salman. Her academic path culminated in a PhD in Chemical & Process Engineering at the University of Leeds (2014–2017), where her thesis focused on hydrogen and carbon nanotube materials derived from the pyrolysis-catalysis of waste, supervised by Prof. Paul Williams and Dr. Chunfei Wu.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Zhang currently serves as a Lecturer in Chemical Engineering at the University of Aberdeen, a position she has held since December 2021. She contributes to both research and teaching within the School of Engineering. Prior to this, she held several research-intensive roles at University College London (UCL), including a prestigious Faraday Institution Research Fellowship (2019–2021) on the NEXTRODE project, which aimed to enhance operando metrology in Li-ion battery electrode manufacturing. From 2018 to 2019, she worked as a Postdoctoral Research Associate, developing quartz crystal microbalance techniques for high-temperature applications—an initiative funded by the Qatar National Research Fund. Dr. Zhang also provided consultancy to Alchemy TT Corporation in the U.S., focusing on carbon nanomaterials from waste plastics, and previously served as Overseas Outreach Manager for Nangyang Weiter Chemical in China.

🔬 Research Focus and Contributions

Dr. Zhang’s research lies at the intersection of sustainable energy, waste valorization, and advanced materials. Her areas of expertise include energy storage materials, lithium-ion battery manufacturing, hydrogen production, plastic waste pyrolysis-catalysis, and the synthesis of carbon nanotubes. She is pioneering new approaches in in-situ acoustic diagnostics and high-temperature quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) systems, advancing real-time analysis in energy materials research. Her work is firmly rooted in circular economy principles, particularly with respect to converting plastic waste into valuable energy resources.

🌱 Impact and Influence

Dr. Zhang’s work is making a significant impact on green technology development and sustainability. She offers scalable, practical solutions for transforming plastic waste into high-value materials such as hydrogen and carbon nanostructures. Her role in the NEXTRODE project is helping to reshape Li-ion battery manufacturing through improved metrological precision and efficiency, contributing meaningfully to the global transition toward low-carbon energy systems.

📈 Academic Citations and Recognition

While specific citation metrics are not provided, Dr. Zhang’s continuous involvement in high-profile research projects—such as those funded by the Faraday Institution and the Qatar National Research Fund—reflects her growing academic stature and the broad relevance of her work in chemical engineering, energy technology, and materials science.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Zhang possesses a diverse and advanced technical skill set, including expertise in pyrolysis-catalysis systems, high-temperature QCM analysis, operando measurement technologies, battery metrology, and the synthesis of nanomaterials from recycled waste. She is also developing innovative acoustic monitoring systems for in-situ diagnostics in complex energy environments.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As a Lecturer at the University of Aberdeen, Dr. Zhang is actively involved in teaching and mentoring students in chemical and process engineering. She brings her cutting-edge research into the classroom, inspiring innovation and real-world application among her students. Her interdisciplinary background allows her to teach across a range of topics, including energy systems, environmental remediation, and advanced materials.

🌍 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Zhang is positioned to become a leading figure in circular energy systems and sustainable battery technology development. Her future research will continue to integrate waste management with the creation of high-performance materials, particularly in the areas of green hydrogen and carbon-negative technologies. Through her academic and industrial partnerships, she is driving innovations that align with global sustainability goals and a cleaner, more efficient energy future.

📖Notable Publications

Catalysis and absorption behaviors of the shelled-hollow CaO-MgO microspheres on product distributions and desulfurization during waste tire fast pyrolysis
Authors: Qu, B.; Zhang, Y.; Wang, T.; Li, A.; Ji, G.
Journal: Fuel
Year: 2025

Effect of reduction temperatures of Ni-modified zeolites on the product distribution, catalyst deactivation, and reaction mechanism during polypropylene pyrolysis
Authors: Qu, B.; Wang, T.; Ji, X.; Zhang, Y.; Ji, G.
Journal: Fuel
Year: 2025

Pyrolysis-catalytic gasification of plastic waste for hydrogen-rich syngas production with hybrid-functional Ni-CaO–Ca₂SiO₄ catalyst
Authors: Qin, T.; Ji, G.; Qu, B.; Derksen, J.J.; Zhang, Y.
Journal: Carbon Capture Science and Technology
Year: 2025

Ni transformation and hydrochar properties during hydrothermal carbonization of cellulose
Authors: Zhao, P.; Yu, S.; Zhang, Y.; Zhang, Y.; Zhou, H.
Journal: Fuel
Year: 2025

Pyrolysis-catalysis of waste tire to enhance the aromatics selectivity via metal-modified ZSM-5 catalysts
Authors: Qu, B.; Zhang, Y.; Wang, T.; Li, A.; Ji, G.
Journal: Process Safety and Environmental Protection
Year: 2024

Zhongsheng Wang | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Analytical Chemistry

Mr. Zhongsheng Wang | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Central South University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🔬 Academic and Professional Background

Mr. Zhongsheng Wang is a Doctoral Candidate at Central South University, specializing in lithium battery electrolyte research. His academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to battery technology and regulation. His work has led to publications in high-impact journals, reflecting his dedication to advancing the field of energy storage.

⚡ Research and Innovations

Mr. Wang focuses on lithium battery electrolytes, with a particular interest in low-temperature lithium battery technology. His research explores novel strategies to improve battery performance, efficiency, and durability in extreme conditions. He has contributed to understanding battery interfacial reactions, proposing the bond-level control theory for electrode-electrolyte interfaces.

🏆 Completed/Ongoing Research Projects

His research spans various aspects of battery technology, including battery regulation techniques. As part of the Central South University Graduate Innovation Program, he has led multiple projects aimed at improving lithium battery performance in low-temperature environments.

📊 Citation Index and Contributions

Mr. Wang’s research has been recognized in the scientific community, with his work accumulating 8 citations. He has successfully analyzed battery system evolution processes and developed multiple low-temperature lithium battery systems, contributing to advancements in battery theory.

📑 Patents and Publications

Mr. Wang has published several papers in prestigious journals, including Advanced Functional Materials, Energy Material Advances, EcoMat, Journal of Alloys and Compounds, and Chemical Science. His innovative research has also resulted in two patents, further demonstrating his impact in the field.

🤝 Collaborations

Mr. Wang has collaborated with researchers on multiple studies, leading to publications in renowned journals such as Advanced Functional Materials and Colloids and Interface Chemistry in Chemical Science. These collaborations have strengthened the research and development of next-generation lithium batteries.

🔍 Areas of Research

  • Lithium Battery Electrolytes

  • Low-Temperature Lithium Battery Technology

  • Electrode-Electrolyte Interface Reactions

  • Battery Regulation Techniques

🌟 Future Contributions

Mr. Wang’s research continues to push the boundaries of battery technology, particularly in developing novel electrolyte formulations that enhance lithium battery performance at low temperatures. His work is expected to have a lasting impact on energy storage solutions, paving the way for next-generation batteries with improved efficiency and reliability.

📖Notable Publications

Vaishali Sahu | Environmental Engineering | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Vaishali Sahu | Environmental Engineering | Women Researcher Award

The NorthCap University, India

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Vaishali Sahu embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from SGSITS, Indore, laying the foundation for her expertise in engineering. She further specialized in Environmental Engineering by obtaining a Master’s degree from IIT Roorkee, one of India’s premier institutions. Her commitment to academic excellence culminated in a Ph.D. from The NorthCap University, Gurgaon, where she delved deeper into sustainable waste management and environmental engineering.

💼 Professional Endeavors

With over 16 years of experience, Dr. Sahu has established herself as a leader in academics, research, and administration. She currently holds the position of Associate Head and Associate Professor in the Department of Multidisciplinary Engineering at The NorthCap University, Gurgaon, Haryana. Additionally, she plays a crucial role as the Deputy Director of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), ensuring academic and research excellence at the university.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Sahu’s research interests span across solid and liquid waste management, sustainable waste management, water and wastewater treatment, pollution control, and environmental geotechnology. Her research and teaching contributions have significantly influenced advancements in waste recycling, resource management, and environmental sustainability.

She has:
✔️ Published over 42 research articles in renowned national and international journals.
✔️ Authored 2 books in the field of environmental engineering.
✔️ Presented 22+ research papers at prestigious conferences worldwide.
✔️ Supervised 4 Ph.D. theses, 20 M.Tech dissertations, and 20+ B.Tech projects focused on sustainable environmental solutions.
✔️ Currently guiding 10 Ph.D. scholars at The NorthCap University.

📊 Impact and Influence

Dr. Sahu’s contributions extend beyond academia into policy and practical applications of waste and water management. Her expertise has been recognized through research funding, including:
✅ DST-funded project (₹25.41 lakhs) – “Experimental and Numerical Study of Single Pile Capacity Adjacent to Existing Buried Pipe System” (Completed in 2020).
✅ Two international projects ($15,900) – Funded by Cintana Education in collaboration with universities from Mexico, Peru, and Egypt.

Her role as a reviewer for reputed international journals further highlights her influence in shaping research trends in environmental sustainability.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

Dr. Sahu’s work has garnered significant academic citations due to its impact in the domain of environmental engineering and sustainability. Her research findings have been referenced in multiple studies, contributing to policy frameworks, industrial applications, and further innovations in waste management and pollution control.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Sahu is proficient in:
✔️ Solid and Liquid Waste Management Techniques
✔️ Water and Wastewater Treatment Processes
✔️ Environmental Geotechnology
✔️ Air Pollution Control Strategies
✔️ Sustainable Infrastructure Planning

🎓 Teaching Experience

As an educator, Dr. Sahu has been instrumental in mentoring students and fostering research-driven learning. Her teaching experience includes:
📌 Guiding students in sustainable waste management and environmental conservation projects.
📌 Providing hands-on training in resource recycling and water purification technologies.
📌 Encouraging multidisciplinary approaches in civil and environmental engineering.

🌎 Legacy and Future Contributions

Beyond academia, Dr. Sahu is deeply committed to social and community development. She strongly advocates for volunteering and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of environmental awareness. Through her initiatives at NCU, she is shaping a community of responsible and environmentally conscious individuals.

Her future contributions are poised to drive:
🌍 Sustainable urban development through innovative waste management solutions.
🔬 Cutting-edge research in water treatment and pollution mitigation.
📘 Policy recommendations for improving environmental regulations.
👩‍🎓 Student-led research projects with real-world environmental impact.

📖Notable Publications

Stabilization of fly ash and lime sludge composites: Assessment of its performance as base course material

Authors: V Sahu, A Srivastava, AK Misra, AK Sharma

Journal: Archives of Civil and Mechanical Engineering

Year: 2017

A comparative study on the removal of heavy metals by adsorption using fly ash and sludge: A review

Authors: G Varma, RK Singh, V Sahu

Journal: International Journal of Application or Innovation in Engineering and …

Year: 2013

Development of geopolymer cement concrete for highway infrastructure applications

Authors: N Dave, V Sahu, AK Misra

Journal: Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology

Year: 2020

The use of fly ash and lime sludge as partial replacement of cement in mortar

Authors: V Sahu, V Gayathri

Journal: International Journal of Engineering and Technology Innovation

Year: 2014

Identification of watershed preference management areas under water quality and scarcity constraints: Case of Jhajjar district watershed, India

Authors: R Gupta, AK Misra, V Sahu

Journal: Applied Water Science

Year: 2019

Sustainability assessment of EPS-geofoam in road construction: A case study

Authors: DK Srivastava, A Srivastava, AK Misra, V Sahu

Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Engineering

Year: 2019