Xuteng Zhao | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Xuteng Zhao | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

👨‍🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Xuteng Zhao began his academic journey with a strong foundation in materials science, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Polymer Materials and Engineering from Northeast Forestry University (2012.09–2016.06). His early exposure to polymer science laid the groundwork for his multidisciplinary approach to energy and catalysis. Motivated by a deep interest in chemical processes, he pursued a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering and Technology at Harbin Engineering University (2016.09–2019.03), where he gained hands-on experience in process engineering and catalysis. His academic pursuits culminated in a Doctoral degree in Power Engineering and Engineering Thermophysics from Shanghai Jiao Tong University (2019.04–2022.12), marking a transition into the emerging field of electrochemical energy conversion.

👨‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Zhao continued his association with Shanghai Jiao Tong University as a Postdoctoral Fellow (2022.12–2024.11), contributing to cutting-edge research in electrochemical catalysis and thermophysical engineering. His commitment and research excellence led to his promotion as an Associate Researcher in March 2025, where he remains active in both scientific research and academic mentorship. His current role situates him at the forefront of hydrogen production technologies, particularly focusing on alcohol–ammonia-based hydrogen evolution systems.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zhao’s research is deeply rooted in the development and optimization of electrochemical catalysis technologies for sustainable energy. His primary research focus includes alcohol-ammonia hydrogen production, a promising route for clean hydrogen generation. By integrating principles of thermophysics and catalysis, he has worked on improving the energy efficiency and catalytic performance of these systems. His work bridges materials engineering with chemical process innovation, contributing to the next generation of green hydrogen production technologies.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his innovative research, Dr. Zhao has significantly contributed to the global discourse on renewable energy and hydrogen economy. His studies on novel catalytic materials and ammonia-fueled hydrogen systems are expected to influence future industrial hydrogen production models. By collaborating within interdisciplinary teams at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, he supports both academic development and practical technology deployment for carbon-neutral energy solutions.

📊 Academic Citations and Recognition

Though still early in his career, Dr. Zhao’s research has begun to attract attention in scholarly circles, particularly in electrochemical and energy materials communities. His articles are cited in studies related to electrocatalysis, fuel processing, and ammonia decomposition, contributing to an expanding body of literature in sustainable energy production.

🧪 Technical Skills and Expertise

Dr. Zhao has mastered a wide array of experimental and analytical techniques essential to catalysis and thermophysical studies. These include Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV), Tafel Polarization and Reaction Kinetics, Gas Chromatography for hydrogen quantification, and material characterization techniques such as SEM, XRD, BET, and FT-IR. He is also adept at designing custom experimental systems for lab-scale hydrogen production and catalytic performance evaluation.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience and Mentorship

As an associate researcher, Dr. Zhao actively participates in academic mentorship at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. He has guided graduate students in experimental design, data analysis, and manuscript preparation. His teaching approach emphasizes both theoretical understanding and hands-on experimentation, fostering the next generation of researchers in energy engineering.

🧭 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Zhao aims to establish himself as a leading researcher in hydrogen energy and catalysis. His future research will likely delve into scalable hydrogen production techniques, advanced electrocatalyst design, and integration of renewable resources with chemical fuel synthesis. He aspires to develop systems that are not only energy-efficient but also economically viable for real-world deployment. His dedication to clean energy solutions and academic excellence positions him as a promising contributor to the global clean-tech landscape.

📖Notable Publications

Electrically Driven Gaseous Ammonia Decomposition for Hydrogen Production over SiC-Mediated Catalyst without External Heating
Authors: Xiaochao Wang, Xuteng Zhao, Guangzhao Zhou, Ting Chen, Qi Chen, Nicolas Alonso-Vante, Zhen Huang, Yiran Zhang, He Lin
Journal: ACS Catalysis
Year: 2025

The influence of phosphorus and CO poisoning on Pd/SSZ-13 with different Al distributions as passive NOx adsorbers
Authors: Yinan Wang, Jiaqi Feng, Ting Chen, Xuteng Zhao, Rijing Zhan, He Lin
Journal: Separation and Purification Technology
Year: 2024

Nonthermal-Plasma-Catalytic Ammonia Synthesis Using Fe₂O₃/CeO₂ Mechanically Mixed with Al₂O₃: Insights into the Promoting Effect of Plasma Discharge Enhancement on the Role of Catalysts
Authors: Guangzhao Zhou, Ziyu Wang, Xiaochao Wang, Yiran Zhang, Xuteng Zhao, Qi Chen, Ting Chen, Zhen Huang, He Lin
Journal: ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering
Year: 2024

The interaction between Pd/CeO₂ crystal surface and electric field: Application to complete oxidation of methane
Authors: Xuteng Zhao, Yinan Wang, Zuwei Zheng, Xuehong Chen, Ting Chen, He Lin
Journal: Separation and Purification Technology
Year: 2024

Enhancing the NOx storage and hydrothermal stability of Pd/SSZ-13 passive NOx adsorbers by regulating the Al distributions
Authors: Yinan Wang, Xuteng Zhao, Ting Chen, Zuwei Zheng, Rijing Zhan, He Lin
Journal: Fuel
Year: 2024

Nini Wen | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Nini Wen | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Nini Wen began her academic journey with a strong foundation in chemical engineering and materials science, culminating in the award of her Ph.D. in 2023. Shortly thereafter, she joined Zhejiang Sci-Tech University as a lecturer, where she continues to advance research at the intersection of environmental catalysis and materials chemistry.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Since her appointment, Dr. Wen has dedicated her academic career to the study and development of Selective Catalytic Reduction-Hydrocarbon (SCR-HC) catalysts, particularly focusing on novel catalytic systems like metal oxides, pillared interlayered clays (PILC), layered double hydroxides (LDHs), and atomic clusters. Her methodical approach integrates catalyst design with advanced characterization techniques to uncover fundamental catalytic properties and reaction mechanisms. She has completed one foundational research project and currently leads two additional national-level foundation projects, underscoring her growing research independence and leadership.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Wen’s cutting-edge research lies in environmental pollution control and catalytic materials, particularly LDH-based catalysts for SCR-HC reactions. LDHs, known as emerging 2D layered materials, have seldom been utilized in this field. Her innovative work includes designing binary and ternary LDH catalysts, which leverage the synergistic effects of multi-metal components to enhance catalytic activity. She has thoroughly explored the impact of synergy on both the intrinsic physicochemical properties and catalytic mechanisms. Furthermore, her studies address real-world challenges by investigating how poisoning species such as H₂O, SO₂, and alkali metals influence catalyst performance and structural stability, making her contributions highly relevant for industrial applications.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Wen has made a significant mark in the catalysis community with over 20 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals including the Chemical Engineering Journal, Fuel, Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, and Molecular Catalysis. Her work continues to inspire new approaches in designing resilient and efficient environmental catalysts, positioning her as a promising young scholar in the field of applied catalysis.

📈 Academic Citations

Although early in her independent career, Dr. Wen’s publications are gaining recognition in the academic world, with citations steadily increasing. Her focus on mechanistic insight and application-driven research makes her work valuable for both academic studies and industrial implementations in pollution mitigation technologies.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Wen possesses a broad suite of experimental and analytical techniques essential to modern catalysis research. These include X-ray diffraction (XRD), BET surface area analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), temperature-programmed desorption/reduction (TPD/TPR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), among others. These tools support her rigorous examination of structure-performance relationships in catalytic systems.

👩‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

As a lecturer, Dr. Wen is actively involved in undergraduate and graduate instruction. She integrates her research findings into the classroom to foster scientific curiosity and train students in environmental engineering and materials chemistry, laying the groundwork for future researchers.

🤝 Professional Memberships

Dr. Wen is a member of the Chemical Industry and Engineering Society of China, through which she engages in professional development and collaborative opportunities, staying current with trends in catalysis and environmental remediation technologies.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Wen’s pioneering work in LDH-based SCR-HC catalysis and pollution control positions her at the forefront of sustainable environmental technologies. Her future plans include exploring atomically dispersed catalysts, enhancing low-temperature catalytic activity, and developing next-generation catalyst systems with improved tolerance to industrial poisons. Her work is expected to play a vital role in the global effort to reduce industrial emissions and transition toward greener technologies.

📖Notable Publications

Preparation and de-NOₓ performance of C₃H₆-SCR over Cu-SAPO-44 catalyst
Authors: Zhou, H.; Zhang, H.; Wen, N.; Wang, X.; Xu, L.; Li, W.; Su, Y.
Journal: Chemical Industry and Engineering Progress
Year: 2023

Research on resistance of CuxNiyFez-LDHs derived catalysts to poisoning components and insight into the complex role of SO₂ on C₃H₆-SCR performance
Authors: Wen, N.; Zhou, H.; Ning, S.; Hu, M.; Deng, W.; Zhao, B.; Su, Y.
Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering
Year: 2023

Research progress on supported Cu-based zeolite catalysts for the selective catalytic reduction of NOₓ with hydrocarbons
Authors: Ning, S.; Su, Y.; Yang, H.; Wen, N.
Journal: Chemical Industry and Engineering Progress
Year: 2023

Selective catalytic reduction of nitric oxide with propylene over one-step synthesized Cu-SAPO-44 catalysts
Authors: Zhang, H.; Zhou, H.; Wen, N.-N.; Wang, X.-R.; Xu, L.; Su, Y.-X.
Journal: Journal of Fuel Chemistry and Technology
Year: 2022

Study on CH₄-SCR performance by Ga-Fe catalysts supported on Ti-pillared interlayered clays (Ti-PILC)
Authors: Xu, G.-Q.; Su, Y.-X.; Wen, N.-N.; Zhang, H.; Liu, Q.; Deng, W.-Y.; Zhou, H.
Journal: Journal of Molecular Catalysis
Year: 2022

Synergy of CuNiFe-LDH based catalysts for enhancing low-temperature SCR-C₃H₆ performance: Surface properties and reaction mechanism
Authors: Wen, N.; Su, Y.; Deng, W.; Zhou, H.; Hu, M.; Zhao, B.
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Year: 2022

 

Yang Liu | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yang Liu | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Shaanxi University of Technology, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Education Background

Dr. Yang Liu pursued his academic journey in the field of chemistry, specializing in organic synthesis and materials chemistry. He earned his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Wuhan University (2007-2010), one of China’s top institutions known for its excellence in scientific research. Prior to that, he completed his M.S. in Pesticide Science at Huazhong Normal University (2004-2007), where he developed expertise in chemical applications for agriculture and materials science. His strong educational foundation has equipped him with the skills to advance research in organic synthesis and material chemistry.

🏛️ Professional Experience

Dr. Liu has been an integral part of the Shaanxi University of Technology since 2011, where he has contributed extensively to research and education in organic and materials chemistry. His tenure at the university has been marked by innovative research, mentorship of students, and collaborations in interdisciplinary scientific projects. His work focuses on the development of new organic compounds and material applications, helping to bridge the gap between fundamental chemistry and industrial applications.

🔬 Research Interests and Contributions

Dr. Liu’s research primarily revolves around organic synthesis and materials chemistry, two fundamental areas that drive advancements in pharmaceuticals, polymers, and functional materials. His expertise in organic chemistry enables him to design and synthesize novel compounds, while his focus on materials chemistry allows him to explore their potential applications in nanotechnology, coatings, and sustainable materials. His contributions have significant implications for industrial development, environmental sustainability, and advanced material engineering.

📚 Academic Impact and Influence

Dr. Liu’s research has contributed to the advancement of chemical synthesis techniques and material applications, influencing both academic research and industry practices. His work is instrumental in addressing challenges in organic material development, pesticide formulation, and new material innovations. As a researcher and educator, he has played a vital role in training the next generation of chemists and materials scientists at Shaanxi University of Technology.

🛠️ Technical Expertise

With a strong background in organic chemistry, Dr. Liu possesses expertise in synthetic methodologies, reaction mechanisms, and material characterization techniques. His work involves advanced chemical analysis, spectroscopic methods (NMR, IR, UV-Vis), chromatography techniques (HPLC, GC-MS), and material testing. His interdisciplinary approach integrates chemical engineering and materials science, making significant contributions to applied chemistry research.

🎓 Teaching and Mentorship

As a professor at Shaanxi University of Technology, Dr. Liu has been dedicated to mentoring students, guiding research projects, and promoting scientific innovation. His teaching focuses on organic chemistry, reaction mechanisms, and materials chemistry, ensuring that students develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. His mentorship has helped students engage in cutting-edge research and contribute to the field of applied chemistry.

🌍 Future Contributions and Legacy

Dr. Yang Liu’s work continues to shape the future of organic synthesis and materials science, contributing to sustainable chemical development, novel material applications, and advancements in industrial chemistry. As global industries focus more on green chemistry and innovative material design, his expertise will play a crucial role in developing environmentally friendly and high-performance materials. His contributions to academic research, student mentorship, and interdisciplinary scientific collaboration ensure a lasting impact on the field of chemistry.

📖Notable Publications

The Development and Preparation of Novel Gel Emulsion Systems Based on a Cholesterol Star-Shaped Derivative
Authors: Shuaihua Liu, Tian Yao, Donghui Xia, Quan Liu, Guanghui Tian, Yang Liu
Journal: Molecules
Year: 2025

The Development and Preparation of Novel Gel Emulsion Systems Based on a Cholesterol Star-Shaped Derivative
Authors: Yang Liu
Journal: Molecules
Year: 2025

Synthesis of a Cholesterol Derivative and Its Application in Gel Emulsion Preparation
Authors: Yang Liu, Shuaihua Liu, Qiang Zhang, Guanghui Tian
Journal: Molecules
Year: 2024

Progress in Preparation and Application of Gel-Emulsions
Authors: Yang Liu, Shuaihua Liu, Junhong Wang, Qiang Zhang, Guanghui Tian
Journal: Journal of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering
Year: 2024

The mini-review for synthesis of core@Ag nanocomposite
Authors: Rui Wu, Fagen Zhang, Xiaohui Ji, Yang Liu, Xiaohua Guo, Gunghui Tian, Bo Liu
Journal: Arabian Journal of Chemistry
Year: 2022

Natthawan Prasongthum | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Natthawan Prasongthum | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Khon Kaen University, Thailand

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Natthawan Prasongthum has a strong academic background in petrochemistry and chemistry. She graduated with First Class Honors in Chemistry (B.Sc.) from Ubonratchathani University, Thailand. She then completed her M.S. in Petrochemistry and Polymer Science (GPA 3.67) and earned a Ph.D. in Petrochemistry with a perfect GPA of 4.00 from Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok. Her early academic focus laid the groundwork for her later specialization in carbon materials and clean energy solutions.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Prasongthum is currently a Lecturer at the Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University, where she teaches Battery Science and New Energy to undergraduate students. Prior to this, she was a dedicated Researcher at the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR), where she focused on renewable energy, CO2 capture, carbon materials, and catalyst development. Her international experience includes serving as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Regina, Canada, where she contributed to cutting-edge research on Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technology.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Prasongthum’s research is centered on advancing technologies in carbon capture and utilization (CCU), focusing on CO2 conversion and storage through innovative catalytic processes. She specializes in synthesizing heterogeneous catalysts, zeolites, and carbon-based materials for environmental and energy-related applications. Her work extends into the development of carbon materials for energy storage devices like supercapacitors and batteries, as well as sustainable fuel production methods.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With a mission to contribute to global clean energy transitions, Prof. Prasongthum is committed to addressing the challenges of climate change through carbon-neutral solutions. Her interdisciplinary expertise in material science, catalysis, and renewable energy technologies is helping shape more sustainable and circular energy systems, aligning with global net-zero carbon goals.

📚 Academic Contributions

Prof. Prasongthum has authored multiple research reports, scientific publications, and proposals related to CO2 utilization and energy storage materials. She has also been actively involved in mentoring undergraduate students, interns, and volunteers, helping to foster the next generation of researchers in the field of clean energy and advanced materials.

🧪 Technical Skills

Her technical skillset includes the design and synthesis of heterogeneous catalysts, development of carbon materials, CO2 capture and utilization technologies (CCUS), renewable energy systems, and energy storage materials. Additionally, she is proficient in data analysis, research proposal writing, and project management in R&D settings.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Currently, as a Lecturer at Khon Kaen University, Prof. Prasongthum teaches core subjects related to Battery Science and New Energy. She brings a wealth of research knowledge to the classroom, blending theoretical concepts with hands-on insights from her industry and academic research background.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Prasongthum’s future vision is to continue advancing sustainable technologies for carbon capture and energy storage. She aims to lead research projects that will pave the way for innovative CCUS technologies, novel carbon-based materials, and eco-friendly energy solutions, contributing to Thailand’s and the global community’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

📖Notable Publications

Hydrothermal synthesis of calcium methoxide nano-catalyst for palm oil based biolubricant production
Authors: L. Attanatho, A. Suemanotham, Y. Thanmongkhon, S. Kaewmala, N. Prasongthum
Journal: Molecular Catalysis
Year: 2025

High-Porosity Hydrochar From Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches Via Single-Step Hydrolytic Agent-Assisted Hydrothermal Carbonization
Authors: W. Sisuthog, N. Prasongthum, P. Natewong, P. Reubroycharoen
Journal: Indonesian Journal of Science and Technology
Year: 2024

Fibrous Platelet Carbon Nanofibers-Silica Fiber Composite Supports for a Co-based Catalyst in the Steam Reforming of Acetic Acid
Authors: P. Natewong, N. Prasongthum, P. Reubroycharoen
Journal: Applied Catalysis A
Year: 2018

Investigation of Ni/SiO2 Fiber Catalysts Prepared by Different Methods on Hydrogen Production from Ethanol Steam Reforming
Authors: S. Mhadmhan, P. Natewong, N. Prasongthum, C. Samart, P. Reubroycharoen
Journal: Catalysts
Year: 2018

Solvent Regeneration of a CO2-Loaded BEA-AMP Bi-blend Amine Solvent with the aid of a Solid Brønsted Ce(SO4)2/ZrO2 Super-Acid Catalyst
Authors: N. Prasongthum, P. Natewong, P. Reubroycharoen, R. Idem
Journal: Energy Fuels
Year: 2018

Synthesis of Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) over Ni/MgO Catalyst from CH4/CO2 and its Application for CO2 Absorption in BEA-AMP Bi-solvent Blend
Authors: P. Natewong, N. Prasongthum, P. Reubroycharoen, R. Idem
Journal: CleanEnergy
Year: 2019

Evaluating the CO2 Capture Performance using a BEA-AMP Bi-blend Amine Solvent with Novel High-Performing Absorber and Desorber Catalysts in a Bench-Scale CO2 Capture Pilot Plant
Authors: P. Natewong, N. Prasongthum, P. Reubroycharoen, R. Idem
Journal: Energy Fuels
Year: 2019