Zhiqaing Yang | Thermodynamics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Zhiqaing Yang | Thermodynamics | Best Researcher Award

Xi’an Modern Chemistry Research Institute, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Yang’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from Dalian University, where he developed a strong foundation in chemical sciences. He further pursued a Master’s degree in Applied Chemistry at MCRI, under the supervision of Prof. Lu Jian, focusing on catalysis and chemical processes related to fluorine-based compounds. Seeking to expand his expertise, he completed a Ph.D. in Power Engineering and Engineering Thermodynamics from Xi’an Jiaotong University, where he worked under Prof. Jiangtao Wu, specializing in thermodynamic properties and fluid behavior in industrial applications.

🏢 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Yang has been actively involved in research and development at MCRI, holding various positions. As an Engineer in the Department of Catalysis and Chemical Process, he focused on HFO synthesis and chemical separation techniques. Later, as an Associate Researcher, he played a crucial role in the development of thermodynamic equipment and the study of HFO properties. Expanding his research internationally, he served as a Visiting Scholar at Mines ParisTech-PSL, CTP, under the supervision of Prof. Christophe Coquelet, where he conducted experimental studies on phase equilibrium for high-temperature heat pump working fluids. Currently, as a Researcher at the State Key Laboratory of Fluorine & Nitrogen Chemicals, he leads projects focused on experimental measurement and thermodynamic predictions for insulating gases and their environmental impact.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Yang’s research spans across various domains, including hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) synthesis and separation, thermodynamic property analysis, high-temperature heat pump working fluids, and environmentally friendly insulating gases. His work has significantly contributed to industrial refrigerants and insulation technologies, enhancing sustainability in chemical engineering and reducing the environmental footprint of industrial processes. His efforts in process simulation and modeling of multisystem thermodynamics during HFO preparation have improved efficiency and reliability in industrial applications.

💰 Funded Research Projects

Dr. Yang has secured multiple research grants, highlighting his leadership in high-impact projects. He is the Program Director of R&D and Application of New Environmentally Friendly Insulating Gases, funded by China Southern Power Grid Co. Ltd, with a funding of 5.5 million RMB. Additionally, he led the Technical Research on the Physical and Chemical Properties of Insulating Gases, supported by Sinochem Group Co. Ltd, with a funding of 194,000 RMB. His long-term project, Thermodynamic Properties and Process Simulation of Multisystem During Hydrofluoroolefin Preparation, received another 5.5 million RMB in funding from Sinochem Group Co. Ltd. Earlier in his career, he directed research on Thermophysical Properties of Low-GWP HFO and HFC Mixtures and Their Solubility in Lubricant, funded by the Industrial Ministry of Shaanxi Province for 200,000 RMB. He has also served as a key researcher in several national projects funded by the Industry and Ministry of Science and Technology of China.

📊 Impact and Influence

Dr. Yang’s research has had a profound impact on both academic and industrial sectors. His studies on low-GWP refrigerants and insulating gases contribute directly to global environmental efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By developing sustainable alternatives to traditional high-GWP chemicals, his work aligns with international climate policies and promotes energy-efficient chemical processes. His advancements in thermodynamic modeling and experimental research have improved industrial operations and enhanced the efficiency of chemical processes in refrigeration, insulation, and heat transfer applications.

📚 Academic Citations and Publications

Dr. Yang’s research findings have been published in renowned scientific journals and presented at leading international conferences. His work is frequently cited in chemical engineering, thermodynamics, and industrial chemistry, reinforcing his reputation as a thought leader in the field.

🛠️ Technical Skills

With extensive expertise in chemical process engineering, Dr. Yang specializes in HFO synthesis, separation techniques, and thermodynamic modeling. His skill set includes experimental measurements, phase equilibrium modeling, and high-temperature heat pump fluid analysis. He is proficient in advanced analytical techniques such as chromatography, spectroscopy, and calorimetry, which are essential for his research in chemical thermodynamics and process optimization.

🎓 Teaching and Mentorship

Dr. Yang has been actively involved in mentoring graduate students and early-career researchers, sharing his expertise in fluorine-based chemistry and thermodynamics. His collaborations with international institutions and industry partners have facilitated knowledge exchange and technological advancements, fostering the next generation of chemists and engineers.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a pioneer in green chemistry solutions, Dr. Yang aims to continue his research in environmentally friendly gases and sustainable industrial applications. His work on thermodynamic modeling and heat transfer technologies will contribute to energy-efficient, eco-friendly industrial processes. With a passion for innovation, he remains dedicated to training future experts in chemistry and chemical engineering, ensuring that his contributions leave a lasting impact on scientific progress and environmental sustainability.

📖Notable Publications

  • Investigation of vapor liquid equilibria for HFO-1336mzz(E) + HFC-1234ze(E) binary system by a novel developed cyclic-analytical apparatus

    • Authors: Zhiqiang Yang, Yuanhao Liao, Hong Yuan, Xiaobo Tang, Christophe Coquelet, Jijun Zeng, Sheng Han, Wei Zhang, Jian Lu

    • Journal: Fluid Phase Equilibria

    • Year: 2025

  • Discovery of a novel binary azeotrope with positive synergistic insulation strength as eco-friendly SF6-alternative

    • Authors: Yuyang Yao, Zhiqiang Yang, Boya Zhang, Xingwen Li, Mai Hao, Nian Tang, Dongwei Sun, Jian Lu

    • Journal: Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics

    • Year: 2025

  • Experimental measurements and correlation of vapor–liquid equilibrium data for the difluoromethane (R32) + 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234ze(E)) binary system from 254 to 348 K

    • Authors: Pierre Six, Alain Valtz, Yulong Zhou, Zhiqiang Yang, Christophe Coquelet

    • Journal: Fluid Phase Equilibria

    • Year: 2024

  • Synthesis, Characterization, and Physicochemical Properties of New [Emim][BF₃X] Complex Anion Ionic Liquids

    • Authors: Jijun, Bo Zhao, Yu An, Xiao-Bo Tang, Sheng Han, Zhi-Qiang Yang, Wei Zhang, Jian Lu

    • Journal: ACS Omega

    • Year: 2024

  • Synthesis of Perfluoro Alkyl/Alkenyl Aryl Sulfide: C−S Coupling Reaction Using Hexafluoropropylene Dimer (HFPD) as a Building Block

    • Authors: Yu An, Ji‐Jun Zeng, Xiao‐Bo Tang, Bo Zhao, Sheng Han, Zhi‐Qiang Yang, Wei Zhang, Jian Lu

    • Journal: European Journal of Organic Chemistry

    • Year: 2024

  • Isothermal Vapor–Liquid Equilibrium for the Binary System of Trans-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene and 1,1,1,3,3-Pentafluoropropane

    • Authors: Nian Tang, Wenguo Gu, Dongwei Sun, Xiaobo Tang, Zhiqiang Yang, Jian Lu

    • Journal: International Journal of Thermophysics

    • Year: 2023

  • Critical properties and vapor-liquid equilibrium of two near-azeotropic mixtures containing HFOs

    • Authors: Zhiqiang Yang, Alain Valtz, Christophe Coquelet, Jiangtao Wu, Jian Lu

    • Journal: International Journal of Refrigeration

    • Year: 2022

 

Frank Efe | Nanotechnology | Material Chemistry Award

Mr. Frank Efe | Nanotechnology | Material Chemistry Award

Morgan State University, United States

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Frank Efe's academic journey began at Ibadan Grammar School in Nigeria, where he built a strong foundation in the sciences. His passion for physics and materials science led him to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Physics with Electronics at Ekiti State University, where he graduated with a commendable CGPA of 4.1/5.0. His thirst for knowledge drove him further, leading him to Obafemi Awolowo University for a Master of Science in Material Physics, focusing on semiconductor and ferromagnetic thin-film materials.

His academic excellence and research potential brought him to the United States, where he earned another Master of Science in Physics at Morgan State University, achieving an impressive CGPA of 3.9/4.0. His research in thin-film materials and nanotechnology positioned him as a rising scholar in the field.

👨‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Frank Efe's professional career blends both research and data analytics. As a materials scientist, he specializes in the synthesis and characterization of semiconductor and ferromagnetic thin films, which have applications in cutting-edge technologies such as spintronics, solar cells, and sensors. His expertise includes using advanced characterization techniques like X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy.

Beyond research, he also worked on a National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded project as a data analyst, where he assessed students' motivation, curiosity, and success rates. This interdisciplinary experience showcases his ability to bridge scientific research with educational development.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Frank’s research centers on thin-film materials, particularly iron-platinum nanomaterials, which have extensive applications in magnetic storage devices, reflective coatings, and high-power electronic devices. His recent focus is on the development of 2D semiconductor materials that exhibit superior high-temperature and high-power performance, making them ideal for next-generation electronics and energy devices.

His ability to synthesize, analyze, and optimize materials for industrial applications demonstrates his deep expertise in nanotechnology and material physics.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Frank’s work has gained recognition both in academic circles and professional communities. His contributions in thin-film research and semiconductor materials are paving the way for advancements in energy-efficient electronics and durable electronic components.

His leadership and contributions have earned him numerous awards, including:
✅ Award of Recognition, Morgan State University, Physics Department (2023)
✅ Sigma Pi Sigma Award for high scholarship and service in Physics & Astronomy (2023)
✅ Academic Achievement Trailblazer Award, Morgan State University (2023)
✅ Best Paper Award, ASEE Conference, Baltimore Convention Centre (2023)

📚 Academic Citations and Publications

Frank’s research outputs are gaining traction within the scientific community. His work has been cited in multiple journals and conferences, particularly in the areas of thin-film materials, nanotechnology, and semiconductor physics. His recognition at ASEE and Morgan State University symposiums further underscores his impact as a researcher.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Frank possesses a diverse set of technical skills, including expertise in:
✔ Material synthesis & thin-film deposition techniques
✔ X-ray diffractometry (XRD) & Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
✔ Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM) & Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)
✔ UV-Vis Spectrophotometry & Raman Spectroscopy
✔ Four-point probe measurements for electrical characterization
✔ Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA)
✔ Data analysis & statistical modeling (NSF-funded research experience)

🎓 Teaching and Mentorship Experience

Frank has not only contributed to research but has also mentored students and assisted in laboratory experiments at Morgan State University. His involvement in physics education and mentoring younger scientists ensures the transfer of knowledge and the nurturing of future materials scientists.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Frank Efe is committed to pushing the boundaries of nanomaterial research and advancing semiconductor technology. His long-term goal is to contribute to the development of high-performance, sustainable electronic materials that will shape the future of energy storage, computing, and advanced electronics.

📖Notable Publications

Microstructure and Corrosion Resistance of Pyrolyzed Mg – ZnO Thin Film Coatings on Mild Steel

Authors: Victor Adewale Owoeye, Mojisola Olubunmi Nkiko, Frank O. Efe, Abiodun Eyitayo Adeoye, Enoch Debayo Ogunmola, Ayodele Nicholas Orelusi

Journal: Chemistry of Inorganic Materials

Year: 2025

Synthesis and Characterization of Zinc Cobalt Sulphide Nanofilms for Optoelectronic Applications

Authors: Joseph Onyeka Emegha, Kenneth Onyenike, Rita Omamuyovwi Jolayemi, Chioma Adaku Ejelonu, Frank Efe, Odunayo Tope Ojo

Journal: Chemistry of Inorganic Materials

Year: 2024

Engaging University Students in Practical Physics Labs through Motivational Active Learning

Authors: Oluwapemiisin Akingbola, Pelumi Abiodun, Oludare Owolabi, Frank Efe, Hannah Abedoh

Journal: Conference Paper

Year: 2024

Deposition of Stoichiometry-Tailored Amorphous Cu-S Thin Films by MOCVD Technique

Authors: Olofinjana Bolutife, Fabunmi Tobiloba Grace, Efe Frank Ochuko, Fasakin Oladepo, Adebisi Adebowale Clement, Eleruja Marcus Adebola, Akinwunmi Olumide Oluwole, Ajayi Ezekiel Oladele Bolarinwa

Journal: Phase Transitions

Year: 2023

Magnetic Relaxation in Epitaxial Films with In-Plane and Out-of-Plane Anisotropies

Authors: Abdellah Lisfi, Frank Efe, Manfred Wuttig

Journal: Applied Physics A

Year: 2023