Zewen Li | Nickel Slag | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Zewen Li | Nickel Slag | Best Researcher Award

Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology | China

Mr. Zewen Li is a dedicated researcher at Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, specializing in sustainable metallurgical processes. His work focuses on the resource utilization of metallurgical solid waste, particularly in the reductive recovery and diversified application of nickel slag. With a strong passion for green metallurgy, Zewen has contributed to advancing environmentally friendly approaches to metal recovery while exploring new uses for industrial by-products. His academic endeavors include authoring impactful publications, such as a review in Minerals Engineering that highlights the extraction of valuable metals and the potential of nickel slag in various material applications. Zewen is committed to integrating scientific research with industrial practice to promote circular economy principles and reduce environmental impact. As a young professional, he strives to advance metallurgical innovation, aiming to develop cleaner, safer, and more efficient technologies for the sustainable management of critical resources.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Mr. Zewen Li pursued his higher education at Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, where he developed a strong foundation in metallurgical engineering. His academic training emphasized the theoretical and applied aspects of metallurgy, with particular attention to solid waste resource recovery and sustainable metal extraction. During his studies, he actively engaged in research projects centered on the utilization of nickel slag, gaining expertise in analyzing its physical and chemical properties, as well as its potential for industrial reuse. His education provided him with a deep understanding of chemical thermodynamics, extractive metallurgy, and material characterization techniques. Through rigorous coursework, laboratory work, and collaborative projects, Zewen honed his ability to integrate scientific knowledge with practical industrial applications. This educational background not only equipped him with specialized knowledge in non-ferrous metallurgy but also cultivated his research-oriented mindset, enabling him to contribute meaningfully to the growing field of sustainable metallurgical processes.

Experience

Mr. Zewen Li’s professional and research experience has centered on the efficient recovery and sustainable utilization of metallurgical solid waste, with a strong focus on nickel slag. At Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, he has undertaken significant research projects, including his notable publication “Diversified Utilization of Nickel Slag: A Review” in Minerals Engineering. His work systematically analyzed methods of extracting valuable metals such as iron, nickel, cobalt, and copper from nickel slag and investigated applications in gelling materials, glass ceramics, and material-related industries. Beyond laboratory research, Zewen has contributed to understanding the broader implications of waste valorization in metallurgical industries by reviewing and proposing strategies for combining nickel slag recovery with battery recycling and secondary waste management. His experience reflects both technical expertise and innovative thinking in sustainable metallurgy. This professional trajectory highlights his commitment to addressing environmental challenges and developing efficient, eco-friendly solutions for industrial waste management.

Research Focus

Mr. Zewen Li’s research is primarily focused on the sustainable utilization of metallurgical solid waste, with particular emphasis on nickel slag. His work aims to explore the dual goals of resource recovery and environmental protection by investigating eco-friendly processes for extracting valuable metals such as Fe, Ni, Co, and Cu. He is also deeply interested in the potential applications of nickel slag in materials science, including its use in gelling agents, glass ceramics, and construction materials. His studies address both the theoretical mechanisms, including leaching, weathering process strengthening, and solvent extraction, and the practical industrial feasibility of these methods. Additionally, he considers the integration of nickel slag recycling with other waste management systems, such as battery recycling and secondary waste utilization, thereby contributing to broader strategies of sustainable resource management. His research reflects a holistic view of metallurgy, balancing technological innovation with environmental responsibility to promote circular economy practices.

Publication top Notes

Title: Diversified Utilization of Nickel Slag: A Review

Year: 2025

Conclusion

Mr. Zewen Li’s research demonstrates a commendable commitment to addressing pressing environmental and industrial challenges through sustainable metallurgical practices. His focused work on the comprehensive utilization of nickel slag reflects both academic insight and awareness of real-world applications. While his current achievements illustrate strong potential and emerging expertise, the scope and maturity of his portfolio are still developing. For the Best Researcher Award, which typically honors individuals with a sustained record of impactful innovations and broader academic leadership, further scholarly contributions and practical implementations would enhance his competitiveness. Nonetheless, his trajectory indicates significant promise, and he stands out as a valuable contributor to the next generation of metallurgical researchers, well-suited for early-career recognition and future leadership in the field.

Aleksandar Savic | Sustainable Metal | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aleksandar Savic | Sustainable Metal | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at University of Belgrade Faculty of Civil Engineering, Serbia.

Dr. Aleksandar Savić is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Belgrade. He earned his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering with a focus on self-compacting concrete incorporating industrial by-products. With over 20 years of academic and professional experience, he has contributed significantly to construction materials science, particularly sustainable materials. Dr. Savić has authored over 150 scientific papers, including 13 in SCI-indexed journals, and several textbooks and technical publications. He has led or participated in national and international research projects and contributed to technical regulations in Serbia. Dr. Savić also serves as Technical Manager of the accredited Materials Laboratory and is involved in several university and ministry committees. A licensed engineer and internal auditor, he is a recognized reviewer and conference speaker. He is married with two children and fluent in English, with working knowledge of Russian and German.

Professional Profiles📖

Scopus

ORCID

Education 🎓

Dr. Aleksandar Savić completed his elementary and high school in Belgrade by 1997 and earned his B.Sc. in Civil Engineering in 2004 with a thesis on arch bridge design using self-compacting concrete. He received faculty and Embassy of Norway awards for academic excellence. He enrolled in doctoral studies in 2007 at the University of Belgrade, becoming the first doctoral student in Civil Engineering under the new study program. His dissertation titled “Investigation of the properties of fresh and hardened self-compacting concrete with mineral additives based on industrial by-products” in 2015. His advanced studies focused on innovative, eco-friendly construction materials, positioning him as a pioneer in sustainable civil engineering education. His educational journey combines excellence, pioneering achievement, and a deep focus on material science and green construction.

Professional Experience💼

Dr. Savić began his academic career in 2005 at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Belgrade. He also served in the Supervision Service of Belgrade Waterworks during his military service. Rising through the academic ranks, he became an Assistant Professor in 2015 and Associate Professor in 2020. He teaches undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral courses on construction materials, concrete technology, and sustainable construction. He has mentored over 100 final theses and participated in numerous doctoral committees. He manages the accredited Materials Laboratory and contributes to Serbia’s construction standards through ministry-appointed roles. A dedicated educator and administrator, Dr. Savić has also led student research and participated in national competitions. He co-authored textbooks and lab manuals, significantly enhancing the teaching process. As an internal quality auditor and ISO coordinator, his experience spans academia, research, quality assurance, and industry collaboration, reflecting his comprehensive impact in civil engineering education and practice.

Research Focus 🔍

Dr. Aleksandar Savić specializes in construction materials science with an emphasis on self-compacting concrete (SCC), recycled aggregates, and sustainable construction. His research incorporates a phenomenological and structuralist approach, centered on laboratory testing and optimization of eco-friendly construction materials. He investigates the integration of alternative materials such as fly ash, blast furnace slag, powdered glass, recycled rubber, and biochar into concrete, mortar, and cement composites. He is also active in geopolymers and bio-fiber thermal insulation materials. His work supports circular economy principles, green infrastructure, and climate-resilient urban development. Dr. Savić’s testing spans fresh and hardened concrete, as well as full-scale structural elements, aligning with both academic and applied engineering goals. Through over 150 published works and leadership in national projects, his research promotes innovation in green building practices and enhances construction sustainability and durability. He also contributes to technical regulations and sustainable material certification in Serbia.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Aleksandar Savić has received multiple prestigious awards recognizing his excellence in civil engineering and academia. He was honored during his undergraduate studies with a faculty award and the Embassy of Norway Award in 2002 for outstanding performance. He has twice been recognized as an Outstanding Reviewer for journals indexed in the SCI list. Additionally, his mentorship led to student accolades, including a University of Belgrade award for extracurricular student research. As President of the Organizing Committee, he successfully hosted the International Conference on Renewable Energy Sources in 2022 and 2023. He has served as keynote speaker and given invited lectures at notable international venues, including the University of Banja Luka. Furthermore, his active role in quality assurance contributed to the successful ASIIN accreditation of the Civil Engineering program in 2024. His leadership in sustainable construction has established him as a respected authority nationally and internationally.

Conclusion ✅

Dr. Aleksandar Savić’s track record of academic excellence, research leadership, innovation, and educational contributions places him as an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His commitment to sustainable construction, education, and societal impact makes his work highly relevant and globally significant. While there’s scope to elevate his presence in global-scale collaborations and commercialization, his credentials already exceed the typical benchmarks for this honor.

Publications to Noted📚

Title: Comparative Analysis of Concrete Compressive Strength and Water Impermeability – Case Study for One Bridge Structure
📅 Year: 2025
✍️ Authors: Aleksandar Radević, Marko Samardžić, Marina Škondrić, Aleksandar Savić, Dragica Jevtić

Title: Comparative Analysis of Concrete with Portland Composite Cements with Reduced Clinker Content
📅 Year: 2025
✍️ Authors: Sanja Ćorić, Marina Škondrić, Aleksandar Radević, Aleksandar Savić, Marko Stojanović

Title: Experimental Analysis of Exposed Concrete Slabs Through Image Analysis
📅 Year: 2025
✍️ Authors: Danica Đukić, Gvozden Jovanović, Marina Škondrić, Aleksandar Radević, Aleksandar Savić, Dragica Jevtić

Title: Methods of Testing Systems for Strengthening Masonry Structures Based on Cement Composites Reinforced with Glass Fiber Mesh
📅 Year: 2025
✍️ Authors: Milica Petrović, Marko Popović, Marina Škondrić, Aleksandar Savić, Dimitrije Zakić
📝 Journal: Gradjevinski materijali i konstrukcije

Title: Advanced Sulfur-Polymer Composites for Sustainable Construction: Optimized Production and Structural Performance under Acidic Exposure
📅 Year: 2025 (July)
✍️ Authors: Milica Vlahović, Kong Fah Tee, Nenad Vušović, Aleksandar Savić, Jovanka Pejić, Nataša Đorđević
📝 Journal: Construction and Building Materials

Title: Sustainable Lightweight Concrete Designed with Modified Solidified Wastewater Sludge as Partial Replacement of Cement
📅 Year: 2025 (January 24)
✍️ Authors: Marina Škondrić, Aleksandar Radević, Aleksandar Savić, Zorana Naunović, Željko Radovanović, Snežana Svetozarević, Vladana Rajaković-Ognjanović
📝 Journal: Sustainability

Title: Examination of the Influence of the Applied Test Method on the Adhesion Between Steel Reinforcement and Concrete
📅 Year: 2024
✍️ Authors: Milica Stojanović, Marina Škondrić, Aleksandar Radević, Marko Popović, Aleksandar Savić, Dimitrije Zakić, Dragica Jevtić

Title: Pelletization of Fly Ash for Utilization in Dynamic Sorption Processes
📅 Year: 2024
✍️ Authors: Milica Vlahović, Nataša Djordjević, Nenad Vušović, Milan Vlahović, Jelena Avramović, Nikola Veljković, Aleksandar Savić
📝 Journal: Podzemni radovi

Title: Determination of the Salt Distribution in the Lime-Based Mortar Samples Using XRF and SEM-EDX Characterization
📅 Year: 2023
✍️ Authors: Marina Aškrabić, Dimitrije Zakić, Aleksandar Savić, Ljiljana Miličić, Ivana Delić-Nikolić, Martin Vyšvařil
📖 Book Chapter

Title: Development of Low Carbon and Energy-Efficient Geopolymer-Based Paving Blocks
📅 Year: 2023
✍️ Authors: Ivana Jelić, Aleksandar Savić, Tatjana Miljojčić, Marija Šljivić-Ivanović, Slavko Dimović, Marija Janković, Ivana Perović, Dimitrije Zakić, Dragi Antonijević
📝 Journal: Science of Sintering

Jian Pan | Direct reduction | Best Researcher Award

Published on by MTE Awards

Prof. Jian Pan | Direct reduction | Best Researcher Award

Deputy director at Central South University, China.

Pan Jian is a distinguished professor and doctoral supervisor at Central South University (CSU), where he serves as the deputy director of the Low Carbon and Hydrogen Metallurgy Research Center. He also holds editorial positions at prominent journals, including the Journal of Iron and Steel Research, China Metallurgy, and Sintering and Pelletizing. As a member of The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society (TMS) and the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), Pan Jian is an internationally recognized expert in his field. His work focuses on innovative approaches to metallurgy, earning him prestigious accolades such as the National Science and Technology Progress Second Prize and the Baosteel Excellent Teacher Award. With over 120 published papers and 58 invention patents, Pan Jian is a leading voice in advancing low-carbon and hydrogen metallurgy.

Professional Profiles📖

Scopus

Education 🎓

Pan Jian’s academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in minerals processing from Central South University, where he laid the foundation for his future research in sustainable metallurgical techniques. He continued his studies at the same institution, earning a master’s degree in 2003 and culminating in a Doctor of Engineering degree in 2007. Throughout his education, Pan Jian demonstrated a commitment to innovation, focusing on the development of efficient, low-carbon technologies that would later define his career. His academic excellence has been integral to his contributions to the field of metallurgy.

Professional Experience💼

Pan Jian’s professional journey spans both academia and industry, showcasing a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. Currently, he serves as a professor at Central South University, a position he has held since 2015. Before this, he worked as an associate professor from 2009 to 2015 and as a lecturer from 2003 to 2009 at the same institution. His international experience includes serving as a visiting scientist at CSIRO Minerals Group in Australia from 2014 to 2015. Earlier in his career, he gained industry experience as an associate engineer at the Lianyuan Steel Company, part of the Valin Group. These roles have allowed Pan Jian to develop a comprehensive understanding of both academic research and its industrial applications.

Research Focus 🔍

Pan Jian’s research focuses on developing innovative and sustainable metallurgical processes. He specializes in the theory and application of iron ore sintering and pelletizing, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. His work in low-carbon and hydrogen metallurgy is pioneering new methods for cleaner production, aligning with global sustainability goals. Additionally, Pan Jian is dedicated to the efficient utilization of solid waste resources, transforming industrial by-products into valuable materials. His research bridges the gap between industrial needs and environmental stewardship, positioning him as a leader in sustainable metallurgy.

Conclusion ✅

Professor Pan Jian exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional researcher, blending academic excellence with practical innovation. His contributions to low-carbon metallurgy and resource efficiency align with global sustainability goals, making him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Addressing areas for improvement, particularly in interdisciplinary and international collaboration, could further enhance his impact and visibility.

📚Publications to Noted

Hydrogen-based direct reduction behavior of iron ore pellets with iron grades ranging from 59% to 68%

Authors: C. Yang, Congcong; L. Wei, Liu; D. Zhu, Deqing; G. Xia, Guanghui; S. Qu, Shijuan

Year: 2025

Effect of pellet size on pellet sintering process of manganese ore fines at natural basicity

Authors: W. Liu, Wei; J. Pan, Jian; D. Zhu, Deqing; X. He, Xiang; W. Zhang, Wuju

Year: 2025

Efficient Removal of Impurities from Refractory Oolitic Magnetite Concentrate via High-Pressure Alkaline Leaching and Ultrasonic Acid Leaching Process

Authors: M. Hu, Mengjie; D. Zhu, Deqing; J. Pan, Jian; S. Li, Siwei; W. Cao, Wen

Year: 2025

Machine Learning-Assisted Multi-Property Prediction and Sintering Mechanism Exploration of Mullite–Corundum Ceramics

Authors: Q. Chen, Qingyue; W. Zhang, Weijin; X. Liang, Xiaocheng; J. Pan, Jian; B. Cheng, Benjun

Year: 2025

New Process for Efficient Separation and Comprehensive Recovery of Valuable Metals from Jarosite Residues

Authors: Q. Zhou, Qi; J. Pan, Jian; D. Zhu, Deqing; S. Li, Siwei; X. Xu, Xianqing

Year: 2025

Stepwise recovery of Zn, In, Ga, and Fe from jarosite residue through oxidizing roasting−direct reduction−smelting−electrorefining process

Authors: D. Zhu, Deqing; T. Dong, Tao; J. Pan, Jian; C. Yang, Congcong; Y.X. Xue, Yu Xiao

Year: 2025

Optimization of four-component furnace burdens with hydrogen-reduced metallized pellets based on blast furnace performance

Authors: Q. Chen, Qingyue; J. Pan, Jian; Z. Guo, Zhengqi; D. Zhu, Deqing

Year: 2025

Impact of SiO2 Content on the Hydrogen-Based Direct Reduction of Acidic High-Grade Fired Hematite Pellets

Authors: B. Li, Bohua; D. Zhu, Deqing; Z. Guo, Zhengqi; J. Pan, Jian; S. Li, Siwei

Year: 2025

Utilization of High-Silicon Iron Ore Tailings for 4N8 High-Purity Quartz Powder Production via Two-Stage Acid Leaching

Authors: H. Long, Hailin; X. Xu, Xianqing; S. Li, Siwei; J. Pan, Jian; Z. Guo, Zhengqi

Citations: 1

Year: 2025

Self-reforming of coke oven gas in gas-based shaft furnace: thermodynamic analysis and reforming mechanism

Authors: C. Tang, Chenmei; S. Shi, Shubing; J. Pan, Jian; C. Yang, Congcong; S. Li, Siwei

Year: 2025