Xinsheng Wu | Metal Recycling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xinsheng Wu | Metal Recycling | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Central South University | China

Dr. Xinsheng Wu is a lecturer at the School of Metallurgy and Environment, Central South University, specializing in non-ferrous metallurgy, green hydrometallurgical processes, and resource recycling technologies. His research focuses on the sustainable treatment of hazardous metallurgical wastes, recovery of critical metals, and eco-friendly extraction technologies. He has made significant contributions to the recovery of tungsten, vanadium, titanium, and arsenic removal from complex metallurgical residues, proposing innovative pyro-hydrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy processes. Wu has published several high-impact papers in international journals such as Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, Separation and Purification Technology, and Journal of Environmental Management. In addition, he has actively contributed to technological innovation through patents and industry-relevant process development. His work emphasizes the balance between efficient metal recovery and environmental sustainability. As an early-career researcher, Wu’s academic journey demonstrates his dedication to advancing cleaner production methods and supporting the green development of metallurgical industries in China and globally.

Professional Profile

Scopus | ORCID

Education

Dr. Xinsheng Wu pursued his entire academic training at Central South University, one of China’s leading institutions in metallurgy. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering  where he developed a strong foundation in extractive metallurgy and process engineering. Continuing at the same institution, he completed his Master’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering, where his research began to focus on the hydrometallurgical treatment of refractory materials and resource recovery from waste streams. His doctoral studies in Non-Ferrous Metallurgy at Central South University, allowed him to specialize in green metallurgical processes, hazardous waste treatment, and critical metal recovery. Throughout his doctoral training, Wu acquired comprehensive knowledge of process optimization, reaction mechanisms, and advanced leaching technologies. His academic background has equipped him with both theoretical expertise and applied research capabilities, establishing him as a promising scholar in sustainable metallurgy.

Experience

Dr. Xinsheng Wu has served as a lecturer at the School of Metallurgy and Environment, Central South University. In this role, he has combined teaching responsibilities with active research in hydrometallurgical technologies and environmental metallurgy. Wu has led and participated in multiple research projects focusing on the extraction and separation of tungsten, molybdenum, vanadium, and other critical metals from hazardous residues, while also addressing the challenge of arsenic pollution in metallurgical by-products. His earlier research experience during his graduate and doctoral studies allowed him to engage in collaborative projects with industrial partners, applying his work to real-world problems of waste treatment and resource recovery. In addition to his publications in high-impact journals, Wu has presented his findings at international conferences, such as the 7th International Conference on Hydrometallurgy. His professional experience demonstrates a blend of academic excellence and applied contributions to the metallurgical industry.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Xinsheng Wu has been recognized for his innovative contributions to metallurgical waste treatment and metal recovery. He co-invented a patented method for the separation of tungsten and molybdenum from ammonium tungstate solutions using quaternary ammonium extractants, a technique with industrial significance for cleaner production. This patent highlights his role in advancing practical metallurgical technologies with environmental considerations. Wu has also been invited to present his research findings at prestigious academic platforms, including the 7th International Conference on Hydrometallurgy, where he delivered a conference report on tungsten and molybdenum separation. His academic achievements include first-author and corresponding-author publications in leading international journals, which have brought attention to his expertise in hydrometallurgy and green metallurgy. Although at the early stage of his career, his representative works have already positioned him as a promising researcher contributing to the field’s progress, particularly in sustainable resource utilization and hazardous waste management.

Research Focus

The core of Dr. Xinsheng Wu’s research lies in sustainable metallurgy, particularly in the recovery of valuable metals and treatment of hazardous wastes through environmentally friendly processes. His focus areas include the pyro-hydrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical treatment of spent catalysts, tungsten residues, and other metallurgical wastes. Wu has developed innovative processes for the recovery of tungsten, vanadium, and titanium, as well as strategies for deep arsenic removal, emphasizing green chemistry principles and industrial applicability. His work investigates reaction mechanisms, kinetics, and thermodynamics of leaching and extraction systems, while also addressing environmental safety concerns. Through both experimental and mechanistic studies, he has proposed novel approaches to strengthen weathering processes, optimize solvent extraction operations, and design eco-friendly separation techniques. His research provides important technological solutions for balancing resource efficiency with environmental protection, contributing to the global movement toward sustainable metallurgy and circular economy practices in critical raw material industries.

Publication top Notes

Title: Deep removal of minor silicon in the crude nickel sulfate solution by solvent extraction of Si-Mo heteropoly acid
Year: 2025 
Citations: 2

Title: A novel pyro-hydrometallurgy process for efficient recovery of tungsten, vanadium, and titanium from spent SCR catalysts
Year: 2024 
Citations: 1

Title: Efficient recovery of all valuable metals from spent HDS catalysts: Based on roasting mechanisms for enhanced selective leaching and separation
Year: 2024 
Citations: 7

Title: Recovery of vanadium from high-iron chlorination titanium-white waste acid using D2EHPA/iso-octanol: From laboratory to pilot test
Year: 2024 
Citations: 1

Title: Separation of trace amount of nickel from cobalt sulphate solutions using a synergistic solvent extraction system consisting of dinonylnaphthalene sulfonic acid (DNNSA) and decyl 4-picolinate (4PC)
Year: 2024 
Citations: 6

Title: High-efficiency recovery of valuable metals from spent lithium-ion batteries: Optimization of SO₂ pressure leaching and selective extraction of trace impurities
Year: 2024 
Citations: 7

Title: A near-zero waste process for the full-component utilization of deep-sea polymetallic nodules based on reductive leaching with SO₂ followed by separation and recovery
Year: 2024 
Citations:7

Conclusion

Considering his innovative work on resource recovery, environmentally sustainable metallurgical processes, and his record of first-author and corresponding-author publications, Dr. Xinsheng Wu is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research contributions address urgent challenges in waste treatment and critical resource utilization, making his work both academically valuable and industrially relevant. With continued expansion of international collaborations and increased visibility in broader scientific communities, he has the potential to emerge as a global leader in metallurgical research.

 

Stefan Wibner | Metal Recycling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Stefan Wibner | Metal Recycling | Best Researcher Award

Senior Scientist at University of Leoben, Austria

Stefan Robert Wibner is a distinguished Austrian scientist with expertise in metallurgy and non-ferrous materials research. Stefan is a devout Roman Catholic and holds multiple academic titles, including Dipl.-Ing., Dr.mont., and BSc. With a strong passion for innovation, he has dedicated his career to advancing metallurgical processes and technologies. He currently serves as a Senior Scientist at the Chair of Non-Ferrous Metallurgy, Montanuniversität Leoben, contributing significantly to research on aluminum recycling and the behavior of special metals. A committed educator, Stefan also teaches foundry and forming technology, sharing his knowledge and inspiring the next generation of metallurgists. Throughout his academic and professional journey, he has consistently demonstrated excellence, earning widespread recognition for his groundbreaking research and dedication to the field. 🌟📚🔬

Professional Profiles📖

SCOPUS

Education 🎓

Stefan began his academic journey at the Montanuniversität Leoben, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgy in 2015. His thesis focused on “Non-Destructive Testing of Anodized Layers.” Stefan advanced his studies with a Master’s degree in Metallurgy, specializing in non-ferrous and iron-steel metallurgy. His Master’s thesis, titled “Kinetic Investigations on Slag Reduction in Primary Copper Production,” earned him distinction in 2016. He further pursued a doctorate in mining sciences, completing his dissertation on “Behavior of Aluminum-Containing Residues and Low-Quality Aluminum Scrap During Recycling with Consideration of Special Metals” with top honors in 2021. His education journey reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence in metallurgy and advanced material sciences. 🏅🧪📖

Work Experience💼

Stefan‘s professional career is marked by impactful roles in research and education. Since 2021, he has been a Senior Scientist at Montanuniversität Leoben, focusing on non-ferrous metallurgy. From 2018, he served as a lecturer at HTL Leoben, teaching foundry and forming technology. As a Research Associate at Montanuniversität Leoben (2016–2021), he contributed to transformative projects in aluminum recycling and the study of special metals. He also worked in R&D at Böhler Edelstahl GmbH & Co KG and supported heavy metals recycling optimization as a student assistant. His practical and academic experience underscores his expertise in metallurgical processes and innovative research methodologies. 🛠️📊🔬

Award and Honors🏅

Stefan‘s accolades reflect his outstanding contributions to metallurgy. He received a second prize in the Ministry of Education Technology Progress Award and has been recognized as an exceptional mentor, earning a Bronze Award in the 8th China International “Internet+” 💻 Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition. His dedication to academic excellence is evident from his distinctions as an outstanding graduate at HTBLuVA Graz-Gösting and his award for the best paper at the 14th National Laser Processing Academic Conference. Stefan’s commitment to innovation and teaching has earned him a reputation as a leader in his field. 🥇🎖️📜

Research Focus 🔍

Stefan’s research focuses on advanced metallurgy, particularly non-ferrous metal recycling and aluminum scrap processing. His doctoral work examined the behavior of aluminum-containing residues during recycling, addressing challenges in handling special metals. He has explored slag reduction kinetics in copper production, innovative recycling techniques, and high-temperature metallurgical processes. His work seeks to enhance sustainability and efficiency in industrial applications, positioning him as a pioneer in metallurgy and material sciences. 🌍🧪🔍

Conclusion ✅

Dr. Stefan Robert Wibner is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication to metallurgy, remarkable academic achievements, and practical expertise establish him as a leader in his field. By focusing on expanding his international influence and diversifying his research endeavors, Dr. Wibner could further solidify his standing as a global expert. His contributions to sustainable metallurgy and education make him highly deserving of this recognition.

📚Publications to Noted

 

Title: The catalytic effect of Ni in methane pyrolysis using molten SnNi alloys for hydrogen production
Authors: David Scheiblehner, David Neuschitzer, Stefan Wibner, Helmut Antrekowitsch, Stefan Luidold
Year: 2025

This publication explores the role of nickel as a catalyst in methane pyrolysis using molten SnNi alloys, aiming for efficient hydrogen production. It is featured in the International Journal of Hydrogen Energy.