Yan Zhang | Green Building | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yan Zhang | Green Building | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Shanghai Polytechnic University | China

Dr. Yan Zhang is a Lecturer at Shanghai Polytechnic University, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, specializing in green building materials. He completed his Bachelor of Chemistry at Xinyang Normal University, followed by a Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Pharmacy at Nankai University. Since 2020, he has been engaged in teaching and research at Shanghai Polytechnic University. His work focuses on developing sustainable materials, particularly silica-encapsulated n-octadecane phase change microcapsules, which demonstrate high phase change enthalpy (~125 J/g), excellent thermal stability (185.2°C), and outstanding cycling performance. When integrated into cement boards, these microcapsules reduce thermal conductivity by 41.14% and temperature fluctuation by 21.9%, offering an innovative energy-saving solution for construction. He has successfully completed several funded research projects, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Shanghai Science and Technology Project  and the Shanghai Sailing Program, and contributed to 5 industry consultancy projects. His scholarly output includes 192 documents, cited 4,654 times according to Scopus, with an h-index of 33. He has published 10 SCI/Scopus-indexed journals, authored one book (ISBN available), and holds two patents under process. His contributions have been widely recognized in the field of eco-friendly construction materials, reflecting a strong blend of fundamental research, practical applications, and commitment to sustainable innovation

Profile: Scopus | ORCID

Feautured Publications

Tan, Y., Li, P., Yao, Y., Li, H., Zhong, J., Wu, J., Zhang, Y., & Wang, J. (2025). Green preparation and performance research of n-octadecane@silica phase change microcapsules for building energy conservation. Construction and Building Materials, 425, 143847.

Yao, Y., Li, H., Li, P., Tan, Y., Zhang, Y., & Wang, J. (2025). High-performance dual-network wood-based ionic conductive hydrogel for supercapacitors and sensitive sensors. Energy Technology, 13(10), 1501301.

Zhang, Y., Wu, J., Dang, S., Zhou, S., Wang, J., & Wang, R. (2024). Design, synthesis, and insecticidal activities of the novel sulfur-containing meta-amide compounds as potential pesticides. Journal of Chemical Research, 48(3), 1234629.

Wu, J., Dang, S., Zhang, Y., & Zhou, S. (2024). Novel meta-diamide compounds containing sulfide derivatives were designed and synthesized as potential pesticides. Molecules, 29(6), 1337.

Zhang, Y., Shang, J., Li, H., Liu, H., Song, H., Wang, B., & Li, Z. (2020). Synthesis of novel N-pyridylpyrazole derivatives containing 1,2,4-oxadiazole moiety via 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition and their structures and biological activities. Chinese Chemical Letters, 31(5), 1423–1430.

Qi Shi | Refractory Metals | Best Researcher Award

Qi Shi | Refractory metals | Best Researcher Award

Senior Engineer at Ningbo University of Technology | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qi Shi is a distinguished researcher in materials science with a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Technology from Loughborough University, UK. Since returning to China, he has focused on the R&D of near-net-shape technologies, including advanced metal powders, powder metallurgy, and additive manufacturing. His pioneering work in radio-frequency (RF) plasma spheroidization of refractory metals has achieved breakthroughs in stable feeding technology for ultrafine powders, enabling consistent feeding and effective dispersion of low-density powders. He has also developed ultrasonic-fluidized bed wet classification methods for efficient micro-nano powder separation, leading to the production and commercialization of low-oxygen tantalum powder, ultrafine tungsten powder, and ultra-high hardness cast tungsten carbide powder. His research extends to metal additive manufacturing and post-processing, where he has advanced powder suitability evaluation and clarified the role of powder characteristics in selective laser melting (SLM). Through hot isostatic pressing and high-pressure heat treatment, he has enhanced strength–toughness synergy and significantly improved high-cycle fatigue performance in stainless steel, tantalum, and tungsten. Qi Shi has led five major government-funded projects, securing over RMB three million, and contributed to more than ten additional national and regional initiatives. He has published 35 academic papers in prestigious journals such as Additive Manufacturing, Materials Science and Engineering: A, and Journal of Materials Research and Technology, including 15 as first or corresponding author. According to his Scopus profile, he has more than 356 citations and an h-index of 13. He has also applied for 21 patents (15 granted), contributed to national standards, authored professional books, and received multiple awards, including the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Science and Technology Award (Second Prize) and the National Technical Standard Excellence Award (First Prize).

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Shi, Q., Li, D., Du, W., Wu, A., & others. (2024). Improved mechanical properties and thermal conductivity of laser powder bed fused tungsten by using hot isostatic pressing. Cited by: 2

Pu, Y., Zhao, D., Liu, B., Shi, Q., & others. (2024). Microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of Ti-25Ta alloy fabricated by selective laser melting and hot isostatic pressing. Cited by: 1

Xu, J., Chen, H., Shi, Q., Liu, X., & others. (2024). Interdiffusion mechanism of hybrid interfacial layers for enhanced electrical resistivity and ultralow loss in Fe-based nanocrystalline soft magnetic composites. Cited by: 3

Qin, F., Shi, Q., Zhou, G., Wen, J., & others. (2024). Simultaneously enhanced strength and plasticity of laser powder bed fused tantalum by hot isostatic pressing. Cited by: 2

Qin, F., Shi, Q., Zhou, G., Yao, D., & others. (2023). Influence of powder particle size distribution on microstructure and mechanical properties of 17-4 PH stainless steel fabricated by selective laser melting. Cited by: 14

Raghukumar Bommenahalli | Mechanical Metallurgy | Best Researcher Award

Raghukumar Bommenahalli | Mechanical Metallurgy | Best Researcher Award

Prinicipal Engineer at DEKRA Certification, Inc. | United States

Mr. Raghukumar Bommenahalli is a seasoned mechanical engineer with over two decades of industrial experience specializing in zero-emission transportation and energy infrastructure. Currently serving as Principal Engineer at DEKRA Certification Inc., he leads the Vehicle Innovation Grid Lab (ViGIL) and ADAS Data Collection Program, advancing California’s clean transportation initiatives through rigorous EV and EVSE testing, standards compliance, and interoperability validation. Prior to this, he was Program Manager for Codes and Standards at Nikola Motor Corporation, where he guided regulatory compliance and standards development for battery-electric and fuel-cell electric vehicles, including cybersecurity frameworks and ADAS integration for heavy-duty trucks. His earlier role at Cummins Inc. as Codes and Standards Compliance Leader saw him authoring 40+ validation plans across UL, CSA, IEC, and EN standards while pioneering hydrogen fuel cell and BEV compliance programs. Raghukumar has also contributed to major engineering projects in roles with TAAL Technologies, Creative Synergies Group, Toyo Denki Power Systems, and Cummins Generator Technologies. He is actively involved in global standards development as a voting member on multiple SAE task forces and as Co-Chair of the CharIN NACI Task Force. With a strong academic foundation that includes an Executive Master’s in Engineering Management from St. Cloud State University, a Master’s in Machine Design, and a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering from Visvesvaraya Technological University, he complements his technical expertise with certifications such as PMP, DFSS, and internal auditing. In addition to his leadership in compliance, testing, and certification, he contributes as a peer reviewer for leading journals, organizes technical conferences, and holds a registered design patent in EV charging efficiency.

Pofile: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publication

Bommenahalli, R. (2025). Effect of nickel on the mechanical properties of spray-formed Al-15Si-2Cu alloy at elevated temperatures. Journal of Alloys and Compounds.

Bommenahalli, R. (2025). Computing device for enhancing charging efficiency in electric vehicle [Patent]. UK Intellectual Property Office.

Bommenahalli, R. (2025). Fuel cell Class 8 trucks: Pioneering the path to sustainable heavy transportation. Website article.

Bommenahalli, R. (2025). Navigating the future: Innovations reshaping the EV charging landscape. International Business Times.

Zhe Wang | Metallurgical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Zhe Wang | Metallurgical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of Science and Technology Beijing, China

Zhe Wang is a professor at the University of Science and Technology Beijing. His academic journey, marked by extensive research in metallurgical engineering, began with a Ph.D. from the University of Wollongong, Australia. Since 2016, he has been a dedicated contributor to advancing recycling technologies for critical metals. With a focus on innovative solutions to supply security risks and environmental challenges, Dr. Wang’s work has significantly impacted industrial practices. His methods, such as supergravity-enhanced separation and matte smelting for lithium-ion batteries, are transformative, earning recognition from prestigious organizations. A prolific author and inventor, he holds multiple patents and has published over 43 SCI-indexed papers. His leadership extends to editorial roles and professional committees, fostering collaboration in the metallurgical community.

Professional Profiles📖

Scopus

Education 🎓

Dr. Wang’s educational foundation is deeply rooted in metallurgical engineering. He earned his doctoral degree (2012-2015) from the University of Wollongong, where he delved into innovative recycling methods for metal resources. His Ph.D. thesis focused on the molten separation of metals and related electrochemical processes. Prior to that, he pursued foundational studies in materials science, developing a profound understanding of alloy behaviors and high-temperature reactions. His academic pursuits emphasized practical applications, paving the way for his later industrial collaborations. This strong theoretical grounding underpins his current research, as he continues to educate future leaders in metallurgy at the University of Science and Technology Beijing.

Work Experience💼

Dr. Wang‘s professional career spans over a decade of impactful contributions to metallurgical research and education. From his initial role as an Associate Research Fellow at the University of Wollongong, he transitioned to teaching and research positions at the University of Science and Technology Beijing. Serving as a Lecturer (2016–2018), Associate Professor (2018–2024), and now as Professor, he has led numerous projects funded by national foundations and industry partners. His work bridges academia and industry, driving innovation in metal recycling technologies. His hands-on approach to research has resulted in industrial implementations with significant cost and efficiency benefits.

Research Focus

Dr. Wang specializes in high-value recycling of critical metal resources, tackling challenges in supply chain security and sustainability. His pioneering approaches, including supergravity-assisted separation and electrochemical methods, emphasize efficiency and scalability. His focus extends to recycling low-melting-point metals, refining titanium and zirconium through stable electrolytes, and developing smelting processes for precious metals. His research integrates theoretical insights and practical applications, bridging the gap between laboratory innovation and industrial utility.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Wang‘s achievements have been celebrated with numerous awards. Among these, the First Prize in the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Technological Invention Award (2022) stands out for his advancements in molten salt electrorefining. His contributions to supergravity-enhanced technologies have also been supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. As a recognized leader, he serves on editorial boards and professional committees, further solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in the field. His work’s industrial impact has earned accolades from organizations such as Baosteel and Shougang Group.

Conclusion✅

Dr. Zhe Wang exemplifies the qualities of a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His pioneering work in high-value recycling of critical metals, combined with a track record of impactful publications, patents, and industrial applications, underscores his significant contributions to science and industry. Addressing minor areas for improvement, such as increasing global collaboration and interdisciplinary engagement, could further elevate his already stellar profile. Dr. Wang’s innovative research and dedication make him a strong contender for this prestigious recognition.

📚Publications to Noted

 

Extraction and recovery of rare earth elements from NdFeB waste using bismuth reinforced by supergravity

Authors: Z. Wang, Zhenxiang Zhang, Long Meng, Chunjiang Li, Zhancheng GuCitations: 0

Year: 2024

Sustainable recycling of pure aluminum from waste chips under supergravity-enhanced separation: A cleaning process

Authors: Bolin Sun, Lei Guo, Z. Wang, Xi Lan, Zhancheng Guo

Year: 2024

Preparation of SiC/Al composite material by supergravity infiltration method and its properties

Authors: Yuan Li, Z. Wang, Zhancheng Guo

Citations: 6

Year: 2024

Grade-preserving recycling of highly polluted Al-Mg-Si alloys scrap: Continuous filtration under supergravity-induced

Authors: Bolin Sun, Xi Lan, Z. Wang, Ningjie Sun, Zhancheng Guo

Citations: 1

Year: 2024

Weak Electrostatic Force on K+ in Gel Polymer Electrolyte Realizes High Ion Transference Number for Quasi Solid-State Potassium Ion Batteries

Authors: Huize Yang, Wei Wang, Zheng Huang, Shufeng Yang, Shuqiang Jiao

Citations: 12

Year: 2024

The fundamental research on suspended dross in hot dip Al–Zn galvanising process

Authors: Rensheng Chu, Z. Wang, Ningjie Sun, Chengliang Xu, Zhancheng Guo

Year: 2024

CFD simulation and water model experiments with overflow-type supergravity reactor set up for continuously removing inclusions from aluminum melt

Authors: Z. Wang, Qilong Wei, Meng Hu, Zhancheng GuoCitations: 0

Year: 2024

Effect of Al2O3/SiO2 mass ratio and CaO content on viscosity and structure of slag for pyrometallurgical processing of spent automotive catalysts

Authors: Z. Wang, Qilong Wei, Chengbin Shi, Zhancheng Guo

Citations: 5

Year: 2024

Insight into compositional dependence of thermophysical properties and structure of Al2O3-SiO2-CaF2-CaO-Li2O melts

Authors: Xiuxiu Wan, Z. Wang, Jian Yang, Chengbin Shi

Citations: 5

Year: 2024

Review—Preparation of Hafnium Metal by Electrolysis

Authors: Ranran Wei, Zheng Huang, Tianwei Wei, Z. Wang, Shuqiang Jiao

Citations: 2

Year: 2024