Misbah Ullah | Resource Recovery | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Misbah Ullah | Resource Recovery | Best Researcher Award

Università degli Studi dell’Aquila | Italy

Mr. Misbah Ullah is a dedicated researcher in chemical and environmental engineering, specializing in wastewater treatment, hydrometallurgy, desalination, and membrane technologies. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Industrial and Information Engineering and Economics at the University of L’Aquila, Italy, he has established a strong academic and research profile through innovative contributions in sustainable process engineering. His journey includes an M.Sc. in Thermal System Engineering and a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, both of which laid the foundation for his expertise in energy systems, water purification, and circular economy practices. Misbah has been involved in multiple international projects, including research at Arizona State University, where he contributed to membrane distillation seawater desalination. His published works span lithium-ion battery recycling, boron recovery, solar desalination, and radioactive wastewater treatment, reflecting his commitment to sustainable technological solutions for global energy and environmental challenges.

Professional Profiles

Scopus | ORCID

Education

Mr. Misbah Ullah’s academic background highlights his pursuit of excellence in engineering and sustainability. He is currently a Ph.D. candidate at the University of L’Aquila, Italy, in Industrial and Information Engineering and Economics, where he focuses on advanced wastewater treatment and resource recovery systems. Prior to this, he earned an M.Sc. in Thermal System Engineering from the U.S.-Pakistan Centre for Advanced Studies in Energy, University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Peshawar, under the USAID scholarship program. His research there emphasized desalination technologies and thermal system optimization. Misbah also holds a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from the University of the Punjab, Lahore, where his final-year project explored essential oil extraction from orange peels. Alongside formal education, he has obtained certifications in NEBOSH-IGC and IOSH-MS, demonstrating his commitment to safety, sustainability, and professional development.

Experience

Mr. Misbah Ullah’s professional experience bridges academia, research, and industry. He joined Arizona State University as a research scholar, working on membrane distillation seawater desalination projects and participating in advanced training sessions on technology entrepreneurship and energy policy. His industrial exposure began with internships at Agritech (Pak American Fertilizers) Limited in Mianwali and Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, where he gained hands-on experience in engineering systems, operations, and process design. His academic and professional endeavors have consistently focused on the development of sustainable technologies, ranging from wastewater treatment to renewable energy integration. Currently, as a Ph.D. researcher, he investigates hydrometallurgical wastewater recovery, lithium-ion battery recycling, and advanced membrane systems. Misbah’s participation in international conferences and collaborative projects highlights his capacity to engage in multidisciplinary environments and contribute practical, research-driven solutions to real-world environmental and energy-related challenges.

Research Focus

Mr. Misbah Ullah’s research focuses on sustainable process engineering, particularly in the fields of wastewater treatment, hydrometallurgy, energy systems, and circular economy technologies. His doctoral work emphasizes the recovery of valuable resources and zero-liquid discharge approaches in industrial wastewater streams, particularly those arising from lithium-ion battery recycling and hydrometallurgical processes. He has made significant contributions to the development of membrane-based desalination, including vacuum membrane distillation, and has explored innovative solutions for the treatment of automotive wastewater, radioactive liquids, and boron extraction from effluents. His publications highlight key themes such as environmental safety, sustainable water-energy nexus technologies, and resource recovery strategies. Misbah’s research also integrates experimental methods, material characterization, and simulation tools to optimize industrial processes, making them both environmentally friendly and economically viable. His long-term vision is to advance scalable, green technologies that contribute to global challenges in water scarcity, clean energy, and industrial sustainability.

Publication top Notes

Sustainable wastewater treatment in lithium-ion battery recycling: Processes, challenges, and innovations
Year: 2025

Boron extraction from wastewater using a phosphonium-based ionic liquid
Journal of Water Process Engineering
Year: 2025

Treatment of wastewater produced during the hydrometallurgical extraction of silver from in-mold structural electronics
Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering
Year: 2024

Automotive Wastewater Treatment Processes and Technologies: A Review
ACS ES&T Water
Year: 2024

Application of membrane technology in the treatment of waste liquid containing radioactive materials
Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry
Year: 2023

Conclusion

Mr. Misbah Ullah is a promising early-career researcher with significant strengths in sustainable process engineering, wastewater treatment, and resource recovery. His strong academic background, international exposure, and growing research portfolio make him suitable for recognition under the Best Researcher Award, particularly as an early-stage scientist contributing to the future of green and sustainable technologies. With further expansion of his publication record, greater citation impact, and leadership in interdisciplinary projects, he has the potential to emerge as a leading researcher in his field.

 

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.

Jian Pan | Direct reduction | Best Researcher Award

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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