Ke Liu | Materials | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ke Liu | Materials | Best Researcher Award

PHD, University of Science and Technology Beijing, China

Ke Liu, a dynamic researcher in Metallurgical Engineering, is currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the University of Science and Technology Beijing. At 30 years old, Liu has established himself as a key innovator in the fields of solid waste resource utilization, CO2 recycling, heat energy storage, and electrochemistry. With several high-impact publications and patents, he actively contributes to sustainable industrial solutions. His current research includes the development of novel materials for phase change energy storage and CO2 utilization, promising significant advancements in environmental protection. His international experience includes a joint doctoral program with the University of Tokyo, reflecting his global approach to tackling pressing environmental challenges.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Ke Liu’s academic journey began at North China University of Science and Technology, where he earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Metallurgical Engineering (2017). He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in the same field at the University of Science and Technology Beijing (2020-2025), with a focus on metallurgical materials and environmental applications. Liu has also enriched his academic profile through a prestigious joint program with the University of Tokyo’s Department of Materials Engineering (2023-2024). Throughout his education, Liu has continually pushed the boundaries of material science, dedicating his work to the sustainable use of industrial by-products and addressing global challenges like energy storage and CO2 recycling.

Experience

Ke Liu has extensive research experience in advanced metallurgical engineering. He has contributed significantly to national projects, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and various industry collaborations with companies such as Baosteel and Tangshan Iron & Steel. Liu played a key role in studying heat transfer mechanisms and energy storage materials, with a particular focus on steel slag-based composite materials. His work on phase change materials and CO2 recycling has been pivotal in advancing sustainable practices in metallurgy. Additionally, Liu has been part of several research and development projects, focusing on topics like desulfurization technology and protective slag development. His collaborations extend globally, including his joint program at the University of Tokyo.

Awards and Honors

Ke Liu has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing his academic excellence and contributions to research. In 2023, he was awarded the Doctoral State Scholarship, a national-level honor, for his outstanding research. Liu has been named an “Academic Star” within his faculty and is a candidate for the “Top Ten Academic Stars” at his university. He has also received recognition as an Outstanding Graduate Student and Outstanding PhD Graduate. These accolades underscore his dedication to advancing metallurgy and environmental sustainability. His achievements reflect his ability to bridge the gap between academic research and practical applications in the industry.

Research Focus

Ke Liu’s research primarily revolves around the utilization of solid waste, the development of advanced materials for energy storage, CO2 recycling, and electrochemistry. His work aims to address pressing global challenges such as climate change and resource depletion. Liu is particularly focused on steel slag-based phase change materials, which offer a sustainable way to store thermal energy. Additionally, he explores the electrochemical properties of materials in CO2 recycling and wastewater treatment. His projects include pioneering work on energy storage systems and the development of new, more efficient materials for industrial processes. Liu’s research has the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact of industries like steelmaking.

Publications

  1. Preparation and characterization of steel slag-based low, medium, and high-temperature composite phase change energy storage materials 📄
  2. Properties and Applications of Shape-Stabilized Phase Change Energy Storage Materials Based on Porous Material Support—A review 📄
  3. Novel low-cost steel slag porous ceramic-based composite phase change material: An innovative strategy for comprehensive utilization of steel slag resources 📄
  4. Effect of CaO-SiO2-FeO slag system on coal gasification reaction in CO2-Ar atmosphere and kinetic analysis 📄
  5. Melt Structure of Calcium Aluminate-based Non-reactive Mold Flux: Molecular Dynamics Simulation and Spectroscopic Experimental Verification 📄
  6. Effect of MgO on the Viscosity and Structure of CaO-Al2O3-B2O3-Based Non-reactive Mold Flux 📄
  7. Innovative strategies for thermal storage of steel slag-modified porous ceramic-based low-temperature composite phase change materials 📄
  8. The Behavior of CO2 Supersonic Jets in the Converter Slag-Splashing Process 📄
  9. Numerical Simulation of CO2 Used for Slag Splashing Process in Converter 📄

 

Mohammad Al-Zu’bi | Sustainable Construction Materials | Best Researcher Award

Dr Mohammad Al-Zu’bi | Sustainable Construction Materials | Best Researcher Award

Researcher, Brunel University of London, United Kingdom

Mohammad Al-Zu’bi is a dedicated researcher in Civil Engineering, specializing in nanotechnology for concrete retrofitting. He earned his PhD in Civil Engineering (Structures and Materials) from Brunel University London in 2024, focusing on nanotechnology-enhanced NSM-FRP structural retrofitting. His MSc and BSc degrees in Structural and Civil Engineering, respectively, were completed at Jordan University of Science and Technology with distinction. Al-Zu’bi has a strong background in teaching, having worked as a Lecturer at multiple universities and as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Brunel University. His research has been published in top-tier journals, and his work on advanced bonding agents and nanomaterials has gained significant recognition.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Google Scholar

Scopus

STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARD

Dr. Mohammad Al-Zu’bi has demonstrated significant expertise and innovation in the field of Civil Engineering, particularly in Structural Retrofitting using Nanotechnology and Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites. His research contributions are evidenced by his extensive publication record, including peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals. Notably, his work on nanomaterial-enhanced adhesives for FRP retrofitting has opened new pathways for sustainable and effective structural repair. Dr. Al-Zu’bi’s ability to combine practical applications with advanced material science is exemplified in studies like the investigation of nanomaterial-incorporated epoxies, which have garnered substantial citations and recognition.
Additionally, his multidisciplinary approach, incorporating nanotechnology, construction materials, and sustainability, aligns with modern civil engineering challenges. His academic background and professional roles further affirm his capability in teaching and disseminating knowledge.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENTS

While Dr. Al-Zu’bi’s research output and expertise are notable, future work could focus on expanding the practical implementation of his findings in large-scale industrial applications. Collaborations with industry stakeholders and governmental agencies may amplify the real-world impact of his research. Furthermore, pursuing patents or product development initiatives based on his innovations could elevate his contributions beyond academia. Engaging in broader international conferences and cross-disciplinary projects would also enhance the global visibility of his work.

EDUCATION

🎓 PhD in Civil Engineering (Structures and Materials), Brunel University London (2020–2024)
Thesis: Nanotechnology-Enhanced NSM-FRP Structural Retrofitting

🎓 MSc in Structural Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology (2014–2017)
Thesis: Shear Strengthening of RC Beams with NSM-CFRP Laminates

🎓 BSc in Civil Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology (2009–2014)
Final Year Project: Design and Analysis of Five-Storey Building

EXPERIENCE

💼 High Skills Technician, HRUC, Uxbridge College, UK (2022–2024)

  • Organized teaching materials and maintained equipment to support learning.
  • Conducted risk assessments and improved health and safety compliance.

💼 Graduate Teaching Assistant, Brunel University London, UK (2022–2024)

  • Managed tutorials and exam marking for over 400 students.
  • Delivered presentations on retrofitting systems.

💼 Lecturer, Ajloun National University, Jordan (2018–2019)

  • Taught Structural Analysis, Strength of Materials, and Building Materials.

💼 Lecturer, Yarmouk University, Jordan (2017–2018)

  • Conducted courses in Design of Steel Structures and Geotechnical Engineering.

AWARDS AND HONORS

🏆 Best Paper Award in Nanotechnology Applications, Structural Concrete Journal, 2024
🏆 Research Excellence Award, Brunel University London, 2023
🏆 Distinguished Lecturer Award, Ajloun National University, 2019
🏆 Academic Distinction in MSc and BSc Degrees, Jordan University of Science and Technology

RESEARCH FOCUS

🔬 Concrete Retrofitting: Exploring innovative retrofitting techniques using nanotechnology.
🔬 FRP Composites: Advancing the use of fiber-reinforced polymer materials for structural repair.
🔬 Nanomaterials: Developing modified epoxy adhesives with enhanced bonding properties.
🔬 Structural Epoxy Adhesives: Enhancing adhesion properties for improved structural integrity.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES

📚 Advances in bonding agents for retrofitting concrete structures with fibre reinforced polymer materials: A review
📚 The effect of length and inclination of carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminates on shear capacity of near‐surface mounted retrofitted reinforced concrete beams
📚 Near-surface mounted-FRP flexural retrofitting of concrete members using nanomaterial-modified epoxy adhesives
📚 Effect of incorporating carbon-and silicon-based nanomaterials on the physico-chemical properties of a structural epoxy adhesive
📚 Parametric investigation of flexural performance of concrete prisms retrofitted with near-surface mounted FRP bars
📚 A Review of Repairing Heat-Damaged RC Beams Using Externally Bonded-and Near-Surface Mounted-CFRP Composites
📚 A review on retrofitting concrete members with near-surface mounted-fiber reinforced polymer composites
📚 Carbon-Based and Silicon-Based Nanomaterials for Enhanced Structural Adhesives
📚 Mechanical performance and life cycle assessment of BFRP-reinforced AAC slabs strengthened with basalt macro-fibers
📚 Effect of Incorporating Carbon- and Silicon-Based Nanomaterials on the Physico-Chemical and the Adhesion Properties of Structural Epoxy Adhesive

CONCLUSION

Dr. Mohammad Al-Zu’bi’s contributions to the fields of nanotechnology for concrete retrofitting and FRP composite systems make him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His robust research foundation, coupled with his teaching and professional experience, reflects his dedication to advancing knowledge and practical applications in Civil Engineering. Recognizing his work would not only honor his individual achievements but also promote the importance of sustainable and innovative solutions in construction and structural engineering.