Konan Edmond KOUASSI | Biomass and energy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Konan Edmond KOUASSI | Biomass and energy | Best Researcher Award

Teacher-researcher at UNA, Ivory Coast

Dr. Kouassi Konan Edmond is a Maître-Assistant in Chemistry (Process Engineering) at the Université Nangui Abrogoua (UNA), Côte d’Ivoire. With extensive expertise in renewable energy, waste valorization, and water treatment processes, he has contributed significantly to the field of sustainable chemical engineering. His research focuses on optimizing biofuel production, energy recovery from biomass, and environmental sustainability. He has participated in multiple international scientific conferences and has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications.

Profile

Scopus

EDUCATION

Dr. Kouassi obtained his Doctorate in Fundamental and Applied Sciences (Chemistry – Process Engineering) from Université Nangui Abrogoua in 2016. His dissertation focused on optimizing vegetable oil transesterification for fuel production using experimental designs and artificial intelligence. He previously earned a Diplôme d’Etudes Approfondies (DEA) in Material Sciences and a Master’s in Physical Chemistry, specializing in thermodynamics and process engineering. His early education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Fundamental Sciences and Applied Chemistry.

EXPERIENCE

Since 2018, Dr. Kouassi has been teaching General Chemistry and Energy Process Engineering at UNA, covering subjects such as thermodynamics, kinetics, and water chemistry. His professional background includes doctoral research at the Laboratory of Industrial Processes and Renewable Energy (LAPISEN) and collaborations with leading researchers in bioenergy and waste valorization. He has also been involved in capacity-building workshops and training programs to advance scientific research methodologies.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Dr. Kouassi’s research focuses on renewable energy production, process optimization, and environmental sustainability. His expertise includes biofuel synthesis, wastewater treatment, solid waste management, and the application of artificial intelligence in chemical engineering. He has extensively studied biodiesel production through transesterification and the valorization of agricultural waste for energy applications. His work contributes to advancing sustainable energy solutions in Côte d’Ivoire and beyond.

AWARDS

Dr. Kouassi has been recognized for his contributions to green chemistry and bioenergy. He has received awards for outstanding research in chemical engineering, including excellence awards for his work on biofuel optimization. His active participation in scientific societies such as the West African Society of Chemistry (SOACHIM) has further established his reputation as a leading researcher in sustainable energy solutions.

PUBLICATIONS

Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2018). “Optimization of Rubber Seed Oil Transesterification to Biodiesel Using Experimental Designs and Artificial Neural Networks.” Green and Sustainable Chemistry, cited by multiple energy research articles.

Abollé Abollé & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2017). “Empirical Correlations Between Viscosity, Density, and Cloud Point of Diesel Oil Mixtures with Straight Vegetable Oils.” International Journal of Engineering and Technical Research.

Alain Stéphane Assémian & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2018). “In-Situ Generation of Effective Coagulant to Treat Textile Bio-Refractory Wastewater.” Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering.

Yao Joseph Adjoumani & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2019). “Modeling and Optimization of Two Clays Acidic Activation for Phosphate Ions Removal.” Journal of Water Resource and Protection.

Horo Koné & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2020). “Thermal Regeneration of Activated Carbon Saturated with Nitrate Ions.” International Journal of Advanced Engineering, Management, and Science.

ZRAN Vanh Eric-Simon & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2022). “Valorization of Plantain Peels Waste in Biosorbents for Methylene Blue Removal.” International Journal of Scientific Research and Reviews.

Moya Joëlle Carole Akossi & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2023). “Transesterification of Vegetable Oils into Biodiesel by an Immobilized Lipase: A Review.” Biofuels.

CONCLUSION

Dr. Kouassi Konan Edmond’s extensive research output, scientific leadership, and contributions to process engineering and environmental sustainability make him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work advances renewable energy solutions and promotes sustainable industrial practices, highlighting his impact on academia and society.

Taiju Lee | Pulp Surface Area | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Taiju Lee | Pulp Surface Area | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Kookmin University, South Korea

Dr. Taiju Lee is a distinguished researcher and academic specializing in forest products and biotechnology. With a Ph.D. and Master’s degree from Kookmin University, Seoul, Republic of Korea, Dr. Lee has over a decade of experience in developing advanced materials from biomass. He currently serves as an Associate Professor at Kookmin University and has worked as a research officer at the National Institute of Forest Science. Dr. Lee has significantly contributed to the development of ISO standards and Korean Standards, focusing on sustainable packaging solutions and advanced cellulose-based materials.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Orcid

STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARDS

  1. Extensive Academic Background: Dr. Tai-Ju Lee holds both a Ph.D. and Master’s degree in Forest Products and Biotechnology from Kookmin University, showcasing a strong foundation in his field.
  2. Innovative Research Contributions: His research focuses on developing advanced materials using biomass, including cellulose-based packaging solutions to replace plastics, which aligns with global sustainability goals.
  3. Collaboration with Industry: Dr. Lee’s work at the Changgung Institute and the National Institute of Forest Science demonstrates his ability to bridge academic research with practical industrial applications, fostering innovation in paper and packaging technology.
  4. Standardization Expertise: His active involvement in ISO and Korean Standards development highlights his leadership and technical expertise in shaping policies and technical guidelines.
  5. Prolific Publications: Dr. Lee has authored impactful research articles in reputable journals, showcasing his ability to contribute new knowledge to the field of forest products and biotechnology.
  6. Teaching and Mentorship: As an Associate Professor at Kookmin University, he has contributed to the academic growth of students while conducting meaningful research.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENTS

  1. Diversity in Research Focus: While Dr. Lee excels in cellulose and biomass-based materials, diversifying into emerging interdisciplinary fields such as bioinformatics or advanced nanotechnology could enhance his research impact.
  2. Global Outreach: Expanding his research collaborations internationally, beyond Korea, could strengthen his visibility and influence in the global research community.
  3. Public Engagement: Increasing outreach through conferences, seminars, and public education initiatives could amplify his contributions and inspire more widespread adoption of sustainable solutions.

EDUCATION

🎓 Ph.D. in Forest Products and Biotechnology (2014) – Kookmin University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
🎓 Master’s in Forest Products and Biotechnology (2009) – Kookmin University, Seoul, Republic of Korea

Dr. Lee’s academic foundation combines advanced understanding and innovation in forest products. His doctoral research paved the way for breakthroughs in cellulose-based material applications, shaping his career in sustainability and biotechnology.

EXPERIENCE

👨‍🔬 Associate Research Engineer (2014–2018) – Changgung Institute of Paper Science & Technology

  • Innovated recycling technologies for paper packaging.
  • Conducted collaborative research with industries to replace plastics.

🌲 Research Officer (2018–2024) – National Institute of Forest Science

  • Led biomass-based material development research.
  • Provided technical expertise for ISO and Korean standards.

🎓 Associate Professor (2014–Present) – Kookmin University

  • Focused on cellulose-based materials research.
  • Contributed to Korean Standards development as an expert in TC6.

AWARDS AND HONORS

🏆 Recognition for ISO standard development contributions.
🏆 Best Research Paper Award, BioResources (2024).
🏆 Excellence in Sustainable Packaging Innovation (2022).
🏆 Korean Forest Research Leadership Award (2020).
🏆 Acknowledged as a Technical Committee Expert by TC6/SC2.

RESEARCH FOCUS

🔬 Sustainable Materials: Developing advanced materials from biomass for environmental sustainability.
📦 Packaging Innovations: Innovating alternatives to plastics using cellulose and paper.
📚 Standards Development: Technical and administrative contributions to ISO and Korean Standards.
🌿 Cellulose Applications: Exploring cellulose nanocrystals and hydrogels for medical and industrial use.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES

📖 Classification Analysis of Copy Papers Using Infrared Spectroscopy and Machine Learning Modeling
📖 Effect of Polyhydroxybutyrate and Ethyl Cellulose for Barrier Coating of Kraft Paper
📖 Poly(vinyl alcohol) Hydrogels Reinforced with Cellulose Nanocrystals for Sustained Delivery of Salicylic Acid

CONCLUSION

Dr. Tai-Ju Lee is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive academic achievements, innovative research, and commitment to sustainability make him an excellent role model in forest products and biotechnology. While there is potential to broaden his global impact and interdisciplinary reach, his contributions to cellulose-based materials and sustainable packaging are exemplary and align well with the goals of advancing environmental research and applications.

 

Chenghong Ao | Biomass utilization | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Professor Chenghong Ao | Biomass utilization | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor, Kunming University of Science and Technology, China

Chenghong Ao is a prominent researcher at Kunming University of Science and Technology, specializing in materials science and environmental engineering. With a strong background in nanotechnology and waste management, Dr. Ao has made significant contributions to the development of innovative materials for pollution control and resource recovery. His work is characterized by a commitment to sustainability and advancing eco-friendly technologies. Dr. Ao’s research is widely cited, reflecting his influence in the fields of materials science and environmental sustainability.

Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

Chenghong Ao possesses an impressive track record of research contributions in materials science, particularly in the development of innovative materials for environmental applications. With an h-index of 15 and over 1,193 citations from 25 documents, Dr. Ao’s work is highly regarded in the scientific community. His publications focus on advanced materials for pollution remediation, demonstrating both theoretical and practical implications. Notably, his recent research on tunable membranes and nanofiber structures showcases his ability to address pressing environmental issues effectively. Additionally, his collaborations across various interdisciplinary projects enhance the impact and scope of his work.

Areas for Improvement

While Dr. Ao’s research output is commendable, he could enhance his visibility in the global academic community through increased participation in international conferences and workshops. Engaging more with industry partners could also lead to practical applications of his research, bridging the gap between academia and industry. Furthermore, expanding his research to include emerging trends in sustainability and circular economy could broaden the relevance of his findings.

Education

Dr. Chenghong Ao earned a Ph.D. in Polymer Science and Technology from Sichuan University, with a Master’s degree specializing in Materials Science. After completing the Ph.D., he joined Kunming University of Science and Technology as an Associate Professor. During his time at the university, he was honored with the prestigious “Young Scholar” title by Yunnan Province, China, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to research and education in the fields of materials science and polymer technology. This distinction underscores his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and his growing impact within the academic community.

Experience

With over a decade of research experience, Dr. Ao has held various academic and research positions, collaborating with numerous institutions and industries. He has published extensively in high-impact journals and contributed to multiple research projects focusing on sustainable materials and environmental engineering. His expertise encompasses the development of nanofiber membranes, adsorbents, and advanced materials for pollutant removal. Dr. Ao is actively involved in mentoring students and guiding emerging researchers in the field.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Ao has earned several prestigious honors in recognition of his significant contributions to research. Among these accolades is the esteemed title of “Young Talent” from Yunnan Province, which highlights his outstanding achievements in his field. In addition to this honor, Dr. Ao’s work has been widely recognized by academic and scientific communities, further cementing his reputation as an emerging leader in research. His dedication and innovative approach continue to make a substantial impact, and his recognition reflects both the quality and significance of his contributions to advancing knowledge in his area of expertise.

Research Focus

Dr. Ao’s research primarily focuses on the development of advanced materials for environmental applications, particularly in waste management and pollutant remediation. His work includes the fabrication of nanofiber membranes and adsorbents for the efficient removal of contaminants from water and air. Additionally, he explores the use of sustainable materials derived from natural resources, aiming to promote a circular economy and enhance the sustainability of industrial processes.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Ao C, Zhang B, Yuan L, et al. Fabrication of Hollow Electrospun Polypyrrole@ Cellulose Fibrous Membrane for Ultrahigh-flux Dye Removal. Journal of Membrane Science, 2024: 123020.
  2. Ao C, Zhong S, Zhang B, et al. Lanthanum hydroxide@ cellulose membranes with tunable pore sizes for selective removal of dyes with the same charges. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2024, 278: 135002.
  3. Ao C, Zhao J, Liu B, et al. Fabrication of lotus-leaf-like carbonized foams with superhydrophilicity for Oil/Water separation in complex environment. Chemical Engineering Science, 2024, 288: 119850.
  4. Ao C, Jiang L, Wang Q, et al. One-pot superhydrophilic surface modification of waste polyurethane foams for high-efficiency oil/water separation. Journal of Environmental Management, 2022, 315: 115140.
  5. Ao C, Zhao J, Xia T, et al. Multifunctional La(OH)3@cellulose nanofibrous membranes for efficient oil/water separation and selective removal of dyes. Separation and Purification Technology, 2021, 254, 117603.
  6. Ao C, Zhao J, Li Q, et al. Biodegradable all-cellulose composite membranes for simultaneous oil/water separation and dye removal from water. Carbohydrate Polymers, 2020, 250, 116872.
  7. Ao C, Hu R, Zhao J, et al. Reusable, salt-tolerant and superhydrophilic cellulose hydrogel-coated mesh for efficient gravity-driven oil/water separation. Chemical Engineering Journal, 2018, 338, 271-277.  (ESI highly cited)
  8. Ao C, Yuan W, Zhao J, et al. Superhydrophilic graphene oxide@electrospun cellulose nanofiber hybrid membrane for high-efficiency oil/water separation. Carbohydrate Polymers, 2017, 175, 216-222.  
  9. Ao C, Niu Y, Zhang X, et al. Fabrication and characterization of electrospun cellulose/nano-hydroxyapatite nanofibers for bone tissue engineering. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2017, 97, 568-573.
  10. Li Q, Xue Z, Zhao J, Ao C, & Lu C. Mass production of high thermal conductive boron nitride/nanofibrillated cellulose composite membranes. Chemical Engineering Journal, 2019, 383, 123101.”

Conclusion

Chenghong Ao is an exemplary candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His significant contributions to materials science and environmental sustainability, combined with a robust publication record and active engagement in research collaborations, position him as a leader in his field. By addressing the areas for improvement, Dr. Ao can further amplify his impact and continue to contribute meaningfully to environmental solutions, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.