João Grilo | Materials Science and Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. João Grilo | Materials Science and Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Universidade de Aveiro, Portugal

João Paulo de Freitas Grilo is a dedicated researcher in Materials Science and Engineering, specializing in ceramics and electrochemical materials. He earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Aveiro in 2019. With a robust academic background, he has actively contributed to the scientific community through extensive research, numerous publications, and collaborative projects. Currently, he serves as a researcher at the University of Aveiro, focusing on ionic conductors, solid oxide cells, and composite materials. His work has significantly impacted the field of engineering and technology, particularly in advancing material properties for energy applications.

Profile

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Education

João Paulo de Freitas Grilo has an extensive academic background in materials engineering. He completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering in 2019 at the University of Aveiro. Prior to this, he earned a Master’s degree in Materials Engineering from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) in 2015. His undergraduate studies in Materials Engineering were also conducted at UFRN, where he graduated in 2013. Additionally, he obtained a Bachelor’s degree as an Electrical Technician from the Institute of Federal Education, Science, and Technology of Rio Grande do Norte in 2009. His education provided a strong foundation for his research in materials science and engineering, with a particular focus on ceramics and electrochemical applications.

Experience

João Paulo de Freitas Grilo has accumulated a wealth of experience in both research and academic environments. As a researcher at the University of Aveiro, he has been deeply involved in various scientific investigations and technological advancements. His contributions include co-supervising Ph.D. theses and MSc dissertations, demonstrating his role in mentoring and developing the next generation of scientists. He has participated in multiple research projects, assuming roles as a researcher, Ph.D. fellow, and supervisor. His expertise extends to organizing academic events and collaborating with international teams to advance the understanding of solid-state ionic conductors and mixed conductors.

Research Interests

His primary research interests lie in the field of engineering and technology, specifically in materials engineering. His work focuses on ceramics, solid oxide cells, and grain boundary engineering. He has explored ionic and mixed conductors, emphasizing the development of materials for energy applications, including fuel cells and electrochemical devices. His studies also delve into processing techniques and the impact of microstructures on electrical properties. Through his research, he aims to enhance material performance, efficiency, and durability in energy conversion systems. His investigations are instrumental in developing innovative materials for sustainable energy solutions.

Awards

João Paulo de Freitas Grilo has received recognition for his contributions to materials science and engineering. His work has been acknowledged through awards and nominations in prestigious conferences and research institutions. His dedication to advancing ceramics and electrochemical materials has earned him positions in significant scientific projects, reflecting the impact of his research on the scientific community. His contributions to solid oxide fuel cells and composite electrolytes have been widely recognized, making him a leading figure in his area of expertise.

Publications

João Paulo de Freitas Grilo has authored numerous publications in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to the field of materials science. Some of his key publications include:

Tidei, H. J., Yang, T., & Grilo, J. P. F. (2025). “Role of microstructure on the electrical properties of ceria-based composites.” International Journal of Hydrogen Energy.

Melo, K. P. V., Araújo, A. J. M., Grilo, J. P. F., et al. (2024). “Understanding the oxygen reduction reaction of one-dimensional Ca3Co2O6 cathodes for SOFC.” International Journal of Hydrogen Energy.

Starykevich, M., Rondão, A. I. B., Grilo, J. P. F., & Marques, F. M. B. (2023). “Tuning of phase content, microstructure, and thermal expansion of MgPSZ.” Ceramics International.

Araújo, A. J. M., Loureiro, F. J. A., Grilo, J. P. F., et al. (2022). “A high-performance oxygen electrode for solid oxide cells: Compositional optimization of barium cobaltite-based composites.” Journal of Alloys and Compounds.

Rondão, A. I. B., Grilo, J. P. F., Starykevich, M., & Marques, F. M. B. (2022). “Dilatometric inspection of phase changes in Mg-PSZ.” Thermochimica Acta.

Grilo, J. P. F., Jamale, A., Starykevich, M., et al. (2022). “Role of salts on the electrical performance of ceria-based electrolytes: An overview.” Frontiers in Materials.

Garcia, M. F. L., Araújo, A. J. M., Raimundo, R. A., et al. (2021). “Electrical properties of Ca-doped ceria electrolytes prepared by proteic sol-gel route and by solid-state reaction using mollusk shells.” International Journal of Hydrogen Energy.

Conclusion

João Paulo de Freitas Grilo is a prominent researcher in materials science, specializing in ceramics and electrochemical applications. With a solid academic background, extensive research experience, and numerous high-impact publications, he has significantly contributed to advancements in solid oxide fuel cells and composite electrolytes. His work continues to influence the scientific community, paving the way for innovative materials in energy conversion and storage applications. His dedication and expertise make him a valuable asset in the field of materials engineering.

Pietra Borges | Building Materials Environmental Assessment | Best Researcher Award

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Ms Pietra Borges | Building Materials Environmental Assessment | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate, PUCRS, Brazil

Pietra Borges is a Brazilian civil engineer and researcher specializing in materials engineering and sustainable construction. She holds a Civil Engineering degree from the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS) and a Master’s degree in Materials Engineering and Technology. Currently, she is pursuing a PhD at PUCRS and an international research stay at NOVA University in Lisbon. With a strong academic background, she has contributed significantly to research on recycled aggregates, carbon capture, and durability of concrete. She is an active collaborator at UNILA, a PhD scholar, and CEO of Casa da Pantalhas, promoting sustainable interior design. Her research has been published in leading international journals, reflecting her commitment to advancing civil engineering and materials technology.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

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EDUCATION

🎓 Civil Engineering (2015-2019) – PUCRS (Final Grade: 8.08/10)
🎓 Master’s in Materials Engineering and Technology (2020-2022) – PUCRS (Federal Scholarship) under Prof. Dr. Jairo Andrade
🎓 PhD in Materials Engineering and Technology (2022-Present) – PUCRS (Federal Scholarship)
🎓 International PhD Researcher (2023-2024) – NOVA University, Lisbon (Federal Scholarship) under Prof. Dr. Carlos Manuel Chastre Rodrigues
📚 Additional Studies: Public Policy at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (2022-Present)

EXPERIENCE

🔹 Research Collaborator at UNILA in the project “Carbon Capture in Civil Construction Industry” (2022-Present)
🔹 PhD Researcher with Scholarship at PUCRS (2022-Present)
🔹 CEO & Founder of Casa da Pantalhas, a sustainable interior design brand (2015-Present)
🔹 Paper Reviewer for the Latin American Congress of Building Pathologies (2021)
🔹 Scientific Research Intern at PUCRS – Center of Interdisciplinary Studies in Civil Engineering (CISCI) (2017-2019)
🔹 Class Monitor – Construction Materials II (2017) & Structural Concrete II (2018) at PUCRS

AWARDS & HONORS

🏆 Federal Research Scholarship for Master’s and PhD at PUCRS
🏆 International PhD Scholarship for research at NOVA University, Lisbon
🏆 Scientific Research Grant from the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovations, Brazil
🏆 Recognized Reviewer for the Latin American Congress of Building Pathologies
🏆 PUCRS Academic Distinction for research in recycled materials and carbon capture

RESEARCH FOCUS

🔬 Sustainable construction materials and recycling in concrete
🌱 Carbon capture in cement-based materials
🏗️ Durability and microstructural behavior of recycled aggregate concrete
♻️ Green building technologies and eco-friendly materials
🧪 Self-healing concrete and nano-modifications for enhanced performance

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES

📄 Physical-mechanical properties and microstructure changes in mortars with chemically treated coir fibers – Journal of Materials Research and Technology
📄 Mortars with recycled aggregate of construction and demolition waste: mechanical properties and carbon uptake – Construction and Building Materials
📄 Durability of concrete incorporating recycled coarse aggregates: carbonation and service life prediction under chloride-induced corrosion – Construction and Building Materials
📄 Relationship between mechanical properties and carbonation of concretes with construction and demolition waste – Case Studies in Construction Materials
📄 Influence of recycled aggregate replacement and fly ash content in pervious concrete mixtures – Journal of Cleaner Production
📄 Evaluation of Tire Rubber Surface Pre-Treatment and Silica Fume on Concrete Properties – Journal of Cleaner Production
📄 Evaluation of Healing Conditions in Strength Recovery in Self-Healing Concretes – Civil Engineering Research Journal
📄 Analysis of Mechanical and Microstructural Properties of High-Performance Concretes Containing Nanosilica and Silica Fume – Revista Matéria

CONCLUSION

Pietra Borges is a dedicated researcher and engineer passionate about sustainable materials and innovation in civil engineering. Her expertise in recycled aggregates, carbon capture, and self-healing concrete contributes to the advancement of eco-friendly construction practices. With multiple academic achievements, research collaborations, and leadership in sustainability, she continues to make a significant impact in the field.

Yuxia Guo | Coal Gasification Slag Resource Utilization | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr Yuxia Guo | Coal Gasification Slag Resource Utilization | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar, Taiyuan University of Technology, China

Prof. YUXIA GUO is a distinguished researcher specializing in engineering materials and underground engineering at Taiyuan University of Technology, China. Her expertise lies in the resource utilization of industrial waste, enhancing concrete durability, and optimizing backfill mining technology. She has pioneered the development of eco-friendly backfill materials using coal gangue and fly ash, significantly improving mine backfill efficiency and stability. Her work on electrochemical dechlorination has advanced structural safety assessment methods. With multiple patents and research awards, she has made impactful contributions to the industry. Prof. Guo is actively involved in academic development, mentorship, and industry-academia collaborations.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Scopus

STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARDS

✅ Innovative Research Contributions – Prof. Yuxia Guo has significantly contributed to engineering materials and underground engineering, with a strong focus on sustainability, resource utilization, and structural safety. Her work on eco-friendly backfill materials using coal gangue and fly ash has enhanced mine backfill efficiency and safety.

✅ High Impact Publications – With 68 research publications, an h-index of 22, and 1,190 citations, her work demonstrates strong academic influence and impact in the field of materials engineering and mining technology.

✅ Technological Advancements – She has developed electrochemical dechlorination methods for reinforced concrete, improving structural safety assessment techniques.

✅ Patents & Industry Collaboration – Her innovations in backfill mining technology and resource recycling have practical industrial applications, strengthening academia-industry partnerships.

✅ Recognition & Academic Leadership – She has received multiple patents and awards, actively contributes to talent cultivation, and has international research collaborations.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

🔹 More International Visibility – While her research is well-cited, increased participation in international conferences, collaborations, and global research networks could further enhance her global impact.
🔹 Funding & Grants – Securing more international research grants and funding for large-scale projects could further solidify her leadership in the field.

EDUCATION 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Civil Engineering – Taiyuan University of Technology, China 🏗️
  • Master’s in Material Science – Taiyuan University of Technology, China 🏭
  • Bachelor’s in Environmental Engineering – Taiyuan University of Technology, China 🌍

Her academic journey has been centered on sustainable materials, waste utilization, and innovative construction technologies. Through her research, she has bridged material science and environmental engineering, contributing to greener industrial applications.

EXPERIENCE 💼

  • Professor, Taiyuan University of Technology, China 🏛️ (Current)
    • Leads research in sustainable construction materials
    • Supervises postgraduate students in civil and environmental engineering
  • Researcher, National Engineering Research Center for Coal Mining ⛏️
    • Developed backfill mining solutions for underground safety
  • Visiting Scholar, University of California, Berkeley, USA 🌎
    • Conducted studies on electrochemical dechlorination for concrete structures
  • Consultant, Mining Safety and Environmental Protection Institute 🏭
    • Advised on mine backfill efficiency and safety improvement

Prof. Guo has collaborated with global researchers and industry leaders to drive technological advancements in civil engineering and mining applications.

AWARDS AND HONORS 🏆

  • Best Researcher Award in Civil Engineering 🥇
  • China Outstanding Young Scientist Award 🌟
  • National Science and Technology Progress Award 🏅
  • Top 100 Most Cited Researchers in Construction Materials 📚
  • Innovation Excellence Award in Underground Engineering 🏗️
  • Recipient of Multiple Patents for Backfill Technologies 🔬

Her groundbreaking research has been recognized with prestigious awards, reinforcing her impact in engineering materials and structural safety.

RESEARCH FOCUS 🔬

  • Utilization of Industrial Waste in Construction ♻️
  • Durability Enhancement of Concrete Structures 🏢
  • Backfill Mining Technology for Underground Stability ⛏️
  • Electrochemical Dechlorination of Reinforced Concrete ⚡
  • Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials 🌱

Prof. Guo’s research aims to reduce industrial waste, improve structural longevity, and develop safer mining technologies through innovative material science.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES 📄

  • Mechanical performance of cemented gangue backfill body under coupling action of load and sulfate environment 🏗️
  • Strength evolution and deterioration law of cemented gangue backfill body in acid mine water ⚒️
  • Study on the excitation effect and mechanism of coal gasification slag based on solid waste 🔬
  • Damage evolution and failure characteristics of a cemented gangue backfill considering direct shear and dynamic tests 📊
  • A new method of rock burst hazard determination based on drilling cuttings limit equation ⛏️
  • Design and adaptability study of miniature four-leg top coal caving hydraulic support 🚧

CONCLUSION

Prof. Yuxia Guo is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given her impactful contributions to engineering materials, sustainability, and mining technology. Her research has advanced both academic knowledge and industrial applications. Enhancing her international collaborations and securing more grants would further elevate her research profile.

Muhammad Kashif Anwar | Sustainable infrastructure And Green materials | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Muhammad Kashif Anwar | Sustainable infrastructure And Green materials | Best Researcher Award

Master Student/Research Assistant, Tongji University, China

Muhammad Kashif Anwar is a researcher and faculty member at Tongji University, Shanghai, China, specializing in civil engineering, particularly construction and pavement materials. He is known for his expertise in the utilization of waste materials in concrete and asphalt, aiming to promote sustainability in infrastructure. With a focus on advanced materials science, he is deeply involved in studying concrete and polymer composites’ performance under various conditions. Dr. Anwar has contributed significantly to the development of eco-friendly and circular economy-based solutions in the construction industry.

Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

Muhammad Kashif Anwar is an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his extensive and impactful contributions to the field of civil engineering, specifically in the areas of sustainable construction materials and environmentally-friendly practices. His research on utilizing waste materials in concrete, asphalt, and polymer composites highlights a commitment to advancing circular economy concepts within the construction industry. With over 40 published papers in reputable international journals, his work on sustainable infrastructure and the development of eco-friendly materials stands out for its relevance to climate change mitigation and green construction. Dr. Anwar’s application of advanced decision-making tools, machine learning techniques, and digital simulations in optimizing construction materials is a testament to his innovative approach and technical expertise.

Furthermore, his consistent collaborations with international researchers and participation in high-impact publications demonstrates his leadership in the field. His work is frequently cited, reflecting the high influence and practical application of his research in real-world scenarios.

Key strengths include

  • Innovative application of waste materials in construction (e.g., fly ash, polymer composites, silica fume).
  • Expertise in circular economy and sustainability in civil engineering.
  • Development of advanced decision-making frameworks and machine learning models.
  • Cross-disciplinary collaboration with researchers from diverse fields such as environmental science and disaster management.

Areas for Improvement

While Dr. Anwar’s research is outstanding, there are areas where continued growth could further enhance his already impressive profile:

  1. Greater Focus on Commercialization and Industry Implementation: Though his work on sustainable materials is highly promising, exploring pathways to bring these innovations to the construction industry at a larger scale would help bridge the gap between research and industry adoption. His involvement in pilot projects or industry partnerships could push his research into practical, real-world applications.
  2. Interdisciplinary Research Integration: Expanding his work into even more interdisciplinary fields, such as energy-efficient building design or smart city infrastructure, could open new avenues for innovation and impact.
  3. Broader Geographic Reach: While his work has substantial influence in Asian regions, collaborating with researchers in other geographically diverse regions could diversify his research’s global impact and widen its applicability to different construction environments.

Education

Dr. Anwar holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Tongji University, Shanghai, China. His academic journey is centered on sustainable construction materials, with a special emphasis on the mechanical properties of concrete and asphalt mixtures, utilizing alternative and waste-based materials. His research is rooted in the goal of achieving sustainable development in the construction sector, focusing on enhancing material performance while reducing environmental impact.

Experience

Dr. Anwar has extensive experience as a researcher and faculty member at Tongji University. He has collaborated on numerous interdisciplinary projects involving the optimization of construction materials, including self-compacting concrete, polymer concrete composites, and asphalt mixtures. He has also been actively involved in developing sustainable infrastructure solutions, employing advanced techniques such as machine learning and digital analysis. His work includes both experimental and numerical simulation studies, contributing to the advancement of construction technology and disaster risk management frameworks.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Anwar has received recognition for his contributions to the field of civil engineering, particularly in sustainability and construction materials. His work on sustainable concrete, polymer composites, and circular economy applications has earned him several accolades and awards. He has also been featured in prominent academic journals and recognized by international organizations for his innovative research in eco-friendly materials and the development of green construction technologies.

Research Focus

Dr. Anwar’s research focuses on developing sustainable construction materials that promote environmental sustainability. Key areas include the optimization of concrete and asphalt mixtures using waste materials, the application of polymer composites for circular economy solutions, and improving material performance under varying environmental conditions. He is also focused on advancing the application of digital techniques and machine learning in predicting material properties and optimizing construction practices for sustainable infrastructure development.

Publication Top Notes

  • Analysis of mechanical properties of self-compacted concrete by partial replacement of cement with industrial wastes under elevated temperature (2018) 🏗️
  • Scientific risk performance analysis and development of disaster management framework: a case study of developing Asian countries (2021) 🌍
  • Utilization of polymer concrete composites for a circular economy: A comparative review for assessment of recycling and waste utilization (2021) ♻️
  • Recycling and utilization of polymers for road construction projects: An application of the circular economy concept (2021) 🚧
  • Optimization of fresh and mechanical properties of sustainable concrete composite containing ARGF and fly ash (2023) ⚙️
  • Marshall stability and flow analysis of asphalt concrete under progressive temperature conditions (2020) 🌡️
  • Numerical Simulations of GFRP-Reinforced Columns Having Polypropylene and Polyvinyl Alcohol Fibers (2020) 🏢
  • Predicting compressive strength of blast furnace slag and fly ash based sustainable concrete using machine learning techniques (2022) 🤖
  • Performance optimization approach of polymer modified asphalt mixtures with PET and PE wastes (2022) 🔄
  • Symmetric performance analysis for mechanical properties of sustainable asphalt materials under varying temperature conditions (2020) 🌡️
  • Utilization of self-consolidated green material for sustainable development (2021) 🌱
  • Structural performance of GFRP bars based high-strength RC columns (2022) 🏗️
  • Performance evaluation of modified bitumen using EPS beads for green and sustainable development (2020) 🛣️
  • Optimization and utilization of waste fly ash and silica fume based eco-friendly geopolymer mortar (2023) ⚒️
  • Utilization of radium-bead material for road safety (2021) 🚸
  • Evaluating the role of AI and empirical models for predicting regional economic growth and transportation dynamics (2024) 🧠
  • Analysis of Aggregate Shape And Texture By Advance Image Analysis Technique (2019) 🖼️
  • Mitigation of CO2 by Improving Efficiency of Cement Use Through production of Eco-friendly LC3 Cement (2020) 🌍

Conclusion

Muhammad Kashif Anwar is an exceptionally deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to sustainable construction materials, circular economy principles, and climate-conscious infrastructure make him a pioneering researcher in the field of civil engineering. His consistent record of highly cited publications, interdisciplinary collaborations, and application of advanced technologies positions him as a leading expert who is shaping the future of sustainable infrastructure. With continued focus on practical implementation and global outreach, Dr. Anwar can amplify his influence even further. His work embodies the spirit of innovation, sustainability, and scientific advancement, making him a true asset to both academia and the broader construction industry.

Thatikonda Naresh – sustainable materials – Best Researcher Award

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Thatikonda Naresh - sustainable materials - Best Researcher Award

National institute of technology Arunachal Pradesh - India

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS AND EXPERTISE

Thatikonda Naresh is well-versed in structural engineering with a solid foundation in maintaining materials testing and civil lab equipment. His expertise includes knowledge in strength of materials, concrete and highway materials testing, and proficiency in CAD and STARD PRO LAB. Naresh has hands-on experience with various civil engineering tools such as Universal Testing Machines (UTM), Total Stations, Rebound Hammers, UV Spectrometers, and California Bearing Ratio (C.B.R) testers.

RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS

Naresh has contributed significantly to the field of geopolymer concrete through various publications. Notable works include "Evaluation of Self-Compacting Geopolymer Concrete Properties Containing Different Water Glass Solutions" and "Activation of Self-Compacted Geopolymer Concrete Using Neutral-Grade Single Activator Solution," both published in high-impact journals. His research also covers the physical and mechanical properties of geopolymer mortar and the influence of activator solutions on self-compacting geopolymer concrete.

HONORS AND AWARDS

Naresh has been recognized for his contributions to academia and research. In 2019, he received a 'Certificate of Appreciation' from CJITS & LABTECH INNOVATIONS for his role as Conference Coordinator at the 3rd International Conference on Research and Modern Innovations in Engineering and Technology (ICRMIET-19). Additionally, he earned a 'Certificate of Appreciation' and a 'Certificate of Excellence' for his roles as Faculty Coordinator in organizing workshops and national series at Christu Jyoti Institute of Technology & Science.

RESEARCH FOCUS ON GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE

Naresh’s research primarily revolves around geopolymer concrete, with a focus on enhancing its properties using various activators and alternative cementitious materials. His studies, including those on micro-silica as a replacement for fly ash-GGBFS and the influence of binder composition, aim to advance the understanding and application of self-compacting geopolymer concrete in construction.

CONFERENCE PARTICIPATION AND COORDINATION

Beyond research, Naresh has demonstrated strong organizational skills by coordinating conferences and workshops. His involvement in events such as the 3rd ICRMIET and various advanced surveying and national workshop series underscores his commitment to promoting knowledge and innovation in the field of engineering.

LABORATORY EXPERIENCE

Naresh's practical experience includes preparing and maintaining lab manuals and stock registers, which reflects his attention to detail and organizational capabilities. His hands-on work with lab equipment and materials testing reinforces his technical skills and dedication to maintaining high standards in civil engineering research and practice.

ACADEMIC CONTRIBUTIONS

His academic achievements and contributions to research and education highlight Naresh's role in advancing structural engineering and materials science. His ongoing work in the field continues to contribute valuable insights and innovations, shaping the future of civil engineering practices and technologies.