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.

BALARAM KUNDU | Solar Energy | Lifetime achievement Award

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Prof. Dr BALARAM KUNDU | Solar Energy | Lifetime achievement Award

Professor, Jadavpur University, India

Dr. Balaram Kundu is a distinguished professor in Mechanical Engineering at Jadavpur University, India. With a career spanning over two decades, he has made significant contributions to heat transfer, nanomaterials, and thermal systems. He earned his Ph.D. from IIT Kharagpur and has held prestigious positions at Hanyang University, South Korea, and other international institutions. Recognized among the top 2% of global scientists by Stanford University (2020-2024), Dr. Kundu has collaborated with researchers worldwide, including Japan, the USA, and Thailand. His work focuses on innovative solutions for energy efficiency, biomedical applications, and sustainable technologies. A recipient of numerous awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award (2024), he continues to inspire future engineers and researchers.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Orcid

Scopus

Education 🎓

Dr. Kundu graduated with a B.E. in Mechanical Engineering from NIT Durgapur (1993) and an M.E. in Thermal Engineering from IIEST Shibpur (1995). He completed his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur in 2000. His academic journey reflects a strong foundation in thermal sciences and engineering, paving the way for his groundbreaking research in heat transfer, nanomaterials, and energy systems. His international exposure includes visiting faculty roles at Saga University, Japan, and Hanyang University, South Korea, enriching his expertise in global research methodologies.

Experience 💼

Dr. Kundu began his career as a Lecturer at Jalpaiguri Government Engineering College (1998-2002) and joined Jadavpur University in 2003, rising to Professor. He served as a Research Professor at Hanyang University, South Korea (2010-2012), under the Brain Korea 21 program. His international collaborations include research stints in Japan, the USA, Thailand, and Turkey. He has also been invited to join institutions like King Mongkut’s University of Technology, Thailand, and Sejong University, South Korea. His extensive teaching and research experience spans heat transfer, thermal systems, and energy optimization, making him a global leader in mechanical engineering.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Dr. Kundu has been recognized among the top 2% of global scientists by Stanford University (2020-2024). He received the Lifetime Achievement Award (2024), Outstanding Scientist Award (2021), and Distinguished Scientist Award (2017). Other accolades include the VIFFA Outstanding Faculty Award (2015), Teacher’s Excellence Award (2015), and Institutional Medal for Best Paper (1999). His contributions to thermal sciences and engineering have earned him international acclaim, with invitations to prestigious institutions worldwide. These honors reflect his dedication to advancing research and education in mechanical engineering.

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Kundu’s research focuses on heat transfer in composite materials, nanomaterials, and biological systems. He explores applications in hyperthermia treatment, solar energy, thermal insulation, and thermoelectric generators. His work also includes analytical heat transfer, extended surface heat transfer, and electro-osmotic flow. By integrating fractional derivatives and advanced mathematical models, he addresses complex thermal challenges in engineering and biomedical fields. His research aims to optimize energy systems, improve thermal management, and develop sustainable technologies, contributing to global advancements in mechanical engineering and applied sciences.

Publication Top Notes 📚

  1. Parametric optimization of solar air heaters with dimples on absorber plates using metaheuristic approaches.
  2. Two-Dimensional Analysis of Absorber Plates in Solar Collectors with a Nonlinear Plate Temperature at the Tube Section.
  3. Experimental and meta-heuristic optimization for the highest thermo-hydraulic performance of a solar air heater.
  4. A Review of Artificial Intelligence Methods in Predicting Thermophysical Properties of Nanofluids.
  5. A Review of Thermoelectric Generators in Automobile Waste Heat Recovery Systems.
  6. Parametric Optimization of Solar Air Heaters Having Hemispherical Protrusion Roughness.
  7. Analytical model for extremum analysis of moistened fins involving all nonlinear energy exchange processes.
  8. Multi-objective optimization of electrokinetic energy conversion efficiency and entropy generation.
  9. Exergy evaluation of integrated liquefier-cryocondensation and cryosorption helium purification systems.
  10. Review and Analysis of Electro-Magnetohydrodynamic Flow and Heat Transport in Microchannels.

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Balaram Kundu is a trailblazer in mechanical engineering, with a career marked by groundbreaking research, international collaborations, and numerous accolades. His contributions to heat transfer, nanomaterials, and energy systems have positioned him as a global leader in the field. Through his innovative research and dedication to education, he continues to inspire future generations of engineers and scientists, driving advancements in sustainable technologies and thermal sciences.

Baolin Liu | Electrochemical energy storage | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Baolin Liu | Electrochemical energy storage | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctor, Southern University of Science and Technology, China

Baolin Liu is a dedicated researcher with a strong academic background in chemistry and physics. He holds a Doctor of Science in Chemistry from Xinjiang University and is currently a post-doctoral fellow at the Southern University of Science and Technology. His research focuses on advanced materials for energy storage and conversion, particularly in sodium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, and catalytic applications. With over 30 publications in high-impact journals, Baolin has made significant contributions to the field of materials science. His work emphasizes the development of nanostructured materials, defect engineering, and heterostructures to enhance electrochemical performance. Baolin is also an active member of the scientific community, contributing to various collaborative projects and mentoring students.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Scopus

Education 🎓

  • 2024.01-Present: Post-doctoral Fellow, Physics, Southern University of Science and Technology, China.
  • 2019.09-2023.12: Doctor of Science, Chemistry, Xinjiang University, China.
  • 2016.09-2019.06: Master of Science, Chemistry, Xinjiang University, China.
  • 2014.09-2015.06: Bachelor of Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, China.
  • 2012.09-2016.06: Bachelor of Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Tarim University, China.

Experience 💼

  • Post-doctoral Research: Focused on advanced materials for energy storage and conversion, including sodium-ion batteries and supercapacitors.
  • Doctoral Research: Specialized in catalytic materials for CO oxidation and coal liquefaction, with expertise in nanostructured materials and defect engineering.
  • Collaborative Projects: Worked on interdisciplinary projects involving nanomaterials, electrochemistry, and catalysis.
  • Mentorship: Guided graduate and undergraduate students in research methodologies and experimental techniques.

Awards and Honors 🏆

  • Scopus Author ID: Recognized for high-impact publications in materials science and chemistry.
  • Research Excellence: Multiple papers published in top-tier journals like Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, Small, and Chemical Engineering Journal.
  • Collaborative Achievements: Contributed to projects funded by national and institutional grants.
  • Academic Recognition: Received accolades for innovative research in energy storage and catalytic materials.

Research Focus 🔬

Baolin Liu’s research focuses on the design and synthesis of advanced materials for energy storage and conversion. His work includes:

  • Sodium-ion Batteries: Developing high-performance anode materials using nanostructured composites and defect engineering.
  • Supercapacitors: Exploring carbon-based materials and heterostructures for enhanced electrochemical performance.
  • Catalysis: Investigating catalytic materials for CO oxidation, hydrogenation, and environmental applications.
  • Nanomaterials: Engineering nanostructured materials with tailored properties for energy and catalytic applications.

Publication Top Notes 📚

  1. 2D heterostructural Mn2O3 quantum dots embedded N-doped carbon nanosheets with strongly stable interface enabling high-performance sodium-ion hybrid capacitors
  2. Construction of WS2/NC@C nanoflake composites as performance-enhanced anodes for sodium-ion batteries
  3. Enhancing sodium-ion battery performance through crystalline water-assisted Zn2V2O7 anode material
  4. High quality bifunctional cathode for rechargeable zinc-air batteries using N-doped carbon nanotubes constrained CoFe alloy
  5. Metal-electronegativity-induced sulfur-vacancies and heterostructures of MnS1-x/ZnS-NC@C with dual-carbon decoration for high-performance sodium-ion storage
  6. Nano-bowl-like carbon confined 1T/2H-MoS2 hybrids as anode for high-performance sodium-ion storage
  7. Remarkable upgrade of hydrogen evolution activity up to 40.8 folds and mechanistic investigation of expediting charge transfer achieved by Bi2O3-modified TiO2 photocatalyst
  8. Structure and Defect Engineering of V3S4−xSex Quantum Dots Confined in a Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Framework for High-Performance Sodium-Ion Storage
  9. Synergistic promotion for the performance of photocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction by vacancy engineering and N-doped carbon nanotubes
  10. Bi@C sandwiched carbon nanolayers enables remarkable cyclability at high current density for lithium-ion batteries
  11. Construction of oxygen vacancies and heterostructure in VO2-x/NC with enhanced reversible capacity, accelerated redox kinetics, and stable cycling life for sodium ion storage
  12. Honeycomb carbon obtained from coal liquefaction residual asphaltene for high-performance supercapacitors in ionic and organic liquid-based electrolytes
  13. Oxygen self-doped hierarchical porous carbons derived from coal liquefaction residue for high-performance supercapacitors in organic and ionic liquid-based electrolytes
  14. Sulfur-Bridged Bonds Heightened Na-Storage Properties in MnS Nanocubes Encapsulated by S-Doped Carbon Matrix Synthesized via Solvent-Free Tactics for High-Performance Hybrid Sodium Ion Capacitors
  15. Constructing ultrafine Cu nanoparticles encapsulated by N-doped carbon nanosheets with fast kinetics for high-performance lithium/sodium storage
  16. Phosphorus/sulfur co-doped hard carbon with a well-designed porous bowl-like structure and enhanced initial coulombic efficiency for high-performance sodium storage
  17. Solid-State Construction of CuOx/Cu1.5Mn1.5O4 Nanocomposite with Abundant Surface CuOx Species and Oxygen Vacancies to Promote CO Oxidation Activity
  18. Copper-based catalysts for CO oxidation, 用于CO氧化的铜基催化剂研究进展
  19. In-situ impregnation of β-FeOOH on coal by solid-state reaction toward direct coal liquefaction
  20. Insight into the Crystal Structures and Surface Property of Manganese Oxide on CO Catalytic Oxidation Performance
  21. A “two-pronged” strategy: Boosting electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction property based on the Ni–MnO synergistic effect and high conductivity of rod-like Ni–MnO/N–C composites prepared via simple solution-free route
  22. Engineering CuOx–ZrO2–CeO2 nanocatalysts with abundant surface Cu species and oxygen vacancies toward high catalytic performance in CO oxidation and 4-nitrophenol reduction
  23. The solid-state in situ construction of Cu2O/CuO heterostructures with adjustable phase compositions to promote CO oxidation activity
  24. Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Supported on Modified Coal toward Catalytic Hydrogenation of Coal to Oil
  25. Solvent‐Free Chemical Approach to Synthesize Co Nanoparticles Supported on N‐doped Porous Carbon for Efficient Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction
  26. Room-Temperature Solid-State Preparation of CoFe2O4@Coal Composites and Their Catalytic Performance in Direct Coal Liquefaction
  27. Cu/Cu2O/rGO nanocomposites: solid-state self-reduction synthesis and catalytic activity for p-nitrophenol reduction
  28. Optimum Balance of Cu + and Oxygen Vacancies of CuO x ‐CeO 2 Composites for CO Oxidation Based on Thermal Treatment
  29. V-modified Co3O4 nanorods with superior catalytic activity and thermostability for CO oxidation

Conclusion 🎯

Baolin Liu is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His prolific publication record, innovative research contributions, and interdisciplinary expertise make him a standout researcher in materials science and chemistry. While there are areas for improvement, such as expanding international collaborations and industry engagement, his strengths far outweigh these considerations. His work has already made a significant impact, and with continued dedication, he is poised to achieve even greater heights in his research career.

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.