Tarek Ahasan | Photocatalytic Water Splitting for Hydrogen Production | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Tarek Ahasan | Photocatalytic Water Splitting for Hydrogen Production | Best Researcher Award

Graduate Research Assistant, New Mexico State University, United States

Tarek Ahasan is an accomplished Ph.D. candidate in Environmental Engineering at New Mexico State University, specializing in sustainable energy and water treatment technologies. With a strong academic foundation, including dual master’s degrees in Environmental Engineering and Environmental Science, Tarek focuses on innovative solutions for green hydrogen production and advanced water desalination. His research integrates photocatalysis and electromagnetic field applications to address global energy and water security challenges. Recognized for his contributions, Tarek has received prestigious awards, published in high-impact journals, and filed a patent for his groundbreaking work in photocatalytic systems. He is an active member of professional organizations and a leader in academic communities, dedicated to advancing sustainable technologies for a decarbonized future.

Professional Profile

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Education 🎓

Tarek Ahasan is pursuing a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering at New Mexico State University (NMSU), expected to graduate in Fall 2025, with a concurrent Master of Science in Environmental Engineering (CGPA: 4.00/4.00). He holds a Master of Science in Environmental Science (CGPA: 3.92/4.00) and a Bachelor of Science in Soil, Water, and Environment (CGPA: 3.57/4.00) from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. His academic journey reflects a strong focus on sustainable energy, water treatment, and environmental systems, equipping him with the expertise to drive innovative research in green technologies.

Experience 🔬

As a Graduate Research Assistant at NMSU, Tarek has led groundbreaking projects on photocatalytic hydrogen production and electromagnetic field-enhanced desalination. He developed a novel Ag-G-TiO2 nanocomposite photocatalyst, achieving 97% dye degradation efficiency and 191 μmoles g⁻¹ h⁻¹ hydrogen production. Additionally, he optimized electromagnetic field pretreatment for membrane scaling control, achieving 51.3% water recovery. Previously, at the University of Dhaka, he advanced sustainable coagulation techniques for dye effluent treatment and conducted nationwide soil health assessments to address climate change impacts on agriculture. His work bridges research and practical applications, contributing to global sustainability goals.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Tarek has been recognized with multiple awards, including the 2023-2024 New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute (NM WRRI) student grant and the National Science and Technology Fellowship (2019-20) from the Government of Bangladesh. He earned Second Place for Outstanding Poster Presentation at the 20th Annual RMSAWWA/RMWEA Student Conference (2024) and the Texas Desal Annual Conference (2023). His research has been featured in the NMWRRI Online Newsletter, highlighting his contributions to sustainable energy and water technologies.

Research Focus 🔍

Tarek’s research centers on developing sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, focusing on green hydrogen production through advanced photocatalysis and innovative water treatment technologies. His work includes synthesizing nanocomposite photocatalysts for visible light-driven hydrogen production and optimizing electromagnetic field applications for membrane scaling control in desalination. By integrating renewable energy systems with water security solutions, Tarek aims to address global decarbonization and resource sustainability challenges, contributing to a cleaner, more resilient future.

Publication Top Notes 📚

  1. Ahasan, T., Xu, P., & Wang, H. (2024). Dual-Function Photocatalysis in the Visible Spectrum: Ag-G-TiO2 for Simultaneous Dye Wastewater Degradation and Hydrogen Production. Catalysts, 14(8), 530.
  2. Ahasan, T., Edirisooriya, E. M. N. T., Senanayake, P. S., Xu, P., & Wang, H. (2025). Advanced TiO2-Based Photocatalytic Systems for Water Splitting: Comprehensive Review from Fundamentals to Manufacturing. Molecules, 30(5), 1127.
  3. Du, X., Perera, H., Ahasan, T., Wang, Y., Shu, F., Wang, H., Yuan, K., Anovitz, L. M., Ben Ishai, P., & Xu, P. (2025). Mechanisms of Electromagnetic Field Control on Mineral Scaling in Brackish Water Reverse Osmosis: Combined Homogenous and Heterogeneous Nucleation. Separation and Purification Technology, 355(B), 129630.

Conclusion 🌍

Tarek Ahasan is a visionary researcher dedicated to advancing sustainable energy and water treatment technologies. Through his innovative work in photocatalysis and desalination, he is paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future. His achievements in research, publications, and professional recognition underscore his commitment to addressing global energy and water challenges. Tarek’s contributions exemplify the transformative potential of environmental engineering in achieving decarbonization and resource security.

 

Balasundaram P | Thermal Energy Storage | Sustainable Infrastructure Innovation Award

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Mr Balasundaram P | Thermal Energy Storage | Sustainable Infrastructure Innovation Award

Research Scholar, National Institute of Technolodgy, India

Balasundaram P is a dedicated researcher in Mechanical Engineering, currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the National Institute of Technology Puducherry. His research focuses on phase change materials for thermal energy storage under the supervision of Dr. N.M. Sivaram. He has a strong academic foundation with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Annamalai University, where he achieved distinction. With over two decades of expertise, Balasundaram has contributed significantly to the fields of energy storage, waste heat recovery, and thermal systems. His research findings are well-documented in leading journals and conferences.

PROFILE

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STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARD

  1. Diverse Academic Foundation: Balasundaram P has a robust academic background, including a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a research focus on Phase Change Material for Thermal Energy Storage, highlighting innovation and sustainability in engineering.
  2. Research Publications: The author has contributed to high-impact journals and books, such as the Journal of Energy Storage and Materials Today: Proceedings. These works demonstrate expertise in energy storage, composite materials, and manufacturing technologies.
  3. Interdisciplinary Expertise: Balasundaram’s research spans crucial areas like waste heat recovery, thermal power engineering, and sustainable manufacturing. These align with contemporary global challenges in energy efficiency and material optimization.
  4. Recognized Contributions: The inclusion in collaborative projects with significant contributors in the field underscores the ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment.
  5. Technical Knowledge: Hands-on projects, such as investigating Phase Change Materials (PCM) and sustainable practices in aluminum alloy machining, reflect applied expertise in solving real-world engineering problems.

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENTS

  1. Enhanced Dissemination: While publications are notable, increased participation in global conferences and high-impact research grants could further solidify the reputation.
  2. Collaborative Networking: Expanding international collaborations could enhance visibility and the scope of research.
  3. Research Diversity: Balasundaram could broaden the focus to include emerging areas like AI-driven thermal system optimization or energy policy research.

EDUCATION

🎓 Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering
National Institute of Technology Puducherry, 2020–Present

  • Research Area: Phase Change Material for Thermal Energy Storage
  • Supervisor: Dr. N.M. Sivaram

🎓 Master of Engineering (M.E.) in Thermal Power Engineering
Annamalai University, 2012–2014

  • CGPA: 8.23/10 (First Class)

🎓 Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Mechanical Engineering
Annamalai University, 2008–2011

  • CGPA: 8.28/10 (Distinction)

🎓 Diploma in Refrigeration and Airconditioning
Valivalam Desikar Polytechnic College, 1995–1998

EXPERIENCE

🔧 Over two decades of expertise in Mechanical Engineering, specializing in energy storage and waste heat recovery.
🔬 Involved in advanced research on phase change materials to enhance thermal energy storage systems.
🖋 Published multiple journal articles and book chapters in esteemed international platforms.
📚 Served as a mentor and contributor in collaborative research with industry and academia.

AWARDS AND HONORS

🏆 Distinction in B.E. Mechanical Engineering from Annamalai University.
🏅 Numerous research contributions cited in leading journals such as Journal of Energy Storage.
🎖 Recognized for impactful research on phase change materials in thermal systems.

RESEARCH FOCUS

💡 Phase Change Materials for Thermal Energy Storage
🌱 Sustainable energy solutions in waste heat recovery systems.
☀️ Thermal energy storage integration in solar dryers.
🔧 Performance enhancement of metal matrix composites and aluminum alloys.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES

1️⃣ Selection of phase change material under uncertainty for waste heat recovery in diesel engine generator.
2️⃣ A VIKOR-based selection of phase change material for thermal energy storage in solar dryer system.
3️⃣ An Evaluation of Density and Compression Properties of AZ91D–SiC Metal Matrix Composite Produced Through Powder Metallurgy.
4️⃣ Sustainable Turning of 6063 Aluminum Alloy in Dry Condition Using Gray Relational Analysis.

CONCLUSION

Balasundaram P’s contributions in phase change materials, waste heat recovery, and sustainable engineering position him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication to innovative and practical solutions in energy storage reflects exceptional potential and achievement. Strategic efforts in expanding global reach and interdisciplinary collaboration would further cement his standing as a thought leader in his field.