Yuxuan Zhu | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yuxuan Zhu | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

The Institute of Seawater Desalination and Multipurpose Utilization | China

Dr. Zhu Yuxuan is a dedicated and highly motivated researcher in Materials Science and Engineering, specializing in materials chemistry and electrocatalytic membrane water treatment. Currently pursuing a PhD at Tiangong University (2021–2025), a Double First-Class institution, she focuses on the development of nano conductive carbon membranes and advanced solutions for industrial wastewater purification. Her doctoral work builds upon her strong foundation from both her Master’s (2018–2021) and Bachelor’s (2014–2018) degrees in Materials Science at Shandong Jianzhu University, where she gained extensive expertise in inorganic chemistry, solid-state physics, material testing, functional inorganic materials, and nanomaterials. Throughout her academic journey, she has engaged in impactful scientific research projects, including contributions to the Jiangxi Provincial Key R&D Program and the National Key R&D Program, where she played a crucial role in developing innovative electrochemically enhanced membrane separation methodologies, leading research teams, coordinating project milestones, and preparing comprehensive technical reports. Zhu Yuxuan has demonstrated exceptional scholarly productivity, having published nine first-author papers in respected journals such as Chemical Engineering Journal (IF 13.4), Separation and Purification Technology (IF 8.2), Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering (IF 7.4), Journal of Alloys and Compounds, and others across Q1 and core-indexed journals. In addition to her strong publication record, she has contributed to five authorized patents, covering innovations in porous carbon composite materials, supercapacitor electrode materials, mesoporous carbon-metal oxide composites, and laboratory equipment design, reflecting both scientific ingenuity and practical engineering capability. Her research excellence has earned her numerous awards, including the Excellent Report Award at the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Membrane Forum (2024), university scholarships, and multiple provincial-level recognitions in academic competitions such as the “Internet+,” “Challenge Cup,” and energy conservation contests. Beyond her scientific achievements, she has held several leadership positions, including Chairman of the College Student Union and active member of the University Association for Science and Technology, earning distinctions as an Excellent Student Cadre and Outstanding Graduate Student in Social Practice. She possesses strong technical skills, including computational simulation (MS simulation, molecular dynamics) and proficiency in advanced characterization techniques such as SEM, IR spectroscopy, LC-MS, UV spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and Raman spectroscopy. With a robust academic background, extensive research experience, and a proven record of innovation, Zhu Yuxuan continues to make significant contributions to the fields of materials chemistry, electrocatalysis, and environmental water treatment.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Zhu, Y. (2026). Mediation of superoxide radicals enhances the efficient degradation of dimethylacetamide in continuous flow-through three-dimensional electrochemical membrane reactor. Separation and Purification Technology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2025.135619

Zhu, Y. (2025, December). B–N bond-mediated boron-doped chitosan-derived carbon membranes for efficient and stable electro-synthesis of H2O2. Journal of Alloys and Compounds. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2025.185001

Zhu, Y. (2025). An ultrathin Al2O3 ceramic membrane prepared by organic-inorganic blending with solvent evaporation and high-temperature sintering for highly efficient oil/water separation. Journal of Water Process Engineering. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2025.107116

Zhu, Y. (2025). Conductive carbon/Al2O3 mixed-matrix membrane cathode for efficient electrocatalytic production of H2O2. Separation and Purification Technology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2025.134120

Zhu, Y. (2025). Continuous flow-through electro-Fenton membrane reactor with Fe–N4-doped carbon membrane as cathode for efficient removal of dimethylacetamide. Separation and Purification Technology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2024.129290

Zhu, Y. (2025). Electrochemical reactor with carbon membrane electrodes for efficient phenol removal via anode and cathode synergism. NPJ Clean Water. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41545-024-00432-4

Nighil Nath MP | Chemistry and Materials Science | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Nighil Nath MP | Chemistry and Materials Science | Editorial Board Member

University of Calicut | India

Dr. Nighil Nath M. P. is a dedicated physicist and educator whose research focuses on condensed matter theory, materials science, glass-forming systems, plastic crystals, low-temperature physics, and broadband dielectric spectroscopy. With a strong foundation in both theoretical and experimental physics, he has significantly contributed to understanding the thermal and dielectric behaviors of orientationally disordered systems. His investigations using advanced techniques such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and temperature-controlled X-Ray Diffraction (X-RD) have shed light on the structural and phase transition dynamics of complex molecular materials. Dr. Nath earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Calicut, Kerala, in 2022, where his thesis, “Thermal and Spectroscopic Investigations on Some Plastic Crystals,” provided deep insights into the thermal and dielectric relaxation mechanisms in molecular solids. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Physics from Zamorin’s Guruvayurappan College (2008) and an M.Sc. in Physics from CMS College, Kottayam (2012). Over the years, he has demonstrated a strong passion for advancing material characterization techniques and understanding the microscopic processes governing physical properties of crystalline and amorphous materials. Dr. Nath’s publication record reflects his rigorous approach to scientific inquiry. His works have appeared in prestigious journals such as Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, Indian Journal of Physics, Journal of Molecular Liquids, and Materials Today Proceedings. Among his notable contributions are studies on tetrahedrally coordinated organic plastic crystals, phase transition dynamics in cyclohexene oxide, and dielectric relaxation in ionic liquids. These papers not only enrich the literature on material science but also open new pathways for the application of plastic crystals and related compounds in energy storage and optoelectronic devices. Beyond research, Dr. Nath is an accomplished academic mentor, having guided over 50 M.Sc. students in various experimental and theoretical projects between 2014 and 2020. Currently serving as a High School Assistant (Physical Science) at the Government Higher Secondary School, Kakkodi, Kozhikode, Kerala, since December 2022, he continues to inspire young minds with his deep scientific insight and enthusiasm for discovery. His career reflects a harmonious blend of scientific innovation, academic excellence, and educational commitment, establishing him as a promising researcher and educator in the field of condensed matter and material physics.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Kottummal, T. K., Pilathottathil, S., Thayyil, M. S., Perumal, P. M., Sreekala, K. K. N., & Nighil Nath, M. P. (2018). Dielectric relaxation and electrochemical studies on trihexyl tetradecyl phosphonium chloride ionic liquid. Journal of Molecular Liquids, 252, 488–494.

Nighil Nath, M. P., & Sulaiman, M. K., & Thayyil, M. S. (2019). Thermal and dielectric spectroscopic investigation on orientationally disordered crystal—Cyclobutanol. Materials Today: Proceedings, 18, 1620–1626.

Manal Poovingal, N. N., Thayyil, M. S., Afzal, A., & Govindaraj, G. (2022). Thermal and dielectric studies on orientationally disordered crystal: Cyclobutanol. Indian Journal of Physics, 96(7), 1991–1999.

Afzal, A., Thayyil, M. S., Mohamed, M. N. S., Nighil Nath, M. P., & others. (2025). Broadband dielectric spectroscopic studies of acemetacin, colchicine and bezafibrate during quench cooling, and in supercooled liquid phase by dielectric modulus formalism. Indian Journal of Physics, 1–11.

Nath, M. P. N., Thayyil, M. S., & Afzal, A. (2025). Phase transition dynamics and dielectric relaxations in orientationally disordered crystal: A study of cyclohexene oxide. Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, 207, 112839.

Nath, M. P. N., Thayyil, M. S., & Afzal, A. (2025). Thermal and dielectric spectroscopic investigations on tetrahedrally coordinated organic plastic crystals: Aminomethylpropanediol and pentaglycerol. Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, 113019.

Hengfu Shui | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award | 13551

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Prof Dr. Hengfu Shui | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Hengfu Shui, Anhui University of Technology, China

Prof. Dr. Hengfu Shui is a renowned expert in coal chemistry and organic chemical engineering at Anhui University of Technology, China. With a Ph.D. from East China University of Science & Technology, his research spans coal liquefaction, clean utilization, and coal-derived materials. Over his distinguished career, he has served in multiple leadership roles, including Dean of the School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering and Vice President of the university. Dr. Shui has led and participated in numerous national and international research projects, including NSFC key grants, the 863 and 973 Programs, and Sino-Japanese collaborations. His pioneering work contributes significantly to energy science and chemical engineering.

Author Profile

Scopus

Education

Prof. Dr. Hengfu Shui’s academic journey began with a deep-rooted passion for energy and chemical engineering. In 1983, he entered the East China University of Science & Technology, majoring in Chemical Engineering for Energy Sources. During his undergraduate studies, he explored complex chemical processes, including molecular sieve adsorption and abruption, laying a strong foundation for his future research endeavors. After graduating in 1987, he pursued graduate education at the Anshan Research Institute for Thermal Energy (1990–1992), where he specialized in organic chemical engineering and focused on coal needle coke feedstock preprocessing techniques.

Determined to advance in research, he returned to his alma mater for his doctoral studies (1995–1997), where he developed expertise in solvent deasphalting of residues using mixed C4 solvents and in the modification of paving asphalt — a niche area crucial for the improvement of heavy oil processing and asphalt technology.

Experience

Dr. Hengfu Shui’s academic journey at Anhui University of Technology (AHUT) is a testament to his dedication and leadership in higher education. Beginning his career as a lecturer in 1987, he was promoted to associate professor in 1998 and achieved the rank of full professor by 2002. His administrative acumen and academic vision led him to occupy several key leadership positions within the university, including serving as Dean of the School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering from 2003 to 2012, Director of the Department of Scientific Research from 2012 to 2017, Dean of the Graduate School from 2017 to 2019, and since 2019, Vice President of AHUT. Complementing his domestic achievements, Dr. Shui also broadened his academic horizons internationally through a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship at Tohoku University in Japan from 2000 to 2002. There, under the mentorship of Professor Iino Masashi, he conducted advanced research on coal structure and its aggregation behavior—critical to improving coal reactivity and conversion efficiency—thereby enhancing both his scientific perspective and international research collaborations.

Research Focus

Prof. Hengfu Shui’s research portfolio is both expansive and deeply impactful, particularly in the field of coal chemistry and clean energy transformation—an area of critical importance within China’s evolving energy and environmental framework. His primary research interests encompass coal liquefaction and clean utilization, coal tar pitch emulsification, coal needle coke production, and the study of coal structure and its aggregation behaviors. These focus areas not only address pressing scientific challenges but also offer practical pathways for optimizing fossil fuel use and minimizing environmental impact. Prof. Shui has led five major research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), including a key project, and has played a pivotal role in several high-profile national programs such as the 863 High-Tech Program, the 973 National Basic Research Program, and the Strategic Chinese-Japanese Joint Research Program. Additionally, he has contributed to an international cooperative project under Anhui Province. Through these efforts, Prof. Shui has been instrumental in advancing technologies for converting coal into cleaner fuels and high-value chemical products, thus promoting sustainable industrial practices and energy innovation.

His selection as a research fellow at Tohoku University and continued service as vice president of AHUT reflect the high regard in which he is held, both nationally and internationally.

Publications

📘 Enhancing the activity and sulfur tolerance of LaMnO3-based perovskite catalysts for VOCs total oxidation by tuning configurational entropy – Separation and Purification Technology (2025) – Cited by 3 articles.
📘 Temperature regulating the directional catalytic transfer hydrogenolysis of lignin over a in situ topologically prepared NiRu/Al2O3 – Chemical Engineering Science (2025) – Cited by 2 articles.
📘 Relationship between pyrolytic sulfur migration behavior and structural composition of high-sulfur fat coal – Fuel (2025) – Cited by 3 articles
📘 Emerging Photothermal Materials from Lignin and Coal for Solar Vapor Generation – Advanced Functional Materials (2025) – Cited by 3 articles