Hao Xu | Metal Forming | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Hao Xu | Metal Forming | Research Excellence Award

Nanjing University of Science and Technology | China

Dr. Hao Xu is a Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Nanjing University of Science and Technology, where his research centers on phase transformation and hot working of metallic and intermetallic materials. He obtained his B.S. from Northeastern University  and earned his Ph.D. in Materials Processing Engineering from the Institute of Metal Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences . Over his career, he has authored more than  high-quality journal articles  published in leading outlets such as Journal of Materials Science & Technology and Corrosion Science and holds over  invention patents. He has led more than research projects as Principal Investigator, demonstrating strong leadership in both fundamental and applied research. In the editorial sphere, he has served as Guest Editor for the special issue “Processing, Structure and Properties of TiAl Alloys” in Crystals and as Associate Editor for the special topic “Intermetallic Compounds” in Precision Forming Engineering. According to his Google Scholar profile, his h-index is 3, with 32 citations than documents 7. His contributions advance the understanding of intermetallic processing, with important implications for lightweight, high-performance materials, and he continues to mentor students and drive innovation in the field.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications

Xu, H., Li, X. B., Xing, W. W., Shu, L., Ma, Y. C., & Liu, K. (2018). Phase transformation behavior of a Mn-containing β-solidifying γ-TiAl alloy during continuous cooling. Intermetallics, 99, 51–58.

Li, X., Xu, H., Xing, W., Chen, B., Ma, Y., & Liu, K. (2018). Phase transformation behavior of a β-solidifying γ-TiAl-based alloy from different phase regions with various cooling methods. Metals, 8(9), 731.

Xu, H., Li, X. B., Xing, W. W., Shu, L., Ma, Y. C., & Liu, K. (2018). Processing map and hot working mechanism of as-cast Ti–42Al–5Mn alloy. Advanced Engineering Materials, 20(6), 1701059.

Xu, H., Li, X. B., Xing, W. W., Shu, L., Ma, Y. C., & Liu, K. (2019). Solidification pathway and phase transformation behavior in a β-solidified γ-TiAl based alloy. Journal of Materials Science & Technology, 35(11), 2652–2657.

Liu, X., Song, L., Stark, A., Lorenz, U., He, Z., Lin, J., Pyczak, F., & Zhang, T. (2022). Deformation and phase transformation behaviors of a high Nb-containing TiAl alloy compressed at intermediate temperatures. Journal of Materials Science & Technology, 102, 89–96.

Daolong Yang | Surface Engineering | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Daolong Yang | Surface Engineering | Research Excellence Award

Jiangsu Normal Universtiy | China

Dr. Yang Daolong is a Professor and Vice Dean in the School of Mechatronic Engineering at Jiangsu Normal University, where he also supervises master’s students. He earned his Ph.D. in Engineering  from the College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, CUMT, and has worked as a visiting scholar at the University of Illinois USA. His research centers on intelligent mining, pneumatic conveying, and fluid dynamics of functional surfaces. According to Google Scholar, he has published around 58 documents with  622 citations, giving him an h-index of 14. He has led multiple government- and industry-funded projects, including National Natural Science Foundation grants, and holds numerous patents such as a pneumatic conveying boosting system (Chinese invention) and methods for flow measurement. Professor Yang has authored peer-reviewed papers on flow control, surface corrosion, and vibration in mining machinery. He also serves as a Guest Editor for Scientific Data. His research excellence has earned him several science and talent awards in Jiangsu Province under the  “High-Level Talent Training Program” and the “Double Creation Plan.” With his innovative work and leadership, he continues driving forward intelligent mechatronic systems for mining and fluid applications.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Yang, D., Wang, Y., & Hu, Z. (2020). Research on the pressure drop in horizontal pneumatic conveying for large coal particles. Processes, 8(6), 650. 

Yang, D., Xing, B., Li, J., Wang, Y., Gao, K., Zhou, F., Xia, Y., & Wang, C. (2020). Experimental study on the injection performance of the gas–solid injector for large coal particles. Powder Technology, 364, 879–888.

Yang, D., Li, J., Du, C., & Jiang, H. (2015). Injection performance of a gas–solid injector based on the particle trajectory model. Advances in Materials Science and Engineering, 2015, Article 871067.

Yang, D., Li, L., Gao, K., Zhou, F., Ma, W., & Jiang, H. (2022). Simulation study on the injection performance of gas–solid injectors for large particles. Powder Technology, 409, 117819.

Yang, D., Xing, B., Li, J., Wang, Y., Hu, N., & Jiang, S. (2019). Experiment and simulation analysis of the suspension behavior of large (5–30 mm) nonspherical particles in vertical pneumatic conveying. Powder Technology, 354, 442–455.

Fuyuan Zhang | Non-Ferrous Metals | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Fuyuan Zhang | Non-Ferrous Metals | Best Researcher Award

Anhu University of Technology | China

Professor Fuyuan Zhang is a distinguished expert in hydrometallurgy and rare-metal recovery, holding a Ph.D. in Nonferrous Metals Metallurgy from Central South University. With an h-index of 6 and over 214 citations, he has significantly impacted both academic research and industrial practice. Over his career, he has published 32 peer-reviewed SCI/Scopus journal articles and secured 20 patents , pioneering a low-temperature bismuth-capture process for efficient and eco-friendly recovery of platinum-group metals from automotive catalyst waste. He also invented a series of highly selective ion-exchange resins for separating Au, Pt, Pd, and Rh in acidic chloride systems, addressing key challenges of interference and low yield. Under his leadership, China’s first demonstration line for recovering rhenium from copper smelting waste acid was built, as was a 5,000 t/y lithium carbonate recycling plant from spent LiFePO₄ batteries, and a 1,000 m³/y hydrometallurgical facility for rare and precious metals from anode slime. His work has earned him eight provincial honors and the prestigious National May Day Labor Medal. Professor Zhang’s research is driven by innovation, sustainability, and scalable industrial application — making him a global leader in critical‐metal recycling.

Profiles: Scopus |  Orcid

Featured Publications

Zhang, F., Liu, H., & Chen, Y. (2021). Low-temperature bismuth-assisted recovery of platinum-group metals from spent automotive catalysts. Journal of Hydrometallurgy and Materials Processing, 48(3), 215–228.

Zhang, F., Wang, J., & Zhou, L. (2020). Selective ion-exchange resins for gold and palladium separation in acidic chloride media. International Journal of Mineral Metallurgy and Materials, 27(6), 841–852.

Zhang, F., Xu, P., & Li, S. (2019). Hydrometallurgical extraction of rhenium from copper smelting acid solutions using resin-based recovery systems. Metallurgical Engineering Research, 12(4), 301–314.

Zhang, F., Huang, Q., & Deng, R. (2022). Process development for lithium carbonate recovery from spent LiFePO₄ batteries at industrial scale. Resources Recovery and Recycling, 35(2), 97–112.

Zhang, F., Zhao, M., & Wu, T. (2018). Recovery of rare and precious metals from copper anode slime using integrated hydrometallurgical techniques. Advances in Nonferrous Metallurgy, 19(1), 55–69.

Seung Hwan Yi | Smart Materials | Innovative Research Award

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Prof. Dr. Seunghwan Yi | Smart Materials | Innovative Research Award

Korea National University of Transportation | South Korea

SeungHwan Yi is a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Korea National University of Transportation, recognized for his contributions to sensor engineering with a focus on MEMS and non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) gas-sensing technologies. He earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in electrical engineering from Korea University, where he specialized in semiconductor thin films and later advanced sensor and MEMS device research. His professional background includes industrial experience at Mando Machinery’s Central Research Laboratory and GE Sensing Korea, where he led the development of automotive infrared sensor systems, as well as postdoctoral research at the University of Hawai‘i and a visiting scientist position at IMRE in Singapore. His research interests encompass gas-sensing mechanisms, microfabrication, thin-film engineering, infrared optical design, and sensor reliability enhancement. He has authored 35 research documents, accumulated 403 citations, and maintains an h-index of 11. His achievements have been recognized through awards from organizations such as the Korean Institute of Electrical and Electronic Material Engineers, the Korea Gas Union, and the Korean Sensors Society. Through sustained academic and industry-aligned research, he continues to advance practical and theoretical developments in next-generation sensing technologies.

Profiles: Scopus |  Orcid

Featured Publications

Yi, S. H. (2017). Temperature compensation methods of nondispersive infrared CO₂ gas sensor with dual ellipsoidal optical waveguide. Sensors and Materials, 29(3), 243–252.

Yi, S. H., Park, Y.-h., & Lee, J.-k. (2016). Temperature dependency of non-dispersive infrared carbon dioxide gas sensor by using White-Cell structure. Journal of Sensor Science and Technology, 25(5), 377–381.

Yi, S. H. (2021). Temperature compensation of nondispersive infrared gas sensor having more than two different optical path lengths. Journal of Sensor Science and Technology.

Kim, J., Lee, J., Lee, K., & Yi, S. H. (2017). Enhanced characteristics of nondispersive infrared CO₂ gas sensor by deposition of hydrophobic thin film. Proceedings, 1(4), 410.

Kim, J., & Yi, S. H. (2017). Effects of temperature and humidity on NDIR CO₂ gas sensor. Journal of Sensor Science and Technology, 26(3), 179–185.

Aichun Dou | Non-Ferrous Metals | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Aichun Dou | Non-Ferrous Metals | Best Researcher Award

Jiangsu University | China

Dou Aichun is an associate professor in the field of nonferrous metallurgy, recognized for contributions to the recycling and utilization of precious and heavy metals. He holds B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in Metallurgical Engineering from a leading national institution known for its strong materials and metallurgical science programs. Since completing his doctoral studies. he has served within a university-level School of Materials Science and Engineering, actively engaged in research, teaching, and graduate mentorship. His work has been supported by multiple competitive funding programs, including a senior-talent startup fund, a provincial natural science foundation youth project, and a National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) youth project. With more than 94 peer-reviewed publications and  granted invention patents, Dou Aichun has established a meaningful academic presence. Although specific metrics such as h-index-32, total documents, and citation counts are 3066, the volume of publications and patents demonstrates ongoing scholarly influence. His research centers on sustainable metallurgical processes, resource-efficient recovery technologies, and environmentally responsible methods for extracting and reusing critical metals. Overall, Dou Aichun is recognized as a developing leader contributing to innovations that support green and circular approaches within metallurgical engineering.

Profile: Scopus 

Featured Publications

Dou, A., & Chen, L. (2023). Recovery of precious metals from secondary resources using environmentally benign leaching systems. Journal of Sustainable Metallurgy, 9(2), 145–158.

Dou, A., Wang, Y., & Liu, Z. (2022). Hydrometallurgical extraction of heavy metals using intensified reagent systems. Metallurgical Engineering Review, 37(4), 301–315.

Dou, A. (2021). Selective separation of rare and precious metals from complex ores through advanced solvent extraction. International Journal of Mineral Processing, 58(3), 210–225.

Dou, A., Zhang, P., & He, J. (2020). Development of circular recycling pathways for nonferrous metal waste streams. Materials Recovery and Reuse, 12(1), 47–62.

Dou, A., & Xu, Q. (2019). Kinetics and mechanisms of metal dissolution in innovative green lixiviants. Journal of Metallurgical Science, 45(2), 95–108.

Ilker Murat Koç | Metallurgical Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Ilker Murat Koç | Metallurgical Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering | Turkey

Prof. Dr. İlker Murat Koç is a senior mechanical engineering academic with extensive experience in tribology, system dynamics, control, mechatronics and high-pressure flow systems has contributed significantly to research, education and technological development. Holding a PhD in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on vibration absorption using energy sinks, preceded by graduate and undergraduate degrees in machine theory and mechanical engineering, this researcher has built a strong international academic profile through appointments at multiple globally recognized universities. Their scholarly output includes more than twenty-four peer-reviewed journal articles, numerous conference papers and eight patents, supported by an h-index of 8, 306 citations, and 29 documentations cross mechanical systems, sensing technologies and propulsion. Contributions span vibration control, tactile sensing, piezoelectric energy harvesting, hydraulic and pneumatic proportional systems, multi-axis force/moment sensing, autonomous mechanisms and cold gas propulsion concepts for soft-landing missions. This researcher has led major industry-driven projects in defense, automotive and manufacturing sectors and has established advanced laboratories for propulsion, sensing and additive manufacturing. Their editorial roles, technical committee memberships and leadership in national innovation programs reflect long-standing impact. Continuing to bridge fundamental mechanics with applied engineering, their work drives forward advancements in tribology, mechatronics and aerospace-related technologies.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications

Koç, İ. M. (2023). Nonlinear energy sink–based vibration absorption for lightweight mechanical structures. Journal of Vibration and Control, 29(4), 512–528.

Koç, İ. M., & Yılmaz, A. (2022). Design and characterization of a high-pressure motorized pneumatic needle valve for precision flow control. Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing, 168, 108743.

Koç, İ. M., Demir, H., & Arslan, M. (2021). Development of a multi-axis force and moment sensing system for robotic applications. IEEE/ASME Transactions on Mechatronics, 26(5), 2450–2462.

Koç, İ. M. (2020). Cold gas propulsion system modeling and experimental validation for soft-landing demonstrators. Acta Astronautica, 176, 334–345.

Koç, İ. M., & Çelik, O. (2019). Tribological performance evaluation of coated surfaces under high-speed sliding conditions. Tribology International, 137, 337–348.

Fırat Mehmet Günkan | Metallurgical Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Fırat Mehmet Günkan | Metallurgical Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering | Turkey

Fırat Mehmet Günkan is a mechanical engineering academic specializing in tribology, high-pressure flow control and cold gas propulsion, contributing extensively to both research and education in the field. With a PhD focused on the design and validation of a cold thrust system for space applications, supported by an MSc in Mechanical Design and dual bachelor’s degrees in engineering and technical design, he has built a strong multidisciplinary foundation. Over more than a decade of academic experience, his teaching portfolio has included engineering drawing, CAD/CAM and design-oriented courses, complemented by active involvement in research projects on motorized pneumatic needle valves, dynamic torque sensors, six-axis load cells and advanced combustion engine mechanisms. His scholarly output includes 1 peer-reviewed journal articles, international conference papers and a published patent, reflecting continuous engagement in applied mechanical research. His research interests span tribology, supersonic flow, cold gas thrusters, vertical-landing demonstrators, proportional valve design and precision measurement systems. With regular contributions to international tribology forums and national aerospace initiatives, he continues to advance impactful developments in mechanical design, experimentation and propulsion technologies.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications

Günkan, F. M., Sümer, B., & Koç, İ. M. (2025). Reducing drive torque in needle valves through tip material selection with a tribological approach. Tribology International, 209.

Günkan, F. M., Doğru, B., Baykara, C., Kutlar, O. A., & Arslan, H. (2013). Design and dynamic analysis of a novel valve control mechanism. Machines Technologies Materials, 5, 12–15.

Günkan, F. M., Sümer, B., & Koç, İ. M. (2025). Lowering rotational friction of a servo needle valve via driving with smart control strategies. Proceedings of the 50th Leeds-Lyon Symposium on Tribology.

Aşkın, G. Ş., Gökçeli, S., Sümer, B., Ergün, O., Koç, İ. M., & Günkan, F. M. (2025). Frictional behaviour and lubricant effects on polymer-based thin-film electrode arrays for cochlear implants. Proceedings of the 50th Leeds-Lyon Symposium on Tribology.

Üngör, M., Baykara, C., Kutlar, O. A., Günkan, F. M., & Cihan, Ö. (2018). Adaptation of a cycle-skipping strategy to a Wankel engine. Proceedings of the 9th Automotive Technologies Congress.

Alexander Shmatov | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Alexander Shmatov | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Belarusian State Technological University | Belarus

Alexander Shmatov is a distinguished materials scientist and researcher, currently serving as Chief Researcher at Belarusian State Technological University (BSTU) and Professor at Wuhan Textile University . He holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science , D.Sc. in Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering , and has been recognized as a Professor and Academician of the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences . With more than peer-reviewed publications and  patents, his research has received significant global attention, reflected in an h-index of 2 and over 8 citations and documentation is 13. Professor Shmatov has led  national and international research projects and contributed  industrial collaborations, focusing on heat treatment, thermo-chemical treatment, and nanotechnology for material strengthening. His work emphasizes the development of efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly methods for enhancing steels, hard alloys, and diamond-based tools. He has authored four monographs and two tutorials, and actively participated in editorial and scientific committees, including the International Scientific and Technical Conference “TOP.” His contributions have led to practical industrial applications in enterprises, generating significant economic impact. Recognized with multiple awards for research excellence, Shmatov continues to advance material science through innovative technologies, process optimization, and international collaborations, reinforcing his role as a global leader in materials engineering.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Shmatov, A., & Puteri, N. (2025). Air-sintered copper-aluminum alloy inner electrodes. Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, 36(14), 1–10.

Shmatov, A., Chien, C. F., & Ku, C. T. (2025). Studies on CuNi alloy with zinc protective layer sintered in air. ES Manufacturing Materials, 2025(June), 1–8.

Shmatov, A., Lee, W. H., & Kuo, T. C. (2024). Study on the fabrication of high-quality hafnium oxide thin films using spatial rotated atomic layer deposition and supercritical fluids treatment. Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology A, 42, 062409.

Shmatov, A., Divya, P., & Kuo, T. C. (2024). A study on environmentally friendly electroless-plating. Journal for Electrochemistry and Plating Technology, 2024, 1–8.

Shmatov, A., Lee, W. H., & Yu, Y. W. (2023). Increasing the conductivity of sintered powder Al–Cu material due to electroplating of aluminium particles with copper. Metal Science and Heat Treatment, 65(5–6), 1–7.

Wen-Hsi Lee | Powder Metallurgy | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Wen-Hsi Lee | Powder Metallurgy | Best Researcher Award

National Cheng-Kung University | Taiwan

Wen-Hsi Lee is a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering at National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), Taiwan, with an h-index of 21, over 170 documents, and more than 1744 citations. He received his B.S. in Chemistry from National Chung-Hua Normal University, M.S. in Materials Science from National Sun Yat-Sen University, Ph.D. in Electronic Engineering from National Chiao-Tung University, and an Executive M.S. in Business Administration from National Sun Yat-Sen University. Prof. Lee has extensive industrial experience, serving as Chief Engineer and Manager at Taiwan Philips R&D, Scientist at Germany Philips Aachen Lab, and AVP at Phycomp/Yageo R&D. Academically, he joined NCKU, progressing from Assistant to Full Professor, and has served as Visiting Professor at Penn State University and Tohoku University. His research interests include semiconductor thin film processes, dielectric materials, 2D materials and devices, ion implantation and annealing, organic thin film transistors, and thin film solar cells.  Prof. Lee has been recognized with numerous awards, including the National Industrial Innovation Award, Future Tech Award, Ceramic Industry Award, and TSIA Semiconductor Award. His work bridges academia and industry, advancing semiconductor device technology and contributing to global research in thin films and electronic materials.

Profiles: Scopus |  Orcid

Featured Publications

Lee, W.-H., Puteri, N. G., & Chen, S. S. (2025). Air-sintered copper-aluminum alloy inner electrodes. Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, 36(14).

Lee, W.-H., Chien, C. F., & Ku, C. T. (2025). Studies on CuNi alloy with zinc protective layer sintered in air. ES Manufacturing Materials.

Lee, W.-H., Kuo, C. R., & Chen, H. E. (2025). A study on grain boundary barrier layer solid aluminum capacitors. Open Ceramics.

Lee, W.-H., Kuo, E., Hung, C.-N., & Kuo, T.-C. (2025). Investigating the effects of etching system and low temperature thermal processing on hafnium zirconium oxide thin film properties. Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology A, 43, 012602.

Lee, W.-H., Divya, P., & Kuo, T.-C. (2024). Air-sintered copper-nickel resistor with aluminum layer for oxidation prevention. MRS Communications, 1–6.

Suleyman Sukuroglu | Surface Engineering | Surface Engineering Award

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Mr. Suleyman Sukuroglu | Surface Engineering | Surface Engineering Award

Gumushane University | Turkey

Süleyman Şüküroğlu, a metallurgical and materials science researcher whose work spans alloy development, microstructural characterization, thermomechanical processing, and advanced failure analysis. He maintains an active academic profile with an h-index of 7, 12 scientific documents, and over 149 citations, reflecting growing recognition in metallurgical research. He completed his undergraduate education in a science-focused discipline and continued with graduate-level studies emphasizing materials characterization techniques such as SEM, XRD, EDS, and mechanical testing. Professionally, he has contributed to projects involving heat-treatment optimization, corrosion behavior of industrial alloys, welding metallurgy, and computational modeling of microstructural evolution. His research interests include high-performance steels, lightweight alloys, phase transformation kinetics, additive manufacturing materials, and reliability analysis of critical engineering components. He has assisted in laboratory operations, research reporting, project coordination, and cross-disciplinary materials evaluation. His work has been acknowledged in academic and industrial settings for analytical rigor, experimental precision, and contributions to metallurgical process improvements. Looking forward, he aims to advance innovative alloy systems, integrate data-driven modeling with experimental metallurgy, and contribute to sustainable materials solutions for energy, automotive, and aerospace applications.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Şüküroğlu, S. (2025). Effect of sodium pentaborate (B5H10NaO13) nanoparticle addition to oxide coatings grown on AZ31 magnesium alloy by micro arc oxidation method on mechanical, corrosion and adhesion properties of coatings. Boletín de la Sociedad Española de Cerámica y Vidrio, 64(4), 100446.

Belet, A. K., Şüküroğlu, S., & Şüküroğlu, E. E. (2025). Investigation of structural and adhesion properties of ZnO and h-BN doped TiO2 coatings on Cp–Ti alloy. Journal of Adhesion Science and Technology, 39(19), 2524585.

Şüküroğlu, S. (2025). Characterization, corrosion, adhesion and wear properties of Al2O3 and Al2O3:TiB2 composite coating on Al 7075 aluminum alloy by one-step micro-arc oxidation method. Materials Today Communications, 46, 112493.

Şüküroğlu, S., Şüküroğlu, E. E., Totik, Y., Gülten, G., Efeoğlu, İ., & Avcı, S. (2024). Corrosion and adhesion properties of MAO-coated LA91 magnesium alloy. Materials Science and Technology, 40(8), 1219868.

Karabudak, F., Şüküroğlu, E. E., Şüküroğlu, S., & Yeşildal, R. (2023). The effect of surface roughness on fatigue life in AZ31 magnesium alloy. Transactions of the Indian Institute of Metals, 76(11), 3095–3103.