Sello Peter Tsebe | Pyrometallurgy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sello Peter Tsebe | Pyrometallurgy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sello Peter Tsebe, Mintek, South Africa

Mr. Sello Peter Tsebe is a registered Professional Engineer (ECSA) and currently serves as Head of Technology Demonstration in the Pyrometallurgy Division at Mintek, South Africa. With over 17 years of experience in metallurgical research and project leadership, Mr. Tsebe is a pioneering figure in the development and commercialisation of advanced pyrometallurgical technologies. He has led multidisciplinary teams, managed large CAPEX projects, and contributed to international collaborations such as the EU HORIZON programs. He is also the inventor of patented technologies including eWasteSmelt™ and ImpMan™. Mr. Tsebe is known for his critical thinking, innovation, and dedication to sustainable mineral processing. He has authored over 45 technical reports and 10 technical papers and continues to drive Mintek’s strategic RDI goals while mentoring the next generation of engineers.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Mr. Tsebe began his academic journey with a Senior Matric Certificate from Gojela High School in 2002 and was a Grade 12 Merit Certificate holder for the highest academic achievement. He completed an Academic Enrichment Programme at EduMap College in 2003. In 2009, he obtained his B.Sc.Eng in Materials and Metallurgy from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), where he was twice listed on the Dean’s List of Excellence. He further pursued a Programme in Project Management (PPM) at the University of Pretoria in 2017. Most recently, he completed his M.Sc.Eng in Extractive Metallurgy at Wits University in 2023. His academic path demonstrates a solid foundation in metallurgical engineering, project leadership, and research excellence, enabling him to develop innovative and impactful metallurgical solutions across research and industry sectors.

🏢 Experience

With over 17 years in metallurgical R&D, Mr. Tsebe has built an impressive career at Mintek, progressing from Engineer to Head of Technology Demonstration in Pyrometallurgy. He began in Pyrometallurgy (2008–2010), then moved to Hydrometallurgy (2013–2014), and gained industrial experience at Rand Refinery (2011–2012). He rejoined Mintek, rising through Senior Engineer, Principal Engineer, Chief Engineer, and finally Head (2022–present). Throughout, he has led large-scale pilot projects, managed RDI strategy, secured project funding, and mentored engineers. His contributions include successful patent filings, technology transfer, and management of multimillion-rand projects. He is recognised for his leadership in client engagement, CAPEX planning, and sustainable metallurgical innovation.

🏅 Awards & Honors

Mr. Tsebe has received both academic and professional accolades. In academia, he was featured on the Wits University Dean’s List of Excellence in 2004 and 2005 and received the Global Material Solution Prize (2004). Earlier in his academic life, he won the Mogalakwena District Maths Olympiad and a Grade 12 Merit Certificate (2002). Professionally, he was awarded the 2015 Mintek Excellence Award for developing a world-class high-pressure leach pilot plant. He has also received multiple research funding awards for projects like eWasteSmelt, ImpMan, and SmelterEnergy, totaling millions in investment. His innovative contributions to pyrometallurgy and leadership in research execution have earned him recognition both locally and internationally.

🔬 Research Focus

Mr. Tsebe’s research focuses on pyrometallurgical process development, high-temperature metallurgical simulations, and sustainable resource recovery from waste streams. His innovations include patented technologies like eWasteSmelt™ and ImpMan™, which tackle e-waste recycling and process improvement. He has led EU HORIZON collaborations (PREMA, SisAl Pilot, HAlMan) and published extensively on furnace operations, smelter efficiency, hydrogen reduction of manganese ores, and battery materials. His work bridges lab-scale experimentation and full pilot-scale demonstration, often involving computational modeling and simulation tools such as COMSOL and FactSage. He is also engaged in capacity building, training, and mentoring of junior engineers, aligning his work with broader goals of circular economy and green metallurgy.

Publication Top Notes

📊 Variables Applicable to Benchmarking of Tap-Hole Life-Cycle Management Practices in Coke-Bed-Based Ferroalloy Production3 citations, 2018
⚙️ Effect of Ore Pre-heating on Furnace Operation in High Carbon Ferromanganese Production—Lessons Learnt from Pilot-Scale Test Work1 citation, 2023
🧪 Evaluation of the Effects of Fluidization Conditions on Hydrogen Reduction in Manganese Ore Fines0 citations, 2025
🔥 Numerical model of aluminothermic reduction vessel preheating and charge heating with graphite heating rods0 citations, 2024
🔥 Numerical model of a top-blown rotary converter preheating and charge heating with an oxy-fuel burner0 citations, 2024
♻️ Development of an Integrated Process Flowsheet to Recover Valuable Metals from Waste Cathode Ray Tubes and Printed Circuit Boards0 citations, 2024
🔋 Battery materials research conducted at Mintek towards energy storage and resource efficiency0 citations, 2022
🧱 Overcoming the phosphorus issue at the Agbaja iron ore project in Nigeria0 citations, 2019
🖥️ Towards computational models of metallurgical converting processes0 citations, 2018
🔥 Ladle Furnace Preheating and Charge Heating with Graphite Heating Rods0 citations, year not listed
🔥 Top-Blown Rotary Converter Preheating and Charge Heating with an Oxy-Fuel Burner0 citations, year not listed

Wang chengmin | Materials Science | Young Scientist Award

Dr. wang chengmin | Materials Science | Young Scientist Award

Dr. wang chengmin, Dalian jiaotong university, China

📚 Dr. Wang Chengmin, born in 1983, is a senior engineer and PhD candidate jointly trained by Tsinghua University and Dalian Jiaotong University. With 15 years of expertise in materials science, he specializes in ultra-pure alumina and ultrafine oxides. His innovative contributions in industrializing high-purity alumina using the alcohol aluminum method have advanced China’s materials industry. Dr. Wang has published over ten papers and holds eleven patents. His extensive research in sol-gel technology and catalysis underscores his impact in both academia and industry.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

🎓 Dr. Wang Chengmin graduated from East China University of Science and Technology in 2006 with a degree in Polymer Materials and Engineering. In 2009, he earned a Master’s degree in Materials Science from Dalian Jiaotong University. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in Materials Science and Engineering through a joint program at Tsinghua University and Dalian Jiaotong University. His interdisciplinary academic background has equipped him with comprehensive knowledge and expertise in advanced materials research and development.

Experience

🛠️ Dr. Wang Chengmin has accumulated nearly 15 years of experience in research, industrialization, and technology transfer. He led the development of China’s first production line for high-purity alumina using the alcohol aluminum method. His work extends to aluminum-based porous catalysis, ceramics, aerogels, and colloidal materials. With deep expertise in sol-gel technology, Dr. Wang has significantly contributed to the commercialization of innovative materials and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Awards and Honors

🏆 Dr. Wang Chengmin’s impactful research and industrial achievements have earned him recognition in the field of materials science. With 11 authorized invention patents and over 10 research publications, he has established himself as a leader in ultra-pure alumina technology. His contributions to industrialization and technology transfer have been acknowledged through prestigious awards, reflecting his dedication to innovation and excellence in the field.

Research Focus

🔬 Dr. Wang Chengmin’s research focuses on ultra-pure alumina, ultrafine oxides, and sol-gel technology. He specializes in the industrial applications of aluminum-based porous catalysis, ceramics, aerogels, and colloidal materials. His pioneering work in the alcohol aluminum method has propelled advancements in high-purity alumina production. Through continuous exploration in materials science and engineering, Dr. Wang remains committed to developing innovative solutions for industrial challenges.

 

Publication Top Notes

Preparation of Large-Sized Flaky Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> for Thermally Conductive Fillers and Its Formation Mechanisms

 

Saritha | Material science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. D. Saritha | Material science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Chaitanya Bharathi Institute of Technology , India

Dr. D. Saritha is an Associate Professor at Chaitanya Bharathi Institute of Technology (CBIT), Hyderabad. With a Ph.D. in Chemistry from IIT Madras, she specializes in material science, nanomaterials, electrochemistry, and Li-ion batteries. She has over 17 years of research experience and 11.7 years in teaching. She has published 23 international journal articles and presented at 27 international conferences. As a committed academician, she holds multiple institutional responsibilities, including RD Coordinator and Departmental Research Committee Convenor. Dr. Saritha has received numerous accolades, including the Best Teacher Award for R&D at CBIT. Her research focuses on advanced materials for energy storage, 3D printing, and electrochemical applications.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education 📚🎓

Dr. D. Saritha holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from IIT Madras, where she worked on advanced material science and energy storage applications. She completed her M.Sc. in Chemistry with First Class and earned a B.Sc. (MPC) with Distinction. Her strong academic foundation enabled her to excel in the National Entrance Test (GATE) 2006, securing admission to IIT Madras for her doctoral studies. Throughout her academic journey, she demonstrated a keen interest in electrochemistry and nanomaterials, laying the groundwork for her research in Li-ion batteries. Her education has provided her with extensive knowledge in material science, enabling her to contribute significantly to scientific advancements.

Experience 🏫🔬

Dr. Saritha has 11.7 years of teaching and 17.7 years of research experience. She began her career as an Assistant Professor at KL University, Hyderabad, where she held multiple roles, including Institution-Industry Cell member and Women Protection Committee member. She joined CBIT as an Assistant Professor in 2019 and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2022. At CBIT, she serves as the RD Coordinator, Departmental Research Committee Convenor, and Engineering Chemistry Lab Coordinator. She mentors first-year students and contributes to curriculum development. With her expertise in nanomaterials and energy storage, she actively collaborates with researchers, guiding students in cutting-edge projects.

Awards and Honors 🏆🎖️

Dr. Saritha has received several prestigious awards, including the Best Teacher Award for R&D at CBIT in 2022. She was honored with the Best Researcher Award by Science Father (NESIN 2021). She has won multiple Best Paper Awards at ICAM5 (NIT Warangal), CBIT Research Day 2019, and ICNAN 2016 (VIT University). She served as the Open House Coordinator at Shaastra-2009, showcasing IIT Madras’ research. She also excelled in GATE 2006 with a score of 374. These recognitions highlight her outstanding contributions to academia and research in material science and electrochemistry.

Research Focus 🔬⚡

Dr. Saritha’s research focuses on material science, energy storage, Li-ion batteries, electrochemistry, nanomaterials, and 3D printing. She explores innovative electrode materials for high-performance batteries and investigates electrochemical properties for sustainable energy solutions. Her work in nanomaterials aims to develop advanced functional materials for enhanced conductivity and stability. She actively contributes to interdisciplinary research, integrating 3D printing technology for material synthesis. Her studies have been published in top-tier journals, reflecting her expertise in energy storage and electrochemical applications. Her research aims to revolutionize battery technology, making energy storage more efficient and environmentally friendly. 🚀

Publication Top Notes

📄 Electrochemical Li insertion studies on WNb12O33—A shear ReO3 type structure – 71 citations (2010) 🔋🔬
📄 Studies on electrochemical lithium insertion in isostructural titanium niobate and tantalate phases with shear ReO3 structure – 45 citations (2013) 🔋⚛️
📄 3D printed Lattice Structures: A Brief Review – 27 citations (2020) 🖨️🧩
📄 A concise review on 4D printing technology – 26 citations (2021) ⏳🖨️
📄 Effect of fill pattern and printing speed on friction characteristics of FDM printed polylactic acid polymer – 15 citations (2021) ⚙️📏
📄 Electrochemical analysis of tungsten bronze-type phases, W9Nb8O47 and W7Nb4O31, synthesized by sol-gel method – 14 citations (2018) 🧪🔋
📄 A concise review on the removal of heavy metals from wastewater using adsorbents – 13 citations (2022) 🌊♻️
📄 Pt-and Pd-based intermetallic anode catalysts for direct ethanol fuel cell (DEFC): An overview – 10 citations (2022) ⚡🔬
📄 A concise review on the advancement of anode materials for Li-ion batteries – 10 citations (2019) 🔋🔬
📄 Nanomaterials and nanostructures in additive manufacturing: properties, applications, and technological challenges – 8 citations (2023) 🏭⚙️
📄 Nanomaterials‐Based Additive Manufacturing for Mass Production of Energy Storage Systems: 3D Printed Batteries and Supercapacitors – 8 citations (2023) 🔋🖨️
📄 Synthesis and electrochemical properties of Fe2WO6 – 6 citations (2021) ⚡🧪
📄 Current advancement on anode materials for Na-ion batteries – 4 citations (2022) 🔋🧪
📄 Sol–Gel Synthesis and Electrochemical Studies on Mo3Nb2O14 – 4 citations (2018) 🧪🔬
📄 A concise review on cathode materials for Na-ion batteries – 3 citations (2023) 🔋🧪
📄 Effect of alternate fill pattern on mechanical properties of FDM printed PC-PBT alloy – 3 citations (2022) ⚙️🖨️

 

Zhiguo LUO | Ferrous Metallurgy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zhiguo LUO | Ferrous Metallurgy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zhiguo LUO, School of Metallurgy, Northeastern University, China

Based on Mr. Zhiguo Luo’s qualifications, here is an assessment of his suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award:

Publication profile

Education and Professional Experience

Mr. Zhiguo Luo holds a Ph.D. in Ferrous Metallurgy from Northeastern University, where he focused on simulating the dephosphorization of hot metal using BOF slag. His academic background includes significant research in metallurgical processes, as evidenced by his advanced degrees and his role as an Associate Professor at Northeastern University. His experience extends to international research, including a stint as a Visiting Research Fellow at the University of New South Wales.

Research Interests and Projects

Mr. Luo’s research interests cover transport phenomena, reaction engineering of metallurgy, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) & discrete element method (DEM). His projects are diverse, ranging from simulations of refining processes to the development of instructional equipment for metallurgical processes. Notable projects include simulations for COREX processes and optimization studies for refining ladles.

Publications

  • Zhao, N., Luo, Z., Zou, Z.Advancements in the Understanding of Single-Bubble Dynamics: Integrated Experimental and Simulation Studies. Steel Research International, 2024, 95(8), 2400020. 📄
  • Luo, Z., Lu, J., Zou, Z., Chang, S.Study on inclusion removal in two-strand tundish with gas curtain considering bubble-inclusion attachment. Canadian Metallurgical Quarterly, 2024. 🔬
  • Lu, J., Luo, Z., Zou, Z.Numerical simulation of collision-coalescence and removal of inclusion in split swirling flow tundish. Metallurgical Research and Technology, 2024, 121(4), 403. 🔄
  • Li, H., Chen, J., Luo, Z., Wang, X.Development of Mass–Energy Balance Model Based on a New Process of RSF with Hy-O-CR. Metals, 2024, 14(1), 127. ⚙️
  • Yang, W., He, P., Chang, L., Zhao, N., Liu, Q., Luo, Z.Numerical Analysis of Slag–Steel–Air Four-Phase Flow in Steel Continuous Casting Model Using CFD-DBM-VOF Model. Metals, 2023, 13(12), 1943. 🔍
  • Wang, X., Luo, Z., Zhang, C., Tian, Z., Han, X.Simulation on the Solid Flow in COREX Shaft Furnace with CGD Using DEM. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 2023, 2463(1), 012050. 🏗️
  • Shi, B., Liu, H., Liu, B., Luo, Z., Zou, Z.Influence of Breeches Pipe Structures on Hot Blast Distribution Rule Around the Hearth Circumferentially. Metallurgical and Materials Transactions B: Process Metallurgy and Materials Processing Science, 2022, 53(6), 3613–3623. 🔥
  • Lu, J., Li, S., Luo, Z., Zou, Z., Shao, L.Numerical simulation of collision removal of inclusion in swirling flow tundish. International Journal of Chemical Reactor Engineering, 2022, 20(12), 1275–1282. 🔬
  • Lai, Q., Luo, Z., Zhang, Y., You, Y., Zou, Z.Numerical Simulation of Multiphase Flow in Steel Continuous Casting Mold Using a Novel Euler–Euler–Lagrange Method. Steel Research International, 2022, 93(9), 2200118. ⚙️
  • Shi, B.-H., Liu, B.-N., Luo, Z.-G., Zou, Z.-S.Simulation Study on Flow Characteristics of Hot Blast in Bustle Pipe of Blast Furnace. Dongbei Daxue Xuebao/Journal of Northeastern University, 2022, 43(5), 755–760. 🌬️

Supervision and Mentoring

Mr. Luo has supervised several Ph.D. students, guiding research on various aspects of COREX Melter Gasifier and other related topics. His role as a principal supervisor highlights his commitment to advancing the field through the development of future researchers.

Conclusion

 

Mr. Zhiguo Luo’s extensive research, robust publication record, significant contributions to metallurgical simulation, and dedication to mentoring emerging researchers make him a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His work not only advances fundamental understanding in metallurgical processes but also has practical implications for industrial applications, underscoring his excellence in research and education.