Prof. Haiyan Leng | Hydrogen Storage Materials | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Haiyan Leng | Hydrogen Storage Materials | Best Researcher Award

Shanghai University | China

Prof. Haiyan Leng, a professor and doctoral supervisor at Shanghai University, specializes in lightweight hydrogen storage materials and high-capacity hydrogen storage device design. She has led and participated in multiple national and enterprise-funded projects, published over 70 SCI papers in top journals, and holds more than ten domestic and international patents. Her recent highly cited work in the Journal of Rare Earths investigates the influence of La and Ce rare earth doping on the hydrogen absorption properties of Zr7V5Fe alloy. The study revealed that rare earth doping enhances activation with shorter incubation periods and improves the transition of Zr and V from oxidized to metallic states during heating, leading to better hydrogen absorption performance. X-ray diffraction showed reduced cell volume of ZrV2 and α-Zr phases, raising plateau pressure, while kinetic analysis indicated coarser α-Zr phases and larger particle sizes, slightly reducing hydrogen absorption kinetics. Overall, the research provides valuable technical guidance for optimizing zirconium-based alloys for hydrogen storage applications.

Profile:  Scopus 

Featured Publications

"Influence of rare earth doping on hydrogen absorption properties of Zr7V5Fe alloy"

"Multivalent Ti/Nb catalysts with oxygen vacancies: Bridging electron transfer pathways to enhance MgH2 hydrogen desorption property"

"Effect of La doping on tritium storage properties of Ti-based alloys"

"The relationship between thermal management methods and hydrogen storage performance of the metal hydride tank"

"Performance improvement of magnesium-based hydrogen storage tanks by using carbon nanotubes addition and finned heat exchanger: Numerical simulation and experimental verification"

Vikramsingh Thakur | Experimental Methods | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Vikramsingh Thakur | Experimental Methods | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Vikramsingh Thakur | Indian Institute of Technology Delhi | India

Vikramsingh Thakur is a highly accomplished materials scientist and polymer engineer with expertise in sustainable packaging and nanocomposites. Currently working at ITC Life Science & Technology Centre, Bangalore, he is engaged in developing biodegradable, high-barrier packaging solutions. With a robust academic foundation, including a Ph.D. from IIT Delhi and M.Tech from the same institute, Vikramsingh has also contributed to R&D at Saint-Gobain, Resile Chemicals, and DRDO. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications, co-authored a patent, and represented India at international conferences. His research integrates functionality, sustainability, and real-world impact. Passionate about bridging the gap between innovation and application, he has received notable awards including the Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship and multiple institutional recognitions, making him a standout young scholar in materials science.

Author Profile

Scopus | ORCID

Education

Vikramsingh Thakur completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from IIT Delhi, where his thesis focused on developing multifunctional nanocomposite films with barrier, mechanical, and sensing properties for smart packaging. He also holds an M.Tech in Polymer Science and Technology from IIT Delhi, graduating with distinction. Prior to this, he earned a B.Tech in Plastic and Polymer Engineering from Maharashtra Institute of Technology, Aurangabad and a Diploma in the same field from Government Polytechnic, Amravati. His academic journey has been marked by consistent excellence and a deep engagement with advanced materials, polymer composites, and sustainable engineering, laying a strong foundation for impactful interdisciplinary research.

Professional Experience

Vikramsingh currently serves as a Fellow Trainee Consultant at ITC Life Science & Technology Centre, where he works on biodegradable, high-barrier packaging materials across food, tobacco, and personal care industries. Previously, he worked at Saint-Gobain Abrasives R&D, Bangalore, as a PGET, developing nonwoven abrasive products and winning a “Business Impact Award.” He has also completed research internships at Resile Chemicals, developing silicone-modified resins, and at DRDO Pune, where he worked on electrospun nanofiber-reinforced laminates. His experience spans academia and industry, blending material innovation with product development. With expertise in compounding, extrusion, testing, and sustainability compliance, Vikramsingh brings a versatile skill set to materials research, consistently aligning scientific advancements with industrial applications.

Awards and Honors

Vikramsingh Thakur has received multiple prestigious awards throughout his academic and research career. He is a recipient of the Prime Minister Research Fellowship (PMRF), India’s highest fellowship for doctoral scholars. At IIT Delhi, he was awarded the Research Excellence Travel Award and Best Teaching Assistant Award by the Materials Science Society. Earlier, during his tenure at Saint-Gobain, he won the Business Impact Award for project excellence. He was also honored with the Devidasrao Ashtaputre Memorial Award for academic performance during his B.Tech. Additionally, his early work earned him the Best Poster Award at a national symposium in 2014. These accolades reflect his consistent academic brilliance, research innovation, and impactful contributions to both scientific and industrial domains.

Research Focus

Vikramsingh’s research focuses on the development of multifunctional polymer nanocomposite films for intelligent and sustainable packaging applications. His doctoral work explored barrier (OTR & WVTR), mechanical, antioxidant, and pH-responsive properties in biodegradable packaging. He specializes in processing-structure-property correlations using nanoclays, electrospun fibers, and smart additives such as anthocyanins and ethylene scavengers. His patent on bilayered halochromic freshness markers and his publications in ACS and Wiley journals highlight innovations in food packaging. He also works on thermally conductive and electrically insulating polymer composites for electronics. Vikramsingh integrates principles of materials design, sustainability, and functionality, aiming to bridge academia with industry through real-world solutions in advanced polymers and environmental protection.

Notable Publications

Synergistic Effect of Halloysite and Montmorillonite for Barrier-Resistant and Smart Films as Active Food Packaging for Improved Shelf Life

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani Kumar Satapathy
    Journal: Integrated Ferroelectrics
    Year: 2025

Integration of benzoic acid-loaded nanocellulose fibers on biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) matrix and its application into food preservation

  • Authors: Aiswarya Thattaru Thodikayil, Ashutosh Kumar, Vikramsingh Thakur, Gangalakshmi V, Shaifali Dhingra, Sampa Saha
    Journal: Polymer Engineering & Science
    Year: 2024

Robust Tear-Resistant Blown Nanocomposite Films for Barrier Packaging: Role of Clay Platelet Thickness in Tear Mechanics and Barrier Performances

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani K. Satapathy
    Journal: ACS Applied Polymer Materials
    Year: 2023

Electrospun Nanofibrous Mat-on-Film Bilayered Halochromic Freshness Marker-Enabled Intelligent Food Packaging Film Based on Red Cabbage Anthocyanins

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani K. Satapathy
    Journal: ACS Food Science & Technology
    Year: 2023

Biodegradable Polymers for Food Packaging Applications

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani K. Satapathy, Chandrani Sarkar, Sampa Saha
    Journal: Materials Horizons: From Nature to Nanomaterials (Springer, Singapore)
    Year: 2023

Conclusion

Vikramsingh Thakur is an exceptional young researcher who blends scientific rigor with industrial relevance. His work in sustainable packaging and multifunctional nanocomposites demonstrates innovation, technical depth, and societal impact. With a strong academic background, hands-on R&D experience, and a growing international footprint, he stands out as a future leader in materials science and engineering. His passion for research, commitment to sustainability, and problem-solving approach make him a deserving candidate for prestigious recognitions and continued contributions to science and technology.

Muhammad Wahab Hanif | Advanced Computing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Wahab Hanif | Advanced Computing | Best Researcher Award

PhD Scholar at Xian University of Science and Technology, China

Dr. Muhammad Wahab Hanif, a Pakistani national born on November 8, 1993, is currently a PhD candidate in Safety Information Systems and Engineering at Xi’an University of Science and Technology in China. Fluent in multiple languages, including English and Urdu, he has dedicated his academic and professional career to advancing technology in safety-critical environments, particularly in coal mining. His innovative approaches aim to enhance operational safety and efficiency through cutting-edge object detection methods.

🎓Profile

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Muhammad Wahab Hanif began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Computer Science from the Government College University in Faisalabad, Pakistan. His undergraduate thesis focused on developing an Online Test Conduction and Evaluation System (OTC&ES), showcasing his early interest in efficient technological solutions. He then pursued a Master’s degree in Computer Science at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, where he designed a smart poultry farm solution that leveraged cloud-based storage for environmental control, further solidifying his expertise in systems integration and automation.

🏢 Professional Endeavors

Currently a PhD candidate at Xi’an University of Science and Technology, Dr. Hanif’s research centers on enhancing safety in coal mining through advanced object detection methods. His experience includes serving as the Principal and Head of the Computer Science Department at Shiblee College and as Chief Technology Officer at Technolangs IT Training Institute, where he played key roles in shaping curriculum and fostering technical skills among students.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Hanif’s dissertation, titled “Research on Advanced Object Detection Methods for Enhancing Safety in Coal Mines,” proposes innovative YOLO-based models tailored for underground environments. His notable models include YOLO-v4-LSAM for real-time object detection and SOD-YOLOv5s-4EL for enhanced accuracy in detecting small targets. These contributions not only advance the field of computer vision but also aim to significantly improve safety protocols in high-risk industrial settings.

🌍 Impact and Influence

The impact of Dr. Hanif’s research is profound, addressing critical challenges in object detection that can lead to improved safety measures for miners. His innovative approaches demonstrate a commitment to advancing technology in hazardous environments, highlighting the importance of real-time detection systems in preventing accidents and enhancing operational efficiency.

📚 Academic Cites

Dr. Hanif has contributed to several publications as both a first and co-author. His work is published in reputable journals, including IET Image Processing and the International Journal of Intelligent Systems and Applications in Engineering. These publications reflect his expertise and are increasingly cited within the academic community, underlining his influence on the field of safety information systems.

💻 Technical Skills

Dr. Hanif possesses a robust skill set that includes expertise in YOLO-based models, deep learning techniques, and embedded systems development. He is proficient in programming languages such as Python and C++, and he utilizes advanced software tools like PyTorch and MATLAB for data analysis and simulation. His technical abilities enable him to tackle complex challenges in object detection and environmental monitoring.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Dr. Hanif’s teaching experience includes significant leadership roles in academic institutions. As Principal of the Computer Science Department at Shiblee College, he influenced the next generation of tech professionals, imparting knowledge in computer science fundamentals and innovative technologies. His commitment to education is evident in his mentoring of students and guiding them through complex concepts in technology.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Hanif approaches the completion of his PhD, he aims to continue his research in safety technologies, expanding applications beyond coal mining to other high-risk industries. His focus on developing efficient and reliable detection systems promises to contribute significantly to operational safety and efficiency in various fields. The legacy he builds will inspire future researchers and practitioners dedicated to advancing safety through technology.

📖Publication Top Notes

Surface Damage Detection Algorithm of Elevator Wire Rope based on YOLOv5s
  • Authors: Muhammad Wahab Hanif, Z., Bashir, R., Farooq, S.A., Khan, J., Sadiq, I.S.
    Publication Year: 2024
A lightweight object detection approach based on edge computing for mining industry
  • Authors: Muhammad Wahab Hanif, Zhanli Li, Zhenhua Yu, Rehmat Bashir
    Publication Year: 2024
A new network model for multiple object detection for autonomous vehicle detection in mining environment
  • Authors: Muhammad Wahab Hanif, Zhenhua Yu, Rehmat Bashir, Zhanli Li, Sardar Annes Farooq, Muhammad Usman Sana
    Publication Year: 2024
An innovative approach to enhance the safety of Elevator using steel cable damage detection model based on YOLO
  • Authors: Muhammad Wahab Hanif
    Publication Year: 2024
Improved particle swarm optimization based on blockchain mechanism for flexible job shop problem
  • Authors: Sana, M.U., Li, Z., Javaid, F., Hanif, M.W., Ashraf, I.
    Publication Year: 2023

 

 

Rehmat Bashir | Advanced Computing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rehmat Bashir | Advanced Computing | Best Researcher Award 

Lecturer at University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan

Rehmat Bashir is a dedicated researcher and lecturer in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on fracture mechanics and stress corrosion cracking. Born on July 19, 1991, in Pakistan, he is currently based at Xi’an University of Science and Technology in China. With exceptional communication skills, Rehmat excels at connecting with students and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. He has a passion for exploring nature, which reflects his curiosity and desire for continuous learning. Throughout his academic career, he has been committed to advancing knowledge in his field, contributing to several high-impact publications, and mentoring master’s students in their research endeavors.

Profile:

Education:

Rehmat Bashir completed his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at Xi’an University of Science and Technology from September 2018 to November 2023, focusing on crucial areas such as fracture mechanics and stress corrosion cracking in nuclear power plants. Prior to this, he earned his Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan, from January 2015 to July 2017. His foundational education includes a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the same institution, which he completed in June 2014. This strong academic background equips him with the knowledge and skills necessary for his research and teaching roles.

Professional experience:

With nearly nine years of teaching experience, Rehmat Bashir has been a lecturer at the University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, since September 2014. His role involves delivering lectures, supervising student research, and managing laboratory activities. Rehmat’s extensive research experience is evident through his numerous publications in reputable journals, where he addresses significant engineering challenges. He actively engages in research projects related to fracture mechanics, contributing to advancements in safety and performance in nuclear engineering. His experience in lab management and student mentorship showcases his commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment while advancing the field of mechanical engineering.

Research focus:

Rehmat Bashir’s research primarily centers on fracture mechanics, particularly the study of stress corrosion cracking and fatigue cracking in nuclear power plants. His innovative work employs advanced methodologies, such as the Extended Finite Element Method (XFEM), to analyze crack propagation and the mechanical behavior of materials under stress. By investigating the interactions between cyclic loading and cracking rates, he aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of nuclear infrastructure. His research has significant implications for material science and engineering, contributing valuable insights into the durability and reliability of critical components in high-stakes environments. Rehmat’s dedication to advancing this field positions him as a valuable asset to both academia and industry.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Title: Interaction of Cyclic Loading (Low-Cyclic Fatigue) with Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) Growth Rate
    Authors: Rehmat Bashir, He Xue, Rui Guo, Yueqi Bi, Muhammad Usman
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 24
  • Title: Effect of XFEM Mesh Density (Mesh Size) on Stress Intensity Factors (K), Strain Gradient (d ε / Dr) and Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) Growth Rate
    Authors: Rehmat Bashir, He Xue, Jianlong Zhang, Rui Guo, Nasir Hayat, Ganbo Li, Yueqi Bi
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 15
  • Title: Effect of Material Macrostructural Parameters on Quantitative Stress Corrosion Cracking Plastic Zone Using Extended Finite Element Method in Welded Joints for Light Water Reactor Environment
    Authors: Rehmat Bashir, He Xue, Jianlong Zhang, Rui Guo
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 18
  • Title: Effect of Yield Strength Distribution Welded Joint on Crack Propagation Path and Crack Mechanical Tip Field
    Authors: Bi, Yueqi; Xiaoming Yuan; Jishuang Lv; Rehmat Bashir; Shuai Wang; He Xue
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 12
  • Title: Development of a Temperature-Controlled Resistance Micro-Change Experimental Device
    Authors: He Xue, Qishen Wei, Chenqiang Ni, Pengchao Xu, Rehmat Bashir, Liang Zhang
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 8
  • Title: Development of a Temperature-Controlled Resistance Micro-Change Experimental Device
    Authors: He Xue, Qishen Wei, Chenqiang Ni, Pengchao Xu, Rehmat Bashir, Liang Zhang
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 8
  • Title: Experimental Evaluation of Methanol-Gasoline Fuel Blend on Performance, Emissions and Lubricant Oil Deterioration in SI Engine
    Authors: Muhammad Ali Ijaz Malik, Muhammad Usman, Nasir Hayat, Syed Wasim Hassan Zubair, Rehmat Bashir, Ehtasham Ahmed
    Year: n.d.
    Citations: 10
  • Title: Mechanical Properties Evaluation and Crack Propagation Behavior in Dissimilar Metal Welded Joints of 304 L Austenitic Stainless Steel and SA508 Low-Alloy Steel
    Authors: Sun, Yuman; He Xue; Fuqiang Yang; Shuai Wang; Shun Zhang; Jinxuan He; Rehmat Bashir
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 5
  • Title: Cracking Driving Force at the Tip of SCC under Heterogeneous Material Mechanics Model of Safe-End Dissimilar Metal-Welded Joints in PWR
    Authors: Sun, Yuman; He Xue; Kuan Zhao; Yubiao Zhang; Youjun Zhao; Weiming Yan; Rehmat Bashir
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 3
  • Title: Enviro-Economic Assessment of HHO–CNG Mixture Utilization in Spark Ignition Engine for Performance and Environmental Sustainability
    Authors: Usman, Muhammad; Muhammad Ali Ijaz Malik; Rehmat Bashir; Fahid Riaz; Muhammad Juniad Raza; Khubaib Suleman; Abd Ul Rehman; Waqar Muhammad Ashraf; Jaroslaw Krzywanski
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 6