Max Barillas | Computational Mechanics | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Max Barillas | Computational Mechanics | Best Researcher Award

PhD Researcher | Centre Internacional de Metodes Numerics en Enginyeria | Spain

Mr. Max Barillas is a dedicated researcher specializing in computational and mechanical engineering with a strong focus on data-driven modeling and materials design. Currently serving as a Predoctoral Researcher at the Centre Internacional de Mètodes Numèrics en Enginyeria (CIMNE) in Barcelona, Max contributes to advancing numerical and computational methods for solving complex engineering problems. His academic trajectory includes a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Santa Clara University and ongoing doctoral research in Civil Engineering at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya. Max’s work demonstrates a strong interdisciplinary approach that merges computational mechanics, materials science, and applied mathematics. His notable research includes the development of non-intrusive, data-driven methodologies for addressing inverse problems in bending dielectric elastomer actuators, emphasizing efficiency and accuracy in modeling soft robotic systems. Additionally, he has contributed to the design of low-porosity auxetic tessellations aimed at reducing mechanical stress concentrations, a study that supports innovations in lightweight and flexible materials. Through these investigations, Max explores the intersection of structural optimization and smart materials, striving to enhance mechanical performance and adaptability. His research reflects a commitment to bridging theoretical frameworks with real-world applications in advanced materials and engineering design. Overall, Max Barillas’s scholarly contributions highlight a forward-thinking perspective within computational mechanics, focusing on leveraging mathematical modeling and numerical analysis to address modern challenges in material behavior and structural engineering, reinforcing his role as an emerging expert in the field of computational and mechanical sciences.

Profile: ORCID
Fearuted Publications:

Barillas, M., Ortigosa, R., Martinez-Frutos, J., Bonet, J., & García-González, A. (2026). Design of low-porosity auxetic tessellations with reduced mechanical stress concentrations. Applied Mathematical Modelling.

Sandra Cunha Gonçalves | Materials Science and Engineering | Women Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Sandra Cunha Gonçalves | Materials Science and Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Research Teacher | Federal Institute of Bahia | Brazil

Prof. Dr. Sandra Cunha Gonçalves has developed a solid academic and scientific career in Civil Engineering, Sustainability, and Environmental Studies, focusing on innovative solutions for the reuse of waste materials in the construction industry. Her research emphasizes solid waste management and the development of eco-friendly materials that incorporate vegetal fibers, modified starch, recycled gypsum, and other industrial by-products to minimize environmental impacts and promote sustainable practices in social housing. Gonçalves has contributed to advancing sustainable construction technologies through the creation of composites and biocomposites with improved physical and mechanical properties, offering alternatives to conventional materials with high energy consumption. Her ongoing projects explore life cycle analysis of materials, the use of green coconut fibers, and polymeric emulsions in gypsum matrices, generating significant results for structural efficiency and environmental performance. Her scientific output includes publications in national and international journals, book chapters, and conference presentations on sustainability, bioconstruction, and waste management. In addition to her research, she promotes extension activities that integrate social technology, environmental education, and vernacular architecture, strengthening the connection between science, culture, and community. At the Federal Institute of Bahia, Gonçalves leads research groups focused on material innovation and environmental education, mentoring new researchers committed to socio-environmental responsibility and construction efficiency. Her professional journey is distinguished by a strong dedication to sustainability, the integration of applied science with technical education, and the continuous pursuit of viable solutions that balance technical performance with the preservation of natural resources.

Profile: ORCID
Featured Publications
Gonçalves, S. C., da Silva Junior, M. F., Souza, M. T., de Amorim Júnior, N. S., & Ribeiro, D. V. (2025). Physicomechanical properties of recycled gypsum composites with polyvinyl acetate emulsion and treated short green coconut fibers. Buildings.

Abdelrahman Elbakheit | Sustainable Architecture | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Abdelrahman Elbakheit | Sustainable Architecture | Best Researcher Award

Associate Prof | King Saud University | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Abdelrahman Elbakheit’s research focuses on the integration of renewable energy systems into sustainable architectural design, emphasizing building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), wind turbines, and their optimization for energy-efficient buildings. His work bridges the fields of architecture, engineering, and environmental design, exploring hybrid systems that combine solar and wind energy technologies to enhance building performance and sustainability. Through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, design experimentation, and real-world case studies, his studies have provided innovative frameworks for improving energy generation efficiency in tall buildings and façade systems. He has contributed to the development of Saudi Arabia’s Green Building Code and authored numerous influential publications addressing topics such as ducted photovoltaic façade systems, aerofoil wing integration for wind energy, and bioclimatic high-rise design. His book and journal works extend from evaluating design parameters to proposing new architectural solutions that merge aesthetics with renewable functionality. Dr. Elbakheit’s expertise also extends to teaching, sustainable project consultancy, and reviewing for international journals such as Energy and Buildings and Solar Energy. His contributions have earned recognition through patents for rooftop wind turbine supports and several awards for innovation and research excellence. With consistent involvement in academic, industrial, and policy-related sustainability initiatives, Dr. Elbakheit continues to advance the integration of renewable technologies within the built environment, influencing the global shift toward climate-responsive architecture and resilient urban development.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID
Featured Publications:

Elbakheit, A. R. (2012). Why tall buildings? The potential of sustainable technologies in tall. International Journal of High-Rise Buildings, 1(2), 117–123.

Elbakheit, A. R. (2019). A ducted photovoltaic façade unit with buoyancy cooling: Part I experiment. Buildings, 9(4), 88.

Elbakheit, A. R. (2018). Effect of turbine resistance and positioning on performance of Aerofoil wing building augmented wind energy generation. Energy and Buildings, 174, 365–371.

Elbakheit, A. R. (2008). Effect of duct width in ducted photovoltaic facades. Proceedings of the CTBUH 8th World Congress, Dubai, UAE, 3–5.

Elbakheit, A. R. (2019). A ducted photovoltaic façade unit with buoyancy cooling: Part II CFD simulation. Buildings, 9(5), 133.

Jialiang Zhu | Mining safety | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Jialiang Zhu | Mining safety | Best Researcher Award

Doctoral Candidate | Anhui University of Science and Technology | China

Mr. Jialiang Zhu from Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, China, focuses research efforts on advanced cement-based materials with a particular interest in optimizing their performance for engineering applications. Zhu’s work integrates computational modeling with experimental techniques to enhance material durability, bonding strength, and toughness—critical parameters for improving the reliability of construction materials. The recent publication titled “Multi-objective optimization of toughness and bonding strength in cement-based sealing materials using RSM coupled with NSGA-II hybrid approach: Performance evaluation and engineering application analysis,” published in Construction and Building Materials (2025), highlights Zhu’s expertise in applying multi-objective optimization algorithms to analyze and refine the mechanical and structural performance of cementitious systems. The study demonstrates a strong focus on the practical engineering relevance of materials, where computational intelligence tools such as the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) are utilized to achieve optimal trade-offs between conflicting performance metrics. This integrative methodology contributes to developing sustainable and resilient building materials with improved structural integrity and sealing capabilities. Zhu’s research underscores a commitment to bridging theoretical modeling and real-world engineering implementation, addressing contemporary challenges in construction materials’ environmental efficiency and structural optimization. Although currently represented by two Scopus-indexed publications, the work exhibits significant methodological innovation and interdisciplinary value, combining material science, computational optimization, and civil engineering applications. The research direction indicates promising potential for future studies focusing on smart materials, eco-efficient concrete technologies, and computational design frameworks for performance prediction. The integration of data-driven optimization with experimental validation sets a strong foundation for future advancements in sustainable infrastructure materials. 0 Citations 2 Documents 0 h-index.

Profile: Scopus
Featured Publications

Multi-objective optimization of toughness and bonding strength in cement-based sealing materials using RSM coupled with NSGA-II hybrid approach: Performance evaluation and engineering application analysis. Construction and Building Materials.

Zhou Ji | FRP reinforced concrete structure | Best Researcher Award

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Zhou Ji | FRP Reinforced Concrete Structure | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Nanjing Forestry University | China

Zhou Ji is a dedicated civil engineering researcher specializing in steel–concrete composite structures and marine or offshore concrete systems, with extensive academic and practical expertise in structural performance and durability. As a doctoral researcher at Guangxi University under Professor Zongping Chen, Zhou has contributed significantly to the understanding of mechanical behaviors, bond characteristics, and seismic performance of advanced composite materials. Zhou has led one Guangxi postgraduate education innovation project and participated in six national and provincial-level research programs focusing on areas such as high-temperature damage assessment, corrosion-resistant marine concrete, and long-lifespan transport hub structures. The research has resulted in 9 SCI-indexed papers and 10 EI-indexed papers as the first author, including publications in high-impact journals like Engineering Structures, Construction and Building Materials, and Journal of Composites for Construction-ASCE. Zhou’s studies on CFRP-steel composite bars in coral sea-sand seawater concrete have provided key insights into bond behavior, structural strength, and post-fire performance, contributing to sustainable marine construction. In addition to academic publications, Zhou has secured four national patents and participated in developing a Guangxi provincial standard. Recognition of excellence includes numerous national and provincial scholarships and awards, such as the Liu Huixian Earthquake Engineering Award and multiple National Scholarship distinctions. The research achievements reflect a deep commitment to advancing composite structural technologies that enhance resilience and sustainability in coastal infrastructure. With a strong foundation in both experimental and numerical analysis, Zhou continues to explore innovative materials and design approaches that address environmental challenges in modern civil engineering. 409 Citations, 16 Documents, and an h-index of 11

Profile: Google Scholar | Scopus | Research Gate

Chen, Z., Zhou, J., Jing, C., & Tan, Q. (2021). Mechanical behavior of spiral stirrup reinforced concrete filled square steel tubular columns under compression. Engineering Structures, 226, 111377.

Chen, Z., Xu, W., & Zhou, J. (2022). Mechanical performance of marine concrete filled CFRP–aluminum alloy tube columns under axial compression: Experiment and finite element analysis. Engineering Structures, 272, 114993.

Chen, Z., Li, S., Zhou, J., Xu, R., & Dai, S. (2022). Flexural behavior of GFRP bars reinforced seawater sea sand concrete beams exposed to marine environment: Experimental and numerical study. Construction and Building Materials, 349, 128784.

Chen, Z., Pang, Y., Xu, R., Zhou, J., & Xu, W. (2022). Mechanical performance of ocean concrete-filled circular CFRP–steel tube columns under axial compression. Journal of Constructional Steel Research, 198, 107514.

Zhou, J., Chen, Z., Chen, Y., Song, C., Li, J., & Zhong, M. (2022). Torsional behavior of steel reinforced concrete beam with welded studs: Experimental investigation. Journal of Building Engineering, 48, 103879.

Zhou Jingya | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Zhou Jingya | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Yanbian University | China

Zhou Jingya, a lecturer at the College of Geography and Ocean Science, Yanbian University, has developed a strong academic foundation in marine engineering, corrosion science, and environmental protection. Her research focuses on the interaction between marine microbial activities and material degradation, emphasizing sustainable and resilient solutions for oceanic infrastructure. Zhou has played a significant role in several prestigious national projects, including studies funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China on targeted antibacterial nanomaterials, the engineering behavior of calcareous sand in the South China Sea, and the combined effects of sea-ice cycles and microbial corrosion on marine structures. As the principal investigator of multiple projects, including those supported by the Jilin Provincial Department of Education and Yanbian University, Zhou explores green concrete and microbial self-healing systems in the context of carbon neutrality and cross-border water pollution mitigation. Her scientific contributions are marked by first and corresponding author roles in several high-impact journals such as International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, Ocean Engineering, Materials, and Microorganisms. Notable publications include research on microbial-induced concrete corrosion and dynamic sulfur cycle modeling in urban sewage systems under extreme environmental conditions. She has also authored a technical book titled Microbial Evaluation and Management Techniques for High-Temperature and High-Salt Urban Sewage Pipelines (2025), reflecting her applied expertise in environmental microbiology. Zhou’s innovative approach combines advanced imaging, biofilm modeling, and multivariate analyses to uncover new mechanisms of material-environment interactions. Her teaching excellence is evidenced by award-winning work on blended learning for environmental bioremediation engineering. With a growing academic influence, reflected in multiple SCI-indexed papers and leadership in interdisciplinary projects, Zhou continues to advance sustainable engineering solutions at the intersection of microbiology, materials science, and marine environmental systems.

Profile: ORCID
Fearuted Publications:

  • Zhang, X., Li, Y., Wang, J., & Liu, H. (2025). Dynamic modeling of the sulfur cycle in urban sewage pipelines under high-temperature and high-salinity conditions. Microorganisms, 13(7), 1534.

  • Zhang, X., Li, Y., Wang, J., & Liu, H. (2025). Mapping the knowledge domain of ocean acidification impacts on marine microbial communities: Visual exploration based on CiteSpace. Preprints.

Ghizlane Moutaoukil | Sustainable construction materials | Eco-friendly Construction Practices Award

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Dr. Ghizlane Moutaoukil | Sustainable construction materials | Eco-friendly Construction Practices Award

Postdoctoral researcher | Centro de Física de Materiales (CFM) | Spain

Dr. Ghizlane Moutaoukil is a distinguished researcher in materials chemistry and environmental science, specializing in the synthesis, characterization, and thermomechanical evaluation of sustainable construction materials. With a PhD jointly earned from Mohammed V University in Rabat and the Institute of Materials Science of Madrid, the research focuses on the development of dense and porous geopolymers derived from industrial waste. Extensive investigations cover the optimization of mechanical and microstructural properties of fly ash-based geopolymers, thermomechanical behavior, foaming processes, and the integration of radiative cooling functions in cementitious composites. As a postdoctoral researcher at the Centro de Fisica de Materiales (CSIC/UPV-EHU), Moutaoukil continues advancing sustainable materials for environmental and energy applications. The impressive publication record in journals such as Materials Letters, Advanced Science, and Construction and Building Materials reflects deep expertise in MAS NMR, FTIR, XRD, and Raman spectroscopy. Patents and collaborative works, notably the “Modern Roman-Inspired Concrete with Daytime Radiative Cooling Capacity,” demonstrate innovative thinking bridging chemistry and civil engineering. Research also includes the mechanosynthesis of phosphate mine waste-based geopolymers and geochemical applications for pollution control. Proficiency in Arabic, French, English, and Spanish strengthens global collaboration capacity. Technical mastery extends to process engineering, corrosion studies, and rheological analysis, with strong computational and statistical design skills. Active participation in international conferences from Morocco to Spain and Turkey underscores commitment to interdisciplinary scientific exchange. Ghizlane Moutaoukil’s contributions—166 citations, 12 publications, and an h-index of 6—reflect consistent research excellence and growing global recognition, making Ghizlane Moutaoukil a promising leader in sustainable materials and environmental innovation.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID
Featured Publications:

Ghizlane Moutaoukil, Isabel Sobrados, & Jorge S. Dolado. (2025, October). Development of phosphate mine waste-based geopolymer by mechanosynthesis. Construction and Building Materials, 143573.

Jorge S. Dolado, Guido Goracci, Ghizlane Moutaoukil, Ridwan O. Agbaoye, Miguel Beruete, Alicia E. Torres‐García, Laura Carlosena, Achutha Prabhu, Jose A. Ibáñez, Nick Adams, et al. (2025, September 12). A modern Roman-inspired concrete with daytime radiative cooling capacity. Advanced Science.

Ghizlane Moutaoukil, Isabel Sobrados, H. Süleyman Gökçe, & Saliha Alehyen. (2025, June). Effect of thermal treatment, foaming and stabilizing agents on the synthesis of fly ash-based geopolymer foams using Raman spectroscopy and 29Si and 27Al MAS NMR. Sustainable Chemistry for the Environment, 100257.

Ghizlane Moutaoukil, Isabel Sobrados, Saliha Alehyen, & M’hamed Taibi. (2024, May 16). Monitoring the geopolymerization reaction of geopolymer foams using 29Si and 27Al MAS NMR. Minerals, 14(5), 516.

Ghizlane Moutaoukil, Isabel Sobrados, Saliha Alehyen, & M’hamed Taibi. (2024, March). Understanding the thermomechanical behavior of geopolymer foams: Influence of rate and type of foaming agent and stabilizer. Chemical Data Collections, 101111.

Ghizlane Moutaoukil, Saliha Alehyen, Isabel Sobrados, & Amine El Mahdi Safhi. (2023, June). Effects of elevated temperature and activation solution content on microstructural and mechanical properties of fly ash-based geopolymer. KSCE Journal of Civil Engineering.

Azunna Sunday | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Azunna Sunday | Structural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Doctoral Researcher | Housing research centre | Malaysia

Mr. Azunna Sunday Ugochukwu has established a strong professional and research background in civil and structural engineering, with notable expertise in sustainable construction materials, structural analysis, and project management. His career includes extensive work in both academic and industrial settings, where he contributed to the design and execution of major infrastructure projects such as residential complexes, university facilities, religious centers, and extensive road networks across Nigeria. At Universiti Putra Malaysia, his research has focused on innovative materials for civil engineering applications, including coconut shell, palm kernel shell, recycled bricks, granite powder, and rubberized geopolymer concrete, leading to multiple publications in reputable international journals. His scholarly contributions span experimental and review studies, addressing compressive strength, stress-strain behavior, and dynamic response of advanced concrete materials, demonstrating his capacity to integrate environmental sustainability with engineering performance. Beyond research, Azunna has engaged in professional workshops on structural modeling, design, and detailing, sharing expertise with institutions such as Federal Polytechnic Bauchi and Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University. His memberships with COREN, the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers, and the Nigerian Society of Engineers affirm his commitment to professional standards and development within the engineering community. With experience as an assistant structural engineer, assistant project manager, and doctoral researcher, he has consistently demonstrated versatility in applying theoretical knowledge to practical engineering challenges. His skill set includes advanced structural design software, AutoCAD, drone operation, and engineering instrumentation, underscoring his technological adaptability. The scope of his executed projects—from institutional buildings to healthcare facilities and leisure parks—highlights his versatility and capacity to manage diverse engineering assignments effectively. His growing academic output, combined with practical project delivery, positions him as a significant contributor to advancing civil engineering knowledge and practice. Engr. Azunna Sunday Ugochukwu has achieved 120 Citations, 8 Documents, and 5 h-index.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID
Featured Publications:

Azunna, S. U. (2019). Compressive strength of concrete with palm kernel shell as a partial replacement for coarse aggregate. SN Applied Sciences, 1(4), 342.

Azunna, S. U., Aziz, F. N. A. A., Rashid, R. S. M., & Bakar, N. B. A. (2024). Review on the characteristic properties of crumb rubber concrete. Cleaner Materials, 12, 100237.

Azunna, S. U., Aziz, F. N. A. A., Cun, P. M., & Elhibir, M. M. O. (2019). Characterization of lightweight cement concrete with partial replacement of coconut shell fine aggregate. SN Applied Sciences, 1(6), 649.

Azunna, S. U., Aziz, F. N. A. A., Bakar, N. A., & Nasir, N. A. M. (2018). Mechanical properties of concrete with coconut shell as partial replacement of aggregates. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 431(3), 032001.

Azunna, S. U., Aziz, F. N. A. B. A., Al-Ghazali, N. A., Rashid, R. S. M., & Bakar, N. A. (2024). Review on the mechanical properties of rubberized geopolymer concrete. Cleaner Materials, 11, 100225.

Nelson Rubens Nascimento Del’Antonio | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Nelson Rubens Nascimento Del’Antonio | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Federal Institute of Education | Brazil

Prof. Dr. Nelson Rubens Nascimento Del’Antonio’s research focuses on environmental engineering with emphasis on water treatment, effluent management, and pulp and paper industry sustainability. His studies contribute significantly to improving industrial wastewater quality through the application of activated carbon and sequencing batch reactors in treating kraft pulp mill effluents. Nelson’s work explores the reduction of chronic toxicity and estrogenicity in pulp mill discharges, promoting environmentally safer industrial practices. His investigations into the influence of process variables—such as acid leaching of wood chips and maintenance shutdowns—highlight the relationship between production efficiency and environmental performance. Through multiple collaborations with experts like Cláudio Mudadu Silva and Jorge Luiz Colodette, Nelson integrates applied chemistry, hydrology, and industrial ecology to enhance effluent biodegradability and optimize pulp bleaching processes. His scholarly output in leading journals such as Chemosphere, Nordic Pulp & Paper Research Journal, and International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology demonstrates technical depth and practical impact in environmental sustainability. In addition to his research, Nelson’s professional experience includes teaching and technical leadership roles in environmental regulation, hydrological management, and industrial sanitation, providing him a holistic understanding of environmental systems and policy frameworks. His academic trajectory reflects a continuous commitment to developing eco-efficient technologies and advancing environmental quality standards within the forest-based and manufacturing sectors. Nelson Rubens Nascimento Del’Antonio has achieved substantial recognition through his multidisciplinary approach, integrating science, engineering, and environmental management to contribute toward sustainable industrial development and improved water resource protection.

Profile: ORCID
Featured Publications

Del’Antonio, N. R. N., Amaral, J. P., & Silva, C. M. (2025). Effect of adding powdered activated carbon in sequencing batch activated sludge reactors for treating pulp mill effluents. International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology.

Del’Antonio, N. R. N., Mounteer, A. H., da Silva, P. R., Monteiro, K. A., Furley, T. H., & Silva, C. M. (2025). Reduction of chronic toxicity and estrogenicity in kraft pulp mill effluents through the addition of powdered activated carbon (PAC) in sequencing batch activated sludge reactors (SBR). Chemosphere.

Del’Antonio, N. R. N., Silva, C. M., de Oliveira, K. D., Nascimento, B. A., & Amaral, J. P. F. (2025). Evaluation of the potential use of powdered activated carbon in the treatment of effluents from bleached kraft pulp mills. Nordic Pulp & Paper Research Journal.

Del’Antonio, N. R. N., Fioreze, M., Caliari, M., Amaral, J. P., & Silva, C. M. (2023). Effects of programmed maintenance shutdowns on effluent quality of a bleached kraft pulp mill. Nordic Pulp & Paper Research Journal.