Jae-Do Nam | Functional polymer composites | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Jae-Do Nam | Functional polymer composites | Best Researcher Award

Professor at  Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea

Jae-Do Nam is a Professor at the School of Chemical Engineering and Department of Polymer Science and Engineering at Sungkyunkwan University, Korea. He is also an adjunct Professor in the Department of Energy. Dr. Nam has contributed extensively to polymer science and engineering, focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly technologies. With over 260 peer-reviewed journal papers and 60 patents, he is a leading figure in his field. He collaborates with global corporations like Hyundai Motors, Samsung, and LG Chemicals.

Publication Profile

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Education🎓📖

Dr. Nam earned a B.S. and M.S. in Chemical Engineering from Seoul National University in 1984 and 1986, respectively, and his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Washington in 1991.

Experience🏫🔬

Dr. Nam has served as a research associate faculty at the Polymeric Composites Laboratory at the University of Washington (1991-1993), and he joined Sungkyunkwan University in 1994. He held leadership roles as a department chairman and visiting professor at institutions including EPFL and the University of Washington.

Awards & Honors 🏆🌟

Dr. Nam has received numerous accolades, including leadership roles in key conferences, directorships in major research centers, and a prominent membership in the Korean Rheology Society. He has also been a member of advisory boards for various international scientific bodies.

Research Focus⚙️🔬

Dr. Nam’s research interests include polymer nanocomposites, electroactive actuators, biodegradable materials, and advanced fabrication methods for various applications in automotive and electronics industries. He is dedicated to eco-friendly and sustainable technological innovations.

Publication  Top Notes

 

Electrospun Dual-Porosity Structure and Biodegradation Morphology of Montmorillonite Reinforced PLLA Nanocomposite Scaffolds
YH Lee, JH Lee, IG An, C Kim, DS Lee, YK Lee, JD Nam – Biomaterials 26 (16), 3165-3172 (2005)
Citation: 391

Development of Soft-Actuator-Based Wearable Tactile Display
IM Koo, K Jung, JC Koo, JD Nam, YK Lee, HR Choi – IEEE Transactions on Robotics 24 (3), 549-558 (2008)
Citation: 355

Thermal and Mechanical Characteristics of Poly (L-lactic Acid) Nanocomposite Scaffold
JH Lee, TG Park, HS Park, DS Lee, YK Lee, SC Yoon, JD Nam – Biomaterials 24 (16), 2773-2778 (2003)
Citation: 340

Graphene/Cellulose Nanocomposite Paper with High Electrical and Mechanical Performances
ND Luong, N Pahimanolis, U Hippi, JT Korhonen, J Ruokolainen, … – Journal of Materials Chemistry 21 (36), 13991-13998 (2011)
Citation: 288

Hygroscopic Aspects of Epoxy/Carbon Fiber Composite Laminates in Aircraft Environments
HS Choi, KJ Ahn, JD Nam, HJ Chun – Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing 32 (5), 709-720 (2001)
Citation: 270

Enhanced Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Polyimide Film by Graphene Sheets via In Situ Polymerization
ND Luong, U Hippi, JT Korhonen, AJ Soininen, J Ruokolainen, … – Polymer 52 (23), 5237-5242 (2011)
Citation: 254

High Thermal Conductivity Epoxy Composites with Bimodal Distribution of Aluminum Nitride and Boron Nitride Fillers
JP Hong, SW Yoon, T Hwang, JS Oh, SC Hong, Y Lee, JD Nam – Thermochimica Acta 537, 70-75 (2012)
Citation: 243

Effect of PEG-PLLA Diblock Copolymer on Macroporous PLLA Scaffolds by Thermally Induced Phase Separation
H Do Kim, EH Bae, IC Kwon, RR Pal, J Do Nam, DS Lee – Biomaterials 25 (12), 2319-2329 (2004)
Citation: 196

Investigations on Actuation Characteristics of IPMC Artificial Muscle Actuator
K Jung, J Nam, H Choi – Sensors and Actuators A: Physical 107 (2), 183-192 (2003)
Citation: 180

Graphene Oxide Porous Paper from Amine-Functionalized Poly (Glycidyl Methacrylate)/Graphene Oxide Core-Shell Microspheres
J Oh, JH Lee, JC Koo, HR Choi, Y Lee, T Kim, ND Luong, JD Nam – Journal of Materials Chemistry 20 (41), 9200-9204 (2010)
Citation: 176

 

Conclusion

Dr. Jae-Do Nam stands out as a pioneer in polymer science and is an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His vast body of work, extensive publication record, leadership in high-impact research centers, and active participation in advancing polymer science on a global scale make him a standout figure in the field. His ability to bridge the gap between academia and industry, particularly in the areas of sustainability and advanced polymer applications, ensures that his research will continue to have a lasting impact. With his established record of success, Dr. Nam embodies the qualities of a transformative researcher deserving of this prestigious recognition.

Julia Puseletso Mofokeng | nanocomposites | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Julia Puseletso Mofokeng | nanocomposites | Women Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer / Researcher at University of the Free State, South Africa

Dr. Julia Puseletso Mofokeng is a Senior Lecturer and Researcher in the Department of Chemistry at the University of the Free State (UFS), QwaQwa Campus, South Africa. She holds a Ph.D. in Polymer Science (2015) from UFS, where she also obtained her M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees. Her research focuses on polymer-titania nanocomposites and sustainable polymers. As an NRF Y2-rated Emerging Researcher (2021-2025), Dr. Mofokeng is recognized for her contributions to polymer science, receiving the Best Emerging Researcher award in Natural and Agricultural Sciences (QwaQwa Campus) in 2016.

Publication Profile

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Academic and Research Contributions

Dr. Mofokeng teaches Honours-level modules in Physical Polymer Science and Polymer Testing and Characterization at UFS. She supervises Honours, Master’s, and Ph.D. students, actively publishing research in polymer science. In her roles, she oversees the research laboratory, sources research funding, and contributes to curriculum development.

Professional Experience

Since 2019, Dr. Mofokeng has been a Senior Lecturer, previously serving as a Lecturer (2017–2018), Officer in Professional Services (2011–2017), and Research Assistant (1999–2011). Her extensive experience in research operations has involved hands-on roles in laboratory management, equipment maintenance, student training, and conducting complex polymer analyses.

Skills and Expertise

Dr. Mofokeng is proficient in a variety of scientific instruments, including DSC, TGA, FTIR, DMA, and rheometers, essential for polymer characterization and analysis. She has experience with SEM, TEM, and STEM techniques and is skilled in synthesizing polymers, composites, and nanocomposites.

Publication  Top Notes

 

Preparation of PLA/PHBV/GO Composites for Lead Ion Removal

Publication: Polymer Composites, 2024

Focus: Develops PLA/PHBV/GO composites specifically for selectively removing Pb(II) ions from water.

Synthesis of Graphene Oxide for Lead Ion Removal

Publication: Carbon Trends, 2024

Focus: Details the synthesis and properties of GO aimed at lead ion adsorption in water.

Morphology and Thermal Properties of PLA/PHBV/GO Composites

Publication: Polymer Engineering and Science, 2024

Focus: Analyzes structural and thermal aspects of PLA/PHBV/GO composites.

Properties of Polybutylene Succinate-Pineapple Leaf Fiber Composites

Publication: Heliyon, 2023

Focus: Discusses chemical and thermal properties of eco-friendly PBS composites using waste fibers.

Review on Graphene-Based Biodegradable Polymer Composites

Publication: Materials, 2023

Focus: Reviews the use of graphene in polymer composites for heavy metal adsorption in water.

Polysiloxane in Guar Gum-Polyaniline Matrix

Publication: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2018

Focus: Studies the effect of polysiloxane on the thermal and optical properties of a modified guar gum matrix.

LDPE with Carbon Black, Zinc, and Paraffin Wax

Publication: Journal of Polymer Research, 2017

Focus: Investigates the thermo-switch properties of LDPE composites with various additives.

Thermal Stability of PCL/PLA Composites with Layered Silicates

Publication: Polymer Testing, 2016

Focus: Explores thermal stability enhancements in PCL/PLA composites.

PLA/PHBV Nanocomposites with TiO₂ as Filler

Publication: Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2015

Focus: Analyzes the thermal degradation and morphology of PLA/PHBV blends with TiO₂ fillers.

Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Various Biodegradable Polymer Blends

Publication: Thermochimica Acta, 2015

Focus: Examines mechanical properties of PLA/PHBV, PLA/PCL, and PHBV/PCL blends with TiO₂ nanofillers.

 

Conclusion

Dr. Mofokeng’s achievements and dedication make her a strong candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her contributions to polymer science, leadership in academia, and consistent service to the University of the Free State highlight her commitment to her field and inspire future women researchers. With continued efforts to expand her international research footprint, she stands poised to make an even greater impact in polymer science.

Raguraman Munusamy | lightweight sandwich structures | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. Raguraman Munusamy | lightweight sandwich structures | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr at Indian Institute of Information Technology Design and Manufacturing Kancheepuram, India

A distinguished professor at Korea Maritime and Ocean University, he has significantly contributed to marine engineering, mechanical science, and combustion research. With a Ph.D. from Hokkaido University, Japan (2005) and a Master’s from Korea Maritime University (2000), his career spans academia, research, and advisory roles. His focus on hydrogen production, microgravity combustion, and air pollution control from ships positions him as a leader in environmental and engineering innovations. He has served as a visiting scholar, naval officer, and policy advisor, with numerous awards recognizing his expertise and impact. 🌍

Publication Profile

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Education 🎓

Ph.D. in Mechanical Science from Hokkaido University (2005), mentored by Prof. Osamu Fujita, focusing on advanced combustion engineering and fluid mechanics. M.S. in Marine Engineering from Korea Maritime University (2000), under Prof. Seok-Hun Yoon, concentrating on marine technology, emissions control, and environmental engineering. B.S. in Marine Engineering from Korea Maritime University (1996), laying a strong foundation in marine systems, engine technology, and heat transfer processes.

Experience🔬

Naval Officer (1996-1998): Built leadership and engineering expertise through military service in Korea’s Navy. Researcher (2000-2001) at Korea Maritime University: Focused on engineering solutions for marine pollution. Postdoctoral Fellow (2005-2007) at Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute: Worked on nuclear hydrogen production projects. Assistant Professor at Seoul National University (2007-2009), followed by a research role at Korean Register. Professor (2009-present) at Korea Maritime and Ocean University: Currently leading projects on air pollution reduction, combustion processes, and hydrogen energy. Policy Advisor (2017-2019) for Korea’s Ministry of Ocean and Fisheries.

Awards and Honors🏅

Ministerial Citations: Ministry of Ocean and Fisheries (2018), Ministry of Science, ICT, and Future Planning (2015) Best Teacher Awards (2014, 2017) at Korea Maritime and Ocean University. Featured in ‘2000 Outstanding Intellectuals of the 21st Century’ by IBC and Marquis Who’s Who in the World (2016) Outstanding Paper Awards: Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers (2007) and Korean Society of Marine Engineering (2006). Additional recognitions from Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (2006) and the President of Korea Maritime and Ocean University (2013, 2014).

Research Focus 💨 

Air Pollution from Ships: Developing technologies to reduce emissions (soot, NOx, Sox) and gas slips from marine engines. 💧 Hydrogen Production: Modeling high-temperature steam electrolysis to advance cleaner energy solutions. Combustion Engineering: Investigating soot formation in microgravity environments and improving flame stabilization techniques. Space Utilization Engineering: Studying chemical processes in microgravity to improve space-based technologies. Heat and Fluid Flow Modeling: Utilizing tools like ANSYS to simulate complex engineering systems for optimization and safety.

Publication  Top Notes

  • Distortion Prediction in LPBF Process: Published in International Journal on Interactive Design and Manufacturing (2023), this study presents a simulation-driven methodology for predicting distortions in thin-walled compressor blades manufactured using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF).
  • Residual Stress in Ti6Al4V Geometries: His 2023 study in Defence Technology addresses the residual stresses and distortions in thin-walled structures built using LPBF, focusing on titanium alloys.
  • Comparative Study of Biobased and Mineral Oils: In 2022, he explored the lubricity and life cycle of bio-based oils in machining titanium alloys, published in Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing.
  • Composite Sandwich Panel Design: His 2022 work, published in the International Journal of Crashworthiness, investigates composite sandwich panels for lightweight structural applications.
  • Projectile Impact Studies: Raguraman has authored multiple articles on the behavior of materials under dynamic loading, especially in military defense contexts involving projectile impacts on metallic and composite armor plates.

Conclusion

The researcher is highly qualified for the Best Researcher Award based on their extensive academic background, leadership roles in marine and combustion engineering, and international recognition. With strengths in innovation, practical application, and interdisciplinary research, they are a strong candidate. A slight increase in global collaborations and sustainability focus could further boost their competitiveness for such prestigious awards. Overall, their profile aligns well with the award’s criteria, particularly in terms of originality and research excellence.