Ica Manas-Zloczower | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Ica Manas-Zloczower | Chemistry| Best Researcher Award

Professor at Case Western Reserve University, United States

Ica Manas-Zloczower is a distinguished university professor at Case Western Reserve University, specializing in macromolecular science and chemical engineering. With a career spanning over four decades, she has made significant contributions to the fields of polymer processing, advanced materials, and energy solutions. Her extensive research and leadership roles have positioned her as a prominent figure in both academia and professional societies.

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Throughout her career, Ica Manas-Zloczower has published numerous research articles in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to the scientific community. Her work is widely cited, reflecting her influence and expertise in polymer science. Metrics such as citation indices and h-index highlight her prolific output and the impact of her research on advancing knowledge in her field.

  • Total Citations: 5,873
  • Total Documents: 236
  • h-index: 43

Education

Ica earned her Doctor of Science from the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, where she focused on chemical engineering. Her academic journey began at the Polytechnic Institute in Jassy, Romania, where she received both her B.S. and M.S. degrees. This solid educational foundation has underpinned her subsequent achievements in research and teaching.

Research Focus

Her research primarily centers on polymer processing, recycling technologies, and the development of advanced materials. Ica is particularly interested in mechanochemical methods for the recycling of thermosetting polymers and the enhancement of thermomechanical properties of polymer composites. This focus not only addresses critical environmental issues but also pushes the boundaries of material science.

Professional Journey

Ica’s professional journey includes roles as an assistant professor, associate professor, and now as a distinguished university professor at Case Western Reserve University. She has served as the Associate Dean of Faculty Development and has held leadership positions in several professional organizations, including the International Polymer Processing Society. Her academic and administrative roles demonstrate her commitment to fostering growth in engineering education.

Honors & Awards

Ica has received numerous accolades for her teaching, research, and service. Notable honors include the 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers Fred E. Schwab Education Award and the 2012 George S. Whitby Award for Distinguished Teaching and Research. Her recognition as a Fellow of the Society of Plastics Engineers underscores her contributions to the field.

Publications Noted & Contributions

Ica has authored and co-authored a plethora of articles in leading journals, contributing vital research on topics like polymer recycling and mechanical properties of materials. Her editorial roles in several journals further amplify her impact, as she shapes the discourse in polymer science and engineering. Notable publications include works on vitrimerization and thermomechanical properties of polymers, reflecting her innovative research approach.

Improving Performance of TPU by Controlled Crosslinking of Soft Segments

Journal: Polymer Engineering & Science
Publication Date: August 2024
DOI: 10.1002/pen.26826
Contributors: Lucivan P. Barros Junior, Lucio R. de Souza, Rasoul Rahimzadeh, Ica Manas‐Zloczower
This article explores innovative methods to enhance the performance of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) by controlling the crosslinking of its soft segments. The findings contribute to optimizing TPU properties for various applications, particularly in areas requiring enhanced mechanical performance and durability.

A Mechanochemical Approach to Recycle Thermosets Containing Carbonate and Thiourethane Linkages

Journal: Polymer
Publication Date: April 2024
DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2024.126877
Contributors: Rasoul Rahimzadeh, Yazhe Han, Ica Manas-Zloczower
This research presents a mechanochemical method for recycling thermosetting polymers with carbonate and thiourethane linkages. The study addresses the critical issue of polymer waste, proposing a viable recycling technique that could significantly impact sustainability in polymer usage.

Thermomechanical Performance of Thermoplastic Polyurethane–Poly(tetrafluoroethylene) Fibril Nanocomposites

Journal: ACS Applied Polymer Materials
Publication Date: July 14, 2023
DOI: 10.1021/acsapm.3c00738
Contributors: Maya Pishvar, Mehrad Amirkhosravi, Ica Manas-Zloczower
This article investigates the thermomechanical properties of nanocomposites made from TPU and poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) fibrils. The research contributes to the understanding of composite behavior, highlighting the potential for developing advanced materials with superior mechanical properties.

Porous Hydrogels: Present Challenges and Future Opportunities

Journal: Langmuir
Publication Date: February 14, 2023
DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c02253
Contributors: Reza Foudazi, Ryan Zowada, Ica Manas-Zloczower, Donald L. Feke
This publication reviews the current challenges in developing porous hydrogels while identifying future research directions. It serves as a comprehensive resource for researchers in the field, fostering innovation in hydrogel applications.

Thermomechanical Properties of Cross-Linked EVA: A Holistic Approach

Journal: ACS Applied Polymer Materials
Publication Date: February 10, 2023
DOI: 10.1021/acsapm.2c01928
Contributors: Kimberly Miller McLoughlin, Amin Jamei Oskouei, Michelle K. Sing, Alireza Bandegi, Sarah Mitchell, Jayme Kennedy, Thomas G. Gray, Ica Manas-Zloczower
This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the thermomechanical properties of cross-linked ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). By utilizing a holistic approach, the study enhances understanding of the relationship between processing conditions and material performance.

Research Timeline

Over the years, Ica’s research has evolved, with early work focusing on basic polymer processing principles and later expanding into advanced recycling technologies and material characterization. This timeline illustrates her adaptability and foresight in addressing emerging challenges in materials science, making significant contributions to both academia and industry.

Conclusion

Ica Manas-Zloczower’s career is marked by a dedication to research, teaching, and professional service in the field of macromolecular science and engineering. Her contributions not only advance scientific understanding but also inspire future generations of engineers. As she continues to push the boundaries of polymer science, her legacy will undoubtedly influence the direction of research and education in the field.

Elaheh Yaghoubi | Reaction Mechanisms | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Elaheh Yaghoubi | Reaction Mechanisms | Women Researcher Award

Doctorate at Karabuk University, Turkey

Elaheh Yaghoubi is a Ph.D. candidate in Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Karabuk University, Turkey, where she has achieved a perfect GPA of 4.0. Her research centers on power system analysis, microgrids, and renewable energy, showcasing her commitment to advancing smart grid technologies. With a robust background in electrical engineering, Elaheh combines academic excellence with practical experience in quality control and web development.

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Google Scholar Profile

Elaheh has several publications under review, showcasing her contributions to the fields of power systems and control strategies. Her works have been recognized for their innovation, particularly in model predictive control and the application of machine learning in smart grids, highlighting her emerging impact in the research community.

  • Citations: Elaheh has accumulated a total of 77 citations, with 75 citations since 2019, indicating a strong and growing influence in her field.
  • h-index: Her h-index is 6, reflecting that she has six publications that have each been cited at least six times, showcasing her impactful contributions to research.
  • i10-index: Elaheh holds an i10-index of 4, meaning she has at least four publications with ten or more citations each, highlighting her ability to produce significant and recognized research outputs.

Education

Elaheh’s academic journey is marked by exceptional achievements: she is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at Karabuk University (2021-present) with a focus on optimal power control, following her M.Sc. from Islamic Azad University (2016-2018) and a B.Sc. from Aryan Institute of Science and Technology (2012-2014), both with a GPA of 4.0. Her strong educational foundation supports her research ambitions in advanced electrical engineering topics.

Research Focus

Her research primarily explores power system stability, microgrid management, and renewable energy integration. Elaheh is particularly interested in model predictive control (MPC) and the application of artificial intelligence techniques, such as machine learning and deep learning, to enhance the efficiency and reliability of smart grids.

Professional Journey

Elaheh’s professional experience includes roles as a Principal Researcher in the PEDAR Group and as a Senior Manager in multiple electronics companies. She has also contributed as a website designer, where she combined her engineering background with web development skills. This diverse experience reflects her capability to integrate technical expertise with managerial responsibilities.

Honors & Awards

She has received the Best Researcher Award, underscoring her dedication to excellence in her research endeavors. This recognition highlights her contributions to innovative solutions in electrical engineering, particularly in the context of microgrids and smart grids.

Publications Noted & Contributions

Elaheh has several publications in reputable journals, focusing on real-time operations in microgrids, model predictive control, and power system risk analysis. Her work aims to push the boundaries of traditional methods, integrating advanced technologies to address contemporary challenges in electrical engineering.

1. A systematic review and meta-analysis of machine learning, deep learning, and ensemble learning approaches in predicting EV charging behavior

  • Authors: E. Yaghoubi, E. Yaghoubi, A. Khamees, D. Razmi, T. Lu
  • Journal: Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence
  • Publication Year: 2024
  • Summary: This publication presents a comprehensive review and meta-analysis of various machine learning techniques applied to predict electric vehicle (EV) charging behavior. By synthesizing existing studies, it provides insights into the effectiveness and reliability of different algorithms, serving as a valuable resource for future research in EV infrastructure and smart grid integration.

2. A systematic review and meta-analysis of artificial neural network, machine learning, deep learning, and ensemble learning approaches in the field of geotechnical engineering

  • Authors: E. Yaghoubi, E. Yaghoubi, A. Khamees, AH Vakili
  • Journal: Neural Computing and Applications
  • Publication Year: 2024
  • Summary: This paper explores the application of advanced computational methods in geotechnical engineering. By evaluating the performance of neural networks and other machine learning techniques, it highlights their potential to improve predictive accuracy in engineering applications, thus contributing to enhanced design and safety standards.

3. Controlling and tracking the maximum active power point in a photovoltaic system connected to the grid using the fuzzy neural controller

  • Authors: Z. Yusupov, E. Yaghoubi, E. Yaghoubi
  • Conference: 14th International Conference on Electrical and Electronics Engineering
  • Publication Year: 2023
  • Summary: This conference paper discusses a fuzzy neural controller designed to optimize the power output of photovoltaic systems. By effectively managing the maximum power point tracking (MPPT), this research contributes to the efficiency of solar energy systems, which is crucial for integrating renewable sources into the grid.

4. Modeling and Control of Decentralized Microgrid Based on Renewable Energy and Electric Vehicle Charging Station

  • Authors: Z. Yusupov, N. Almagrahi, E. Yaghoubi, E. Yaghoubi, A. Habbal, D. Kodirov
  • Conference: World Conference on Intelligent System for Industrial Automation
  • Publication Year: 2022
  • Summary: This paper presents a model for decentralized microgrids that incorporates renewable energy sources and EV charging stations. The research emphasizes control strategies that enhance the reliability and sustainability of microgrid operations, aligning with the growing need for green energy solutions.

5. Real-time techno-economical operation of preserving microgrids via optimal NLMPC considering uncertainties

  • Authors: E. Yaghoubi, E. Yaghoubi, Z. Yusupov, J. Rahebi
  • Journal: Engineering Science and Technology, an International Journal
  • Publication Year: 2024
  • Summary: This study focuses on a novel non-linear model predictive control (NLMPC) approach for the real-time management of microgrids. By considering uncertainties, it aims to optimize techno-economic performance, thus enhancing the operational resilience and economic viability of microgrid systems.

Research Timeline

Elaheh’s research timeline includes her current Ph.D. work from 2021 onwards, with key publications submitted and under review throughout 2024. This timeline indicates her active engagement in research and continuous contributions to the field, aiming to establish a strong foundation for future innovations.

Conclusion

Dr. Elaheh Yaghoubi’s achievements as a Ph.D. candidate at Karabuk University exemplify her dedication to advancing the field of electrical engineering, particularly in power systems and renewable energy. Her innovative research, marked by significant contributions and a strong academic background, has earned her recognition as the Best Researcher. While there are areas for improvement, such as expanding her publication reach and enhancing collaboration efforts, her trajectory suggests a promising future in research. As she continues to push the boundaries of smart grid technologies, Elaheh is poised to make lasting impacts in her field and contribute to sustainable energy solutions.