Mr. Frédéric Pignon | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Frédéric Pignon | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Frédéric Pignon , Chemical Engineering ,Senior Scientist at CNRS/Laboratoire Rhéologie et Procédés, France

Frédéric Pignon is a Senior Scientist (Directeur de Recherche, DR1) at CNRS, affiliated with the Laboratoire Rhéologie et Procédés (LRP), UMR 5520, Grenoble, France.🇫🇷, he specializes in fluid mechanics and soft matter rheology. With over 25 years of expertise, Pignon has significantly contributed to the understanding of the multiscale structural behavior of anisotropic dispersions under various flow conditions. His pioneering development of in situ experimental setups has enabled novel insights into flow-structure relationships using SAXS, SANS, SALS, and ultrasound techniques. He holds an h-index of 32 📊, with 76 international publications, 2 patents, and numerous invited talks globally . Apart from research, he actively contributes to scientific evaluation committees and review panels including ANR, HCERES, and ESRF. His collaborations span leading institutions in Europe, North America, and Asia, positioning him as a key figure in advanced rheological material research.

Professional Profile : 

Orcid

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Pignon holds a Ph.D. in Fluid Mechanics and Transfer (1997, Grenoble-INP), with prior DEA in the same field. His formal training is strongly aligned with his long-term research focus in rheology and multiscale fluid dynamics. He has published 76 peer-reviewed international journal papers, presented in 97 international conferences (including 8 invited talks), and holds 2 patents. His h-index of 32 demonstrates sustained impact in his field. His research uniquely combines rheometric properties with nanoscale-to-microscale structural characterization using advanced techniques such as SAXS, SALS, and optical methods. These contributions have significantly advanced the understanding of flow-induced behavior in complex fluids and materials. Dr. Frédéric Pignon’s pioneering research, prolific publication record, significant mentoring, leadership in scientific boards, and innovative patent contributions make him exceptionally well-qualified for the “Best Researcher Award”. His work bridges theoretical insight with experimental innovation in fluid mechanics and nanostructured systems, making a deep impact on science and industry alike. He is a model of scientific excellence and leadership.

🎓Education:

Frédéric Pignon pursued higher education in engineering and fluid mechanics in France. In 1993, he earned his D.E.A. (Diplôme d’Études Approfondies) in Fluid Mechanics and Transfer from Grenoble-INP, one of France’s premier engineering institutions 🎓. He deepened his specialization by completing a Ph.D. in Fluid Mechanics and Transfer at the same institution in January 1997, underlining his early interest in the microstructural behavior of complex fluids. His doctoral research laid the foundation for his later pioneering work in multiscale flow characterization. Pignon’s strong academic formation in physics, transport phenomena, and complex systems gave him a robust foundation to innovate in rheometry and structural analysis of soft matter systems. His academic path reflects a consistent focus on multidisciplinary approaches to fluid behavior, bridging physics, materials science, and applied engineering.

🏢Work Experience:

Frédéric Pignon has held leading research positions within the CNRS system for over two decades 🧪. Since October 2013, he serves as Senior Scientist (DR1) at CNRS-LRP, following a 14-year tenure (1999–2013) as Research Scientist (CR1). Earlier, he conducted postdoctoral research at ESRF’s ID28 Beamline (1999) and Laboratoire Rhéologie et Procédés (LRP) (1997–1998) 🔬. His research career is defined by designing cutting-edge experimental cells that integrate rheology with structural probes (SAXS/SANS/optical methods). He supervises Ph.D. students and postdoctoral researchers, participates actively in international collaborations, and leads major research projects across France and Europe. Pignon’s extensive academic and industrial network has facilitated groundbreaking studies on anisotropic particles, biopolymers, and colloids under dynamic conditions. He also contributes to scientific governance through involvement in evaluation panels (ESRF, ANR, HCERES), steering strategic research and innovation.

🏅Awards: 

Frédéric Pignon’s research excellence has been recognized through leadership roles, panel appointments, and competitive research funding . He is a long-standing member of the ESRF Review Committee (Panel C08) (2014–present) and served on France’s ANR CES 09 panel (2018). He also contributed to institutional evaluation through HCERES Committee vague C (2016–2017). As Co-PI of Labex Tec 21 (2013–2021) and scientific coordinator for Carnot PolyNat Institute projects, he has driven interdisciplinary research strategies. Pignon holds two patents, including one on thixotropic hydrogels and another on an ultrasound-enhanced filtration device 🔬. He has secured significant funding from national and regional sources (ANR, SATT, Région Bretagne), supervising several Ph.D. and postdoctoral projects. His work is frequently cited and referenced in the scientific community, and he is a regular reviewer for top-tier journals and national research proposals, having completed 83 international journal reviews and 7 ANR project reviews.

🔬Research Focus:

Frédéric Pignon’s research bridges rheology, soft matter physics, and multiscale characterization. His expertise lies in understanding how anisotropic particles—like cellulose nanocrystals and clay platelets—organize under flow, pressure, or acoustic fields. By developing custom in situ setups integrating rheometers with SAXS, SANS, birefringence, and SALS, he studies how microstructure impacts mechanical properties during dynamic processing. His group investigates orientation, aggregation, concentration polarization, and gelation in suspensions, particularly during cross-flow filtration and ultrasound exposure. He also explores bio-based nanomaterials and the physical behavior of hydrogels, enabling applications in biotechnology and green materials. Collaborating with synchrotron and neutron facilities, he probes structures from nanometer to micrometer scales. Projects like ANR ANISOFILM and Memus (SATT Linksium) showcase his role in advancing filtration, structural control, and nanocomposite design. His research is highly interdisciplinary, combining physics, chemistry, and process engineering.

Publication Top Notes:

1. ​Multi-scale investigation of the effect of photocurable polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) on the self-assembly of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs)​

2. ​A self-cleaning biocatalytic membrane with adjusted polyphenol deposition for edible oil-water separation

3. ​A scalable and eco-friendly carbohydrate-based oleogelator for vitamin E controlled delivery​

4. ​Orthotropic organization of a cellulose nanocrystal suspension realized via the combined action of frontal ultrafiltration and ultrasound as revealed by in situ SAXS​

5. ​Viologen-based supramolecular crystal gels: gelation kinetics and sensitivity to temperature

6. ​Molecular mechanism of casein-chitosan fouling during microfiltration​

7. ​Multiscale investigation of viscoelastic properties of aqueous solutions of sodium alginate and evaluation of their biocompatibility

8. ​Self-supported MOF/cellulose-nanocrystals materials designed from ultrafiltration

9. ​Orientation of Cellulose Nanocrystals Controlled in Perpendicular Directions by Combined Shear Flow and Ultrasound Waves Studied by Small-Angle X-ray Scattering

10. ​Effect of Polymer Length on the Adsorption onto Aluminogermanate Imogolite Nanotubes

Citations: 3​

11. ​Breakdown and buildup mechanisms of cellulose nanocrystal suspensions under shear and upon relaxation probed by SAXS and SALS

 

Prof. Zhilong Cao | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Zhilong Cao | Green Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Zhilong Cao , Green Chemistry , Deputy Director at Beijing University of Technology, China

Dr. Zhilong Cao is a Professor and Ph.D. Supervisor at Beijing University of Technology, specializing in advanced materials and technologies for sustainable asphalt pavements. With a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Wuhan University of Technology, he focuses on the development of low-carbon, green, and smart functional materials aimed at extending pavement life and promoting high-quality recycling. Since joining Beijing University of Technology in 2022, he has led several national and industrial research projects, particularly in asphalt modification and regeneration. His contributions have earned him prestigious recognitions, including the Outstanding Talent Award. Dr. Cao is driven by innovation and sustainability, exploring smart infrastructure solutions that align with global environmental goals. His research has practical implications in urban infrastructure development, especially in road and airport pavement systems. Dedicated to fostering future talent, he also mentors Master’s and Ph.D. students while actively collaborating with industry stakeholders to bridge academic research with real-world applications.

Professional Profile :         

Orcid

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Prof. Zhilong Cao is a highly suitable candidate for the “Best Researcher Award”, given his impactful contributions in the field of sustainable pavement engineering. With a strong academic background in Materials Science and Engineering, and holding a Ph.D. from Wuhan University of Technology, he has shown exemplary leadership in the development of low-carbon, smart, and green construction materials. As a Professor and Ph.D. Supervisor at Beijing University of Technology, he has spearheaded nationally funded research projects, including grants from the NSFC and China Postdoctoral Science Foundation, focusing on advanced asphalt regeneration and modification technologies. His research not only addresses academic challenges but also meets urgent industrial and environmental needs. His honors, such as the Outstanding Talent Award and Best Ph.D. Thesis Award, further reflect his merit and potential. He actively mentors future researchers and collaborates with industry, making his work both impactful and translational.

🎓Education:

Dr. Zhilong Cao completed both his Ph.D. (2018–2021) and M.S. (2015–2018) in Materials Science and Engineering from Wuhan University of Technology, one of China’s premier institutions for engineering and material innovation. During his graduate years, he conducted cutting-edge research on asphalt materials, focusing on functional modifications and sustainability. His doctoral work received wide acclaim, earning him the Outstanding Ph.D. Graduate and Thesis Award. His academic training emphasized a strong integration of theoretical knowledge and experimental practices in materials science, particularly with applications in transportation engineering. He developed specialized expertise in pavement materials, polymer modification, and asphalt regeneration technologies. His strong academic foundation and passion for materials innovation led him to a faculty position at Beijing University of Technology, where he now mentors graduate students and leads significant research initiatives. Dr. Cao’s educational path reflects both academic excellence and a clear vision toward sustainable infrastructure development.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Zhilong Cao began his academic career as a graduate student at Wuhan University of Technology, where he earned his M.S. and Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering. Following the completion of his doctorate in 2021, he joined Beijing University of Technology in January 2022 as a Professor and Ph.D. Supervisor in the Department of Road and Rail Engineering. In this role, he leads research projects on green pavement materials and mentors Master’s and Doctoral students. His academic responsibilities include developing new course materials, overseeing lab-based research, and fostering collaborations with industry to apply advanced materials in real-world contexts. He has secured multiple prestigious research grants, including from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation. Dr. Cao’s professional experience demonstrates a strong trajectory from promising researcher to established academic leader, with a focus on sustainable infrastructure technologies and innovative material development.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Zhilong Cao has received several prestigious awards in recognition of his outstanding contributions to research and academic excellence. In 2023, he was honored with the Outstanding Talent Award by Beijing University of Technology for his innovative work in the field of sustainable pavement engineering. During his Ph.D. at Wuhan University of Technology, he earned the Outstanding Ph.D. Graduate Award and the Thesis Award in 2021, reflecting the significance and impact of his doctoral research. These accolades underscore Dr. Cao’s commitment to excellence in both academic research and practical innovation. His ability to bridge theoretical insights with applied engineering solutions has made him a recognized name in his field. These honors not only mark his personal achievements but also highlight his leadership potential in driving forward environmentally friendly and high-performance pavement technologies. Dr. Cao continues to strive for innovation and sustainability in the infrastructure materials sector.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Zhilong Cao’s research is centered on sustainable and intelligent solutions for modern pavement infrastructure. His work explores low-carbon construction and maintenance materials, particularly for asphalt pavements, aiming to reduce environmental impact while improving performance. A key area of interest is the regeneration and recycling of SBS-modified asphalt, especially for aging road surfaces and airport runways. He also investigates green and smart functional materials that respond to environmental stimuli, enhancing pavement durability and functionality. Dr. Cao’s research extends to polyurethane-modified asphalts and innovative crosslinking networks for performance recovery in aged pavements. His interdisciplinary approach bridges materials science with transportation engineering, aligning his work with global sustainability goals. Through national projects and industry collaborations, he contributes to next-generation infrastructure technologies that emphasize longevity, efficiency, and eco-friendliness. His research has both academic and practical implications, improving the resilience and sustainability of urban transportation systems.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Investigation on Active Rejuvenation Mechanism of Aged SBS Modified Bitumen: Insights from Experiments and Molecular Dynamics

2. Laboratory Evaluation of Ultraviolet Aging Performance of Regenerated SBS Modified Bitumen Based on Active Flexible Rejuvenators with Different Molecular Structures

3. Creep Recovery Behavior of Fresh, Aged, and Rejuvenated SBS-Modified Asphalt under High Shear Stresses​

4. Effect of Organic Coal Gangue Powder with Terminal Active Isocyanate Groups on the Performance of Asphalt and Its Mixture​

5. VOCs Inhibited Asphalt Mixtures for Green Pavement: Emission Reduction Behavior, Environmental Health Impact and Road Performance

6. Environmentally Friendly End-Capped Polyurethane for Enhancing Asphalt-Granite Adhesion

 

 

Chikara Tsutsumi | Biodegradable polymer | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Chikara Tsutsumi | Biodegradable polymer | Best Researcher Award

Professor at National Institute of Technology, Niihama College, Japan

Dr. Chikara Tsutsumi is a Professor at the Department of Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology in the National Institute of Technology, Niihama College (NIT, Niihama College) since 2020. He obtained his Doctor of Engineering degree in polymer chemistry from Hiroshima University in 2004. His research primarily focuses on biodegradable polymers, with particular emphasis on developing controlled-release materials and UV protection solutions. Dr. Tsutsumi is actively engaged in professional societies such as The Society of Polymer Science, Japan, and The Chemical Society of Japan, underscoring his commitment to advancing the field of polymer science.

Author Metrics

ORCID Profile

Scopus Profile

Dr. Tsutsumi’s scholarly work is well-regarded, as evidenced by his citation index of 481 and publication of 32 articles in prominent journals indexed in SCI, Scopus, and other databases. These metrics highlight his significant contributions to the scientific community and underscore his expertise in polymer chemistry and biotechnology.

  • Citations: 583 citations across 456 documents
  • Documents: 35 documents indexed
  • h-index: 15

These metrics reflect Dr. Tsutsumi’s scholarly impact in the field of polymer chemistry and biotechnology. His research contributions are noted across a significant number of documents, contributing to a notable citation count and an h-index that signifies his influence within the academic community.

Education

Dr. Chikara Tsutsumi earned his Doctor of Engineering degree in polymer chemistry from Hiroshima University, Japan, in 2004. His academic background laid the foundation for his subsequent research career focused on biodegradable polymers and their applications in sustainable materials science.

Research Focus

Dr. Tsutsumi’s research is primarily centered around polymer chemistry and organic chemistry, with a specific focus on biodegradable polymers. He is dedicated to exploring practical applications of these materials, including the development of controlled-release technologies and UV protection materials utilizing biodegradable polymers’ unique properties.

Professional Journey

With a career spanning over two decades, Dr. Tsutsumi has made significant strides in advancing the field of polymer science. His journey includes pivotal roles at the National Institute of Technology, Niihama College, where he was promoted to Professor in 2020, reflecting his academic and professional growth in the field.

Honors & Awards

Dr. Tsutsumi has been recognized for his exemplary research contributions with accolades such as the Best Researcher Award, highlighting his impact and leadership in polymer chemistry and biotechnology.

Publications Noted & Contributions

Dr. Tsutsumi has authored numerous publications and holds several patents related to biodegradable polymers, including sustained-release agents and biodegradable polymer films. His research contributions extend to the development of controlled-release materials and UV protection solutions, addressing critical needs in sustainable materials science.

Trial Fabrication of NADH-Dependent Enzymatic Ethanol Biofuel Cell Providing H2 Gas as well as Electricity

  • Journal: Bulletin of the Chemical Society of Japan, 2023, 96(4), pp. 331–338
  • Authors: Yano, J., Suzuki, K., Hashimoto, C., Hayase, N., Kitani, A., and Chikara Tsutsumi
  • Citations: 2
  • Summary: This article likely explores the development and performance of an enzymatic ethanol biofuel cell capable of generating both electricity and hydrogen gas, illustrating Dr. Tsutsumi’s research into sustainable energy technologies.

An environmentally adaptable stereocomplex derived from lactide copolymers with improved UV shielding characteristics based on morphological changes

  • Journal: Reactive and Functional Polymers, 2022, 173, 105148
  • Authors: Chikara Tsutsumi, Susumu Nakayama, Yasuhiro Matsubara, Yuushou Nakayama, Takeshi Shiono
  • Citations: 1
  • Summary: This article discusses a stereocomplex derived from lactide copolymers that exhibits enhanced UV shielding properties due to morphological changes. It highlights Dr. Tsutsumi’s work in polymer chemistry and materials science.

Ethanol Biofuel Cell Utilizing Photo-Excited Flavin-Mediated Oxidation of β-Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Hydrate (NADH) at the Anode and Reduction of H+ Ions at the Cathode

  • Journal: Journal of Electronic Materials, 2020, 49(8), pp. 4637–4641
  • Authors: Yano, J., Suzuki, K., Chikara Tsutsumi, Hayase, N., Kitani, A., and others
  • Citations: 3
  • Summary: This article explores an ethanol biofuel cell utilizing photo-excited flavin-mediated oxidation of NADH at the anode and reduction of H+ ions at the cathode. It showcases Dr. Tsutsumi’s research in bioelectrochemistry and energy conversion technologies.

Synthesis, properties and biodegradation of periodic copolyesters composed of hydroxy acids, ethylene glycol, and terephthalic acid

  • Journal: Polymer Degradation and Stability, 2020, 174, 109095
  • Authors: Nakayama, Y., Yagumo, W., Tanaka, R., Yamano, N., Nakayama, A., and Chikara Tsutsumi
  • Citations: 19
  • Summary: This article investigates the synthesis, properties, and biodegradation characteristics of periodic copolyesters incorporating hydroxy acids, ethylene glycol, and terephthalic acid. It underscores Dr. Tsutsumi’s expertise in sustainable polymer materials.

Impregnation of poly(L-lactide-ran-δ-valerolactone) with essential bark oil using supercritical carbon dioxide

  • Journal: Scientific Reports, 2019, 9(1), 16326
  • Authors: Chikara Tsutsumi, Souta Manabe, Susumu Nakayama, Yuushou Nakayama, Takeshi Shiono
  • Citations: 3
  • Summary: This article discusses the impregnation of poly(L-lactide-ran-δ-valerolactone) with essential bark oil using supercritical carbon dioxide, showcasing applications of biodegradable polymers in functional materials.

Research Timeline

Throughout his career, Dr. Tsutsumi has been actively involved in ongoing research projects focusing on biodegradable polymers and their practical applications. His timeline includes collaborations and projects aimed at advancing controlled-release technologies and exploring novel synthesis methods for biodegradable polymers, such as microwave-assisted synthesis.

Collaborations and Projects

Dr. Tsutsumi collaborates extensively on projects aimed at developing and implementing biodegradable polymers in various applications. These collaborations span research on controlled-release materials, UV protection solutions, and innovative synthesis methods, emphasizing his interdisciplinary approach and commitment to sustainable materials development.