Sofia Pacheco | Polymer Matrix Composites | Research Excellence Award

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Sofia Pacheco | Polymer Matrix Composites | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Sofia Pacheco at Faculty of Engineering – University of Porto | Portugal

Sofia Pacheco is an early-career researcher in applied physics and biomaterials with a growing focus on biomedical and wound-healing applications. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Physics at the University of Aveiro (2022–2025) and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree at the University of Porto (since September 2025). Her research interests lie at the intersection of physics, materials science, and biomedical engineering, particularly the development and characterization of functional biomaterials for therapeutic use. Sofia is the author of a 2025 peer-reviewed journal article published in Gels titled “Impact of CeO₂-Doped Bioactive Glass on the Properties of CMC/PEG Hydrogels Intended for Wound Treatment,” where she investigated the effects of cerium oxide–doped bioactive glass on hydrogel performance. This work highlights her expertise in hydrogel systems, bioactive materials, and experimental materials characterization. Through multidisciplinary collaboration, she has developed strong analytical and research skills, positioning her as a promising researcher in advanced biomaterials for regenerative and wound care applications.


ORCID

Featured Publication

Wenxia Liu | Polymer Matrix composites | Research Excellence Award

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Wenxia Liu | Polymer Matrix composites | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Wenxia Liu at Qilu University of Technology | China

Liu Wenxia is an Associate researcher at Qilu University of Technology, Jinan, China, specializing in advanced functional and bio-based materials. Her research focuses on hydrogels, aerogels, and nano/micro-structured composite materials, integrating conductive networks, nanocarbons, MXenes, graphene oxide, and metal-ion crosslinking strategies. She develops sustainable materials for applications in wearable and flexible sensors, strain sensing, energy harvesting and storage, EMI shielding, antibacterial systems, and smart packaging. Liu Wenxia has authored 125 Scopus-indexed publications, reflecting strong interdisciplinary contributions across materials science and chemical engineering. Her work has received significant global recognition, with 3,809 citations from 3,031 documents and an h-index of 33.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

4000
3000
2000
1000
0

Citations
3,809

Documents
125

h-index
33

🟦 Citations   🟥 Documents   🟩 h-index


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Featured Publications

Vassilis Kostopoulos | Polymer Matrix Composites | Best Researcher Award

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Vassilis Kostopoulos | Polymer Matrix Composites | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Vassilis Kostopoulos at University Of Patras | Greece

A distinguished scholar in mechanical and aerospace engineering, Professor Vassilis Kostopoulos has made pioneering contributions to the fields of applied mechanics, composite materials, and structural health monitoring. He has served as Professor and former Director of the Applied Mechanics & Vibrations Laboratory (2003–2024) at a leading European university, with visiting appointments at major international institutions, including the University of Delaware (USA) and George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureş (Romania). His expertise spans design, analysis, and optimization of lightweight composite structures, non-destructive evaluation, nano-engineering, aerospace structures under extreme conditions, and additive manufacturing. A key contributor to European and international research programs, he has coordinated or participated in over 85 research projects funded by organizations such as the EU, ESA, EDA, EDF, NSF, and USAF. His extensive academic output includes 345 publications, 301 conference presentations, 7 books, 21 book chapters, and numerous technical reports, achieving 6,304 citations from 5,234 documents with an h-index of 40. He has supervised 35 Ph.D. and 185 M.Sc. theses and co-organized 61 international conferences. His leadership roles include membership in the Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking, Advisory Council for Aviation Research and Innovation in Europe (ACARE), and the European Society for Composite Materials (ESCM), where he also served as President. He is an editorial board member for several international journals and an evaluator for research programs across Europe. His research achievements have been recognized with multiple international awards, including the 1st Senior Scientist Award at TRA-VISIONS 2020, ESA Aerospace Challenge distinctions, and Innovation Awards in aerospace and space engineering, reflecting his enduring impact on advanced materials and aeronautical research.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | GoogleScholar 

Featured Publications 

Attia, S., Eleftheriou, P., Xeni, F., Morlot, R., Ménézo, C., Kostopoulos, V., Betsi, M., & others. (2017). Overview and future challenges of nearly zero energy buildings (nZEB) design in Southern Europe. Energy and Buildings, 155, 439–458.

Kostopoulos, V., Baltopoulos, A., Karapappas, P., Vavouliotis, A., & Paipetis, A. (2010). Impact and after-impact properties of carbon fibre reinforced composites enhanced with multi-wall carbon nanotubes. Composites Science and Technology, 70(4), 553–563.

Loutas, T. H., Roulias, D., Pauly, E., & Kostopoulos, V. (2011). The combined use of vibration, acoustic emission and oil debris on-line monitoring towards a more effective condition monitoring of rotating machinery. Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing, 25(4), 1339–1352.

Karapappas, P., Vavouliotis, A., Tsotra, P., Kostopoulos, V., & Paipetis, A. (2009). Enhanced fracture properties of carbon reinforced composites by the addition of multi-wall carbon nanotubes. Journal of Composite Materials, 43(9), 977–985.

Loutas, T. H., Sotiriades, G., Kalaitzoglou, I., & Kostopoulos, V. (2009). Condition monitoring of a single-stage gearbox with artificially induced gear cracks utilizing on-line vibration and acoustic emission measurements. Applied Acoustics, 70(9), 1148–1159.

Vishnu Vardhan | Polymer-Matrix composites | Best Researcher Award

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Vishnu Vardhan | Polymer-Matrix composites | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Vishnu Vardhan, Agni College of Technology, India.

S. Vishnu Vardhan is a dedicated civil engineer and academician with expertise in infrastructure projects, structural design, and drafting. With over five years of experience, including three years in teaching and two years in industry, he has contributed significantly to both academia and civil engineering practices. He is a Registered Engineer Grade-II with C.M.D.A. and currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Civil Engineering Department at Agni College of Technology. His passion for quality control, construction management, and research is evident through his publications, patents, and contributions to various professional organizations. 🚧📖

Publication Profiles

Orcid

Education & Experience 🎓💼

  • Education:

    • M.E. (Construction Engineering & Management) – M.S.E.C., Anna University (2018) 🎓
    • B.E. (Civil Engineering) – T.J.S.E.C., Anna University (2016) 🏗️

  • Professional Experience:

    • Assistant Professor – Agni College of Technology (2021 – Present) 🎓
    • Quality Control & Assurance Engineer – CREW PVT LTD (2019 – 2021) 🔬
    • Design & Draft Engineer – SLN Builders (2018 – 2019) 🏠
    • Civil Engineer – MR Builders PVT LTD (2016 – 2016) 👷‍♂️

Summary Suitability

S. Vishnu Vardhan is a distinguished Civil Engineer and Assistant Professor at Agni College of Technology, recognized for his exceptional contributions to research, innovation, and quality control in civil engineering. His outstanding work in construction materials, structural analysis, and sustainable engineering solutions makes him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a unique blend of academic excellence and industry expertise, he has successfully advanced research in quality control, infrastructure projects, and cutting-edge construction technologies.

Professional Development  📚🔍

S. Vishnu Vardhan has actively engaged in teaching, research, and industry collaborations to enhance his expertise in civil engineering. As an Assistant Professor, he has guided students in subjects such as Structural Analysis, Soil Mechanics, Surveying, and Estimation. His contributions extend to being a departmental coordinator in various roles, including placement, alumni, and examinations. He has organized and attended conferences, workshops, and faculty development programs to stay updated with the latest trends in construction and design. His commitment to excellence is reflected in his Best Faculty Awards and completion of NPTEL Research Methodology Course with an Elite+Silver grade. 🎖️🏗️

Research Focus

S. Vishnu Vardhan’s research interests center on Quality Control & Assurance in Construction, Sustainable Building Materials, and Innovative Structural Engineering Techniques. His work explores ultrasonic concrete mixing technology, self-healing concrete, and prefabricated hollow brick panels for roofing. He has presented papers on wastewater treatment using anaerobic digesters and evacuation patterns in high-rise buildings. His patent on Ultrasonic Concrete Mixer showcases his commitment to enhancing construction efficiency. With a strong focus on sustainability and structural innovations, he contributes to the advancement of smart and eco-friendly construction methodologies. 🏗️🌱

Awards & Honors 🏆🎖

  • Best Faculty Award (AY 2021-22 & AY 2022-23) 🏅
  • Elite + Silver Certification in NPTEL Research Methodology 📜
  • 1st Place in NIIT Wizard Search Contest 🥇
  • Secured “A” Grade in NIIT@school Program 🏆
  • Multiple awards in Kabbadi, Throw Ball, Quiz, and Group Song Competitions 🏅🏀
  • Active Member of Indian Concrete Institute (ICI), ASCE, and ICE 🏗️

Publications Top Noted

  • Quality Control in Construction 🏗️ |  Year: 2017
  • Ultrasonic Concrete Mixer 🛠️ |  2023

Scott Arnold | Fiber Reinforced Polymer | Excellence in Research

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Scott Arnold | Fiber Reinforced Polymer | Excellence in Research

Mr. Scott Arnold , Fyfe a division of Henkel Corporation, United States.

Publication profile

Googlesholar

🎓 Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in Structural Engineering, University of California, San Diego.

💼 Experience:

  • Director of Applications Engineering, FyfeFRP, LLC (Henkel Corporation) (1994 – Present).
  • Developed structural applications, FRP validation testing, and managed engineering teams.
  • Worked alongside Ed Fyfe, contributing to the company’s $115M acquisition by Aegion Corporation.

Suitability for The Award

Scott F. Arnold, PE is highly suitable for an Excellence in Research award based on his substantial contributions to structural engineering, specifically in advancing the field of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) systems. His pioneering work in developing and applying FRP materials has had a lasting impact on infrastructure rehabilitation and safety

Professional Development (💼🔬)

Research Focus 🧫🧬

Awards and Honors (🏆🎖️)

🏆 2014 Chairman’s Award for Innovation – Aegion Corporation
🎶 2021 Credited for Additional Lyrics – “Powder Day” and “Problems for Another Day”
📚 2007 Published “Oso the Bear” – Bilingual children’s picture book
🎨 1988 Grand Prize Winner – Dremel Creative Project Scholarship Contest
🎨 1988 Blue Ribbon & Best of Show – California State Fair (Soapstone Sculpture)

Publication 

  • Seismic performance of non-ductile RC frames with brick infill – PB Shing, A Stavridis, I Koutromanos, K Willam, B Blackard, et al. Improving the Seismic Performance of Existing Buildings and Other Structures – 45 citations, 2009 📊
  • Repair of pipes – S Arnold, T Jimenez, N DeLetto. US Patent 10,001,238 – 10 citations, 2018 🛠️
  • High-strength, watertight pipe lining – S Arnold, J Whitledge, R Ortiz. US Patent 10,197,209 – 7 citations, 2019 🚰
  • Cure behavior of epoxies used for CFRP repair of pipelines – M Engindeniz, RP Ojdrovic, S Arnold, T Jimenez. Pipelines 2014: From Underground to the Forefront of Innovation – 7 citations, 2014 🧪
  • Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) as a long term repair solution – B Sleeper, S Arnold, A Pridmore, H Carr. Pipelines 2010: Climbing New Peaks to Infrastructure Reliability – 6 citations, 2010 🏗️
  • Proper tools and techniques for the inspection, structural observation, and field quality control of hand-applied fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) pipeline rehabilitation systems – P Wasco, TJ Gerard, AJ Wagner, SF Arnold. Pipelines 2016 – 5 citations, 2016 🔧
  • System and method of reinforcing a column positioned proximate a blocking structure – SF Arnold. US Patent 9,085,898 – 5 citations, 2015 🚧
  • B31.1 Compliant Design of CFRP Buried Piping Systems – N Stoeva, TM Adams, T Jimenez, S Arnold, J Uhland. Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference – 4 citations, 2015 🔍