Mr Adolor David Aiyeki | Additive Manufacturing of Lunar Regolith Simulant | Best Paper Award

Mr Adolor David Aiyeki | Additive Manufacturing of Lunar Regolith Simulant | Best Paper Award

PhD Student, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Russia

Adolor David Aiyeki is an emerging researcher and engineer dedicated to the advancement of sustainable manufacturing technologies for both Earth and extraterrestrial environments. He is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Mathematics and Mechanics at the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Russia. Adolor’s journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Benin, Nigeria, and a Master’s in Advanced Manufacturing from Skoltech. A natural problem solver and systems thinker, he integrates hands-on industry experience with high-level academic research. He has led automation and mechanical engineering projects in Nigeria and contributed to sustainability education as a UN SDG Action Campaign volunteer. Adolor’s work focuses on additive manufacturing of lunar regolith for space construction, and he has received multiple honors for academic excellence and innovation. Driven by curiosity, sustainability, and global impact, he aspires to revolutionize the future of space-based manufacturing and green energy systems through innovative material research.

Profile

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🎓 Education

Adolor David Aiyeki has a solid academic background in mechanical engineering and advanced manufacturing. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Benin, Nigeria, where he conducted research on biomass gasifiers. He further pursued a Master of Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technologies at the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Russia, with a thesis on using lunar regolith for in-situ space construction through Digital Light Processing (DLP). His curriculum included advanced topics in finite element analysis, additive manufacturing, composite materials, and product lifecycle management (PLM). Currently, Adolor is a Ph.D. candidate in Mathematics and Mechanics at Skoltech, investigating supercritical CO₂ processing for photopolymer-based ceramic 3D printing. His interdisciplinary education spans core mechanical engineering, computational modeling, sustainability, and futuristic space applications, empowering him with the theoretical foundation and experimental skills to drive innovation at the intersection of energy, material science, and manufacturing.

💼 Experience 

Adolor’s professional experience spans engineering, education, and sustainability. He served as an Assistant Home Automation Engineer at Hometronix Nigeria, where he developed and installed smart control systems for residential and commercial clients. His efforts improved project efficiency and earned a high client satisfaction rate. At Friday Omoragbon & Sons Ltd., he worked as a Mechanical Engineer, supervising construction and pipeline installations. Earlier, as an intern at the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency and Autogenius Royal Motors, he gained valuable hands-on experience in power systems and automotive diagnostics. In addition, Adolor worked as a science teacher, inspiring students in mathematics, physics, and basic technology. His long-term volunteer work with the UN SDG Action Campaign showcases his passion for advocacy, where he led youth engagement programs and sustainable development initiatives. These multifaceted roles reflect his adaptability, leadership, and technical skills across diverse sectors from field engineering to global awareness.

🏅 Awards and Honors 

Adolor David Aiyeki has been widely recognized for his academic excellence and leadership potential. At Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, he received the Scholarship for Development and Academic Excellence, and his Master’s thesis earned the Best Research Thesis Award (2024). His undergraduate achievements were supported by the Matthew Okpebholo Foundation Scholarship and the Agbami Medical and Engineering Professionals Scholarship, spanning 2014–2017. His talent in science was evident early on, winning a Gold Medal at the Science Talent Search Innovation Championship and a Silver Medal in the STAN National Competition. He also graduated as the Best Science Student from Blessed Saint Paul High School in 2009. These awards reflect not only Adolor’s academic rigor but also his commitment to social impact and scientific innovation. With each honor, his trajectory affirms his position as a promising thought leader in sustainable energy, materials research, and space engineering.

🔬 Research Focus 

Adolor’s research revolves around advanced additive manufacturing technologies and their applications in sustainable and extraterrestrial construction. His Master’s research focused on “Improved Additive Manufacturing of Lunar Regolith Simulant via Digital Light Processing”, a breakthrough concept for in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) on the Moon. This work aims to reduce dependence on Earth-bound materials for space missions by turning lunar soil into usable construction materials using photopolymerization techniques. Currently, his Ph.D. project explores the use of supercritical CO₂ in ceramic additive manufacturing, enhancing material strength and resolution. His approach is deeply interdisciplinary, integrating fluid dynamics, multiphase flow modeling, and material characterization. The dual focus on green manufacturing and space resource utilization places Adolor’s research at the forefront of next-gen engineering. His work has implications for sustainable infrastructure on Earth and future Moon or Mars colonization projects, contributing to the growing field of space engineering and planetary sustainability.

📚 Publication

📘 Improved Additive Manufacturing of Lunar Regolith Simulant via Digital Light Processing for In-Situ Resource Utilization on the Moon 🌕🖨️🧪

Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss | Additive Manufacturing | Best Innovation Award

Prof Dr Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss | Additive Manufacturing | Best Innovation Award

Professor, Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss is a distinguished expert in materials science and engineering, specializing in additive manufacturing. He is currently a Full Professor and Head of the Additive Manufacturing Laboratory at Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia. With extensive experience in selective laser melting, he has contributed significantly to the fields of materials joining and sustainable manufacturing. Prashanth holds a PhD from the Technical University of Dresden and has held various prestigious positions globally, including guest professorships in Europe and Asia. His research focuses on the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of advanced materials, particularly aluminum alloys. A dedicated educator, he emphasizes the integration of sustainability in manufacturing processes. Prashanth is also actively involved in editorial work for multiple scientific journals and is committed to advancing knowledge in his field.

Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Academic Background:
    • PhD in Materials Science and Engineering with a focus on Selective Laser Melting, supported by a strong educational foundation from prestigious institutions.
  2. Fellowships and Awards:
    • Recipient of notable fellowships and awards, including the Leibniz Fellowship and the S.K. Tamotia Award, showcasing recognition in the field of materials science.
  3. Leadership in Additive Manufacturing:
    • Current position as Full Professor and Head of the Additive Manufacturing Laboratory at Tallinn University of Technology highlights leadership and innovation in this rapidly evolving field.
  4. Broad Research Experience:
    • Over a decade of research in various domains including metal matrix composites, sustainable manufacturing, and tribology, contributing to a diverse and impactful body of work.
  5. Editorial Contributions:
    • Active involvement as an editor and board member for numerous high-impact journals indicates a commitment to advancing knowledge and quality in materials science.
  6. International Collaboration:
    • Extensive experience as a visiting professor in multiple countries, fostering global research collaboration and knowledge exchange.
  7. Innovative Research Areas:
    • Focus on cutting-edge topics such as circular economy, sustainable materials, and advanced additive manufacturing techniques positions his work at the forefront of current challenges in materials science.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Commercial Application of Research:
    • While there is significant academic output, enhancing the translation of research findings into practical applications and collaborations with industry could further bolster impact.
  2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
    • Exploring partnerships beyond materials science, such as with environmental science or economics, could broaden the scope and applicability of his research on sustainability.
  3. Engagement in Public Awareness:
    • Increasing efforts in public engagement and education about the implications of his research on sustainability and manufacturing could raise awareness and support for innovation.
  4. Funding Acquisition:
    • While active in research, targeting larger grants or funding opportunities for innovative projects could expand the reach and resources available for groundbreaking work.

Education

Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss earned his PhD in Materials Science and Engineering from the Technical University of Dresden, Germany, focusing on selective laser melting and the properties of Al-12Si alloy. He completed his Master of Technology (M. Tech.) in Materials Joining from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, India. Prior to this, he obtained his Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Metallurgical Engineering from the Government College of Engineering, Salem, India. His academic journey was supported by several prestigious fellowships, including the Leibniz Fellowship and the DAAD Fellowship, which allowed him to conduct research and dissertation work in Germany. This robust educational background equips him with a comprehensive understanding of materials science, enabling him to contribute significantly to research and academia.

Experience

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss has extensive experience in academia and research. Currently, he serves as a Full Professor and Head of the Additive Manufacturing Laboratory at Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia. His career includes roles as an Adjunct Professor at Vellore Institute of Technology in India and various visiting professorships across Europe and Asia. He has previously held positions as an Associate Professor in Additive Manufacturing at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and as a Senior Scientist at the Erich Schmid Institute of Materials Science in Austria. His industrial experience includes R&D roles at Sandvik AB in Sweden and the Helmholtz Center Berlin. Prashanth has contributed to numerous research projects and has been involved in high-profile international collaborations, significantly advancing the field of additive manufacturing and materials science.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss has received numerous awards recognizing his contributions to materials science and engineering. He was honored as a Fellow of the International Association of Advanced Materials in July 2023 and received the S.K. Tamotia Award for research in aluminum metallurgy from the Indian Institute of Metals in August 2020. His exceptional work in additive manufacturing earned him the Distinguished Scientist award from the International Research Council in January 2020. In 2018, he received the Young Scientist Award at the International Symposium on Metastable, Amorphous and Nanostructure Materials in Rome. Additionally, he was awarded the IAAM Scientist Medal in 2017. His editorial contributions have also been recognized, with certificates for outstanding reviewing from various reputable journals. These accolades reflect his dedication to advancing knowledge and research in his field.

Research Focus

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss focuses on advancing materials science through sustainable manufacturing practices and innovative technologies. His primary research areas include additive manufacturing, particularly selective laser melting, powder metallurgy, and metal matrix composites. He investigates the mechanical, tribological, and corrosion properties of materials, emphasizing the development of lightweight alloys and meta-stable materials. Prashanth is dedicated to exploring the circular economy in manufacturing, integrating sustainability into the design and production of materials. His research also encompasses the behavior of nano-crystalline materials, bulk metallic glasses, and the effects of severe plastic deformation. By bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical applications, he aims to enhance the performance and reliability of advanced materials in various industries, contributing significantly to the evolution of modern manufacturing techniques.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Additive manufacturing processes: Selective laser melting, electron beam melting and binder jetting—Selection guidelines 📄
  2. Microstructure and mechanical properties of Al–12Si produced by selective laser melting: Effect of heat treatment 🛠️
  3. Mechanical behavior of selective laser melted 316L stainless steel 🧪
  4. Formation of metastable cellular microstructures in selective laser melted alloys 🏗️
  5. Simultaneous enhancements of strength and toughness in an Al-12Si alloy synthesized using selective laser melting 💪
  6. Is the energy density a reliable parameter for materials synthesis by selective laser melting? 🔋
  7. Defining the tensile properties of Al-12Si parts produced by selective laser melting 🧬
  8. Fabrication of Fe-based bulk metallic glass by selective laser melting: A parameter study 📊
  9. Mechanical properties of Al-based metal matrix composites reinforced with Zr-based glassy particles produced by powder metallurgy 🏆
  10. Mechanical behavior of porous commercially pure Ti and Ti–TiB composite materials manufactured by selective laser melting 🦾

Conclusion

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss stands out as a leading figure in the field of materials science and additive manufacturing, demonstrated by his impressive academic credentials, significant contributions to research, and active role in editorial duties. His focus on innovative and sustainable materials positions him well for the Research for Best Innovation Award. By enhancing the commercial applicability of his work and pursuing interdisciplinary collaborations, he can further maximize his impact in the field. His recognition as a Fellow of the International Association of Advanced Materials and various other accolades solidify his reputation as a deserving candidate for this prestigious award.