Galder Kortaberria | Polymeric materials | Best Review Paper Award

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Prof. Dr. Galder Kortaberria | Polymeric materials | Best Review Paper Award

Professor, University of the Basque Country, Spain

Dr. Galder Kortaberria Altzerreka is a distinguished Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU). Born on March 25, 1975, he has established himself as a leading expert in polymer science, particularly in the development and characterization of nanostructured thermosetting systems and biopolymers. His doctoral research focused on the simultaneous analysis of curing processes in thermoset matrices using infrared spectroscopy and impedance measurements. Over the years, Dr. Kortaberria has contributed significantly to the field through numerous publications and collaborations with international research institutions. His work has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of molecular dynamics, dielectric spectroscopy, and the development of sustainable polymeric materials. In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed as a Full Professor in April 2024.

Professional Profile

Education 

Dr. Kortaberria completed his undergraduate studies in Chemical Sciences at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) in June 1998. He pursued his doctoral studies at the same institution, earning his Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences in April 2004. His doctoral thesis, titled “Simultaneous Analysis by IR with Optical Fibers and Impedances of Curing Processes of Thermoset Matrices Modified with Thermoplastics,” was supervised by Dr. Iñaki Bixintxo Mondragón Egaña. This research laid the foundation for his future work in polymer science, focusing on the characterization and development of advanced polymeric materials. Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Kortaberria has demonstrated a strong commitment to research and education, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in his field.

Experience 

Dr. Kortaberria’s academic career began in 2002 as an interim lecturer at the Polytechnic University School (UPV). He held various teaching positions, including Associate Professor and Interim Lecturer, at different faculties within UPV/EHU. In June 2011, he was appointed as an Associate Professor at the School of Engineering of Gipuzkoa, where he continued to advance his research and teaching activities. His dedication and contributions led to his promotion to Full Professor in April 2024, as documented in the official state bulletin (BOE-A-2024-6876). Throughout his career, Dr. Kortaberria has been actively involved in research projects, focusing on polymer science, nanotechnology, and sustainable materials. His extensive experience in both academia and research has made him a respected figure in his field.

Research Focus 

Dr. Kortaberria’s research primarily centers on the development and characterization of advanced polymeric materials. His work involves the use of dielectric spectroscopy, molecular dynamics, and infrared spectroscopy to study the curing processes and properties of thermoset matrices modified with thermoplastics. He has a keen interest in biopolymers and nanocomposites, exploring their potential in creating sustainable and high-performance materials. His research has led to significant advancements in understanding the molecular behavior of polymers and the development of materials with tailored properties for various applications. Through collaborations with international research institutions, Dr. Kortaberria continues to contribute to the field of polymer science, pushing the boundaries of material innovation.

Publication Top Notes:

Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers based on polycarbonate diols with different soft segment molecular weight and chemical structure: Mechanical and thermal properties
Polymer Engineering & Science, 2008
This study investigates the mechanical and thermal properties of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers synthesized from polycarbonate diols with varying molecular weights and chemical structures. The research provides insights into how these variations affect the performance of the resulting materials.

Modification of montmorillonite with cationic surfactants. Thermal and chemical analysis including CEC determination
Applied Clay Science, 2008
The paper explores the modification of montmorillonite clay using cationic surfactants. It includes thermal and chemical analyses, as well as cation exchange capacity (CEC) determination, to understand the effects of modification on the clay’s properties.

Nanostructured thermosetting systems by modification with epoxidized styrene−butadiene star block copolymers. Effect of epoxidation degree
Macromolecules, 2006
This research focuses on the development of nanostructured thermosetting systems by incorporating epoxidized styrene-butadiene star block copolymers. The study examines how the degree of epoxidation influences the morphology and properties of the resulting materials.

Micro- or nanoseparated phases in thermoset blends of an epoxy resin and PEO–PPO–PEO triblock copolymer
Polymer, 2005
The article investigates the phase separation behavior in thermoset blends composed of epoxy resin and PEO–PPO–PEO triblock copolymers. The findings contribute to the understanding of micro- and nanostructure formation in polymer blends.

Structure–property relationships of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers based on polycarbonate diols
Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2008
This publication examines the relationship between the structure of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers and their mechanical properties. The study provides valuable information for designing materials with specific performance characteristics.

 New poly(itaconate)s with bulky pendant groups as candidates for “all-polymer” dielectrics
Authors: Galder Kortaberria Altzerreka et al.
Journal: Reactive and Functional Polymers, Vol. 140, 2019, pp. 1–13.
Summary: The paper introduces novel poly(itaconate)s featuring bulky pendant groups, evaluating their suitability as all-polymer dielectrics, which are crucial for the development of flexible electronic devices.

 

Synthesis of new poly(itaconate)s containing nitrile groups as high dipolar moment entities for the development of dipolar glass polymers with increased dielectric constant. Thermal and dielectric characterization
Authors: Galder Kortaberria Altzerreka et al.
Journal: European Polymer Journal, Vol. 114, 2019, pp. 19–31.
Summary: This study focuses on synthesizing poly(itaconate)s with nitrile groups to enhance dielectric constants, contributing to the advancement of materials for high-performance electronic applications.

 

 Biocomposites with increased dielectric constant based on chitosan and nitrile-modified cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Galder Kortaberria Altzerreka et al.
Journal: Carbohydrate Polymers, Vol. 199, 2018, pp. 20–30.
Summary: The research presents biocomposites combining chitosan and nitrile-modified cellulose nanocrystals, resulting in materials with enhanced dielectric properties suitable for sustainable electronic applications.

Polyitaconates: A New Family of “all-Polymer” Dielectrics
Authors: Galder Kortaberria Altzerreka et al.
Journal: ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, Vol. 10, No. 44, 2018, pp. 38476–38492.
Summary: This paper introduces polyitaconates as a new class of all-polymer dielectrics, discussing their synthesis, properties, and potential applications in flexible electronics.

Improving the performance of chitosan in the synthesis and stabilization of gold nanoparticles
Authors: Galder Kortaberria Altzerreka et al.
Journal: European Polymer Journal, Vol. 68, 2015, pp. 419–431.
Summary: The study explores methods to enhance chitosan’s effectiveness in synthesizing and stabilizing gold nanoparticles, contributing to the development of biocompatible nanomaterials.

Viktoriia Shtefan | Corrosion | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr Viktoriia Shtefan | Corrosion | Best Academic Researcher Award

Academic researcher , Leibniz-Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (IFW Dresden) , Germany

Professor Dr. Viktoriia Shtefan is an internationally recognized expert in technical electrochemistry, with over two decades of academic and research experience spanning Ukraine and Germany. She holds the position of academic researcher at the Leibniz-Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (IFW Dresden), while also leading the Department of Technical Electrochemistry at NTU “KhPI” in Ukraine. With a strong background in corrosion science, metallic glasses, and electrochemical coatings, Dr. Shtefan’s work is pivotal in advancing sustainable materials for energy, biomedical, and industrial applications. Her career includes prestigious fellowships, leadership in DFG-funded projects, and contributions to international collaborations. As a Ukrainian refugee scholar, she has also been a recipient of multiple mobility and support grants. Her prolific research output includes journal articles, book chapters, and a patent, reflecting both scientific depth and practical impact.

Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Dr. Viktoriia Shtefan began her academic journey at NTU “KhPI” in Kharkiv, Ukraine, where she earned her Bachelor’s (1999) and Master’s (2001) degrees in Chemical Engineering with a focus on Technical Electrochemistry. Her early research focused on hydrogenation in carbon steels and electrochemical impedance. She pursued her PhD (2000–2005), investigating radical ion salt synthesis and earned her Doctor of Engineering Sciences (2019) with a dissertation on molybdenum- and tungsten-based electrochemical coatings. Throughout her academic development, she has demonstrated a sustained commitment to corrosion science, surface chemistry, and the development of functional materials. Her graduate and postgraduate studies were supervised by renowned electrochemists and included training in potentimetric titration, microstructure analysis, and electrochemical process control. These qualifications laid the foundation for her multidisciplinary research that bridges electrochemistry, materials science, and industrial applications.

💼 Experience

Prof. Shtefan’s career trajectory spans teaching, research, leadership, and international collaboration. She has served as Assistant, Associate Professor, and later Full Professor at the Department of Technical Electrochemistry, NTU “KhPI” (2004–2024), where she led courses on corrosion, rare metals, catalysis, and nanomaterials. In 2024, she became Head of the Department. Internationally, she has held guest scientist roles at IFW Dresden under VolkswagenStiftung and DFG-funded projects, focusing on corrosion-resistant materials and biocompatibility of metallic glasses. Since 2023, she has been involved in advanced electrochemical projects in Germany, including the design of nanostructured electrodes for green hydrogen evolution. Her industrial experience includes internships in Spain and with Ukrainian R&D institutions. She also led a budget project focused on anti-corrosion strategies for nuclear power applications. Her diverse roles reflect an ability to integrate research, education, and innovation at the intersection of academia and industry.

🔍 Research Focus

Dr. Viktoriia Shtefan’s research revolves around corrosion science, electrochemical surface treatment, and the development of functional coatings for advanced industrial applications. Her specialization includes the nanostructuring of metallic glasses, electrochemical dealloying, and environmentally friendly surface protection technologies. Her work aims to improve the longevity and performance of materials exposed to aggressive environments, such as in nuclear reactors, biomedical implants, and hydrogen production. She has explored the interplay between microstructure and corrosion behavior using advanced surface and spectroscopic techniques. Current research projects involve developing sustainable coatings using molybdenum, tungsten, and chromium oxide composites, with implications for both biocompatibility and high-temperature corrosion resistance. Her interdisciplinary approach blends electrochemistry, metallurgy, and nanotechnology, and she has secured national and international grants. Through numerous collaborations and publications, she contributes to the transition toward corrosion-resistant, eco-conscious, and high-performance engineering materials.

📚 Publication top Notes

 

 

Yao Chen | Composites Award | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Yao Chen | Composites Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof Yao Chen, Soochow University, China

Yao Chen is a distinguished Professor at Soochow University, renowned for his contributions to materials science. He graduated with a Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering from Beihang University, China, in 2003. His postdoctoral research took place at the Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Florida International University, USA, from 2004-2008, followed by a JSPS Fellowship at Osaka University, Japan, from 2008 to 2010. His research focuses on advanced composite materials, particularly metallic and ceramic matrix composites reinforced with nanomaterials. He has published over 120 peer-reviewed papers and received several prestigious awards, including the First Prize in Natural Science from the Ministry of Education, China.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Yao Chen completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering at Beihang University, China, in 2003. Following this, he embarked on postdoctoral research at the Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Florida International University, USA, from 2004 to 2008. His research during this period laid a strong foundation in materials science, particularly in the development of advanced composite materials. In 2008, he was awarded the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship and conducted further research at Osaka University, Japan, until 2010. His extensive education and research experience have significantly contributed to his expertise in nanomaterial reinforcement and advanced composite coatings.

Experience 

Yao Chen’s professional journey began with a Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering from Beihang University, China, in 2003. He then engaged in postdoctoral research at the Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Florida International University, USA, from 2004 to 2008. From 2008 to 2010, he served as a JSPS Postdoctoral Fellow at Osaka University, Japan. In 2010, he joined Soochow University as a Professor, where he has been leading research in advanced composite materials. His work focuses on the synthesis and application of graphene-based materials, metallic/ceramic matrix composites, and advanced composite coatings. He has published over 120 peer-reviewed research papers and received numerous accolades for his contributions.

Research Focus 

Yao Chen’s research focuses on developing advanced composite materials. His main interests include metallic and ceramic matrix composites reinforced with one-dimensional and two-dimensional nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, and hexagonal BN nanotubes and nanoplatelets. He is also deeply involved in the synthesis and application of graphene-based materials, aiming to enhance their properties for various applications. Another key area of his research is advanced composite coatings, where he explores innovative techniques for improving their performance. His work contributes significantly to materials science, offering new insights and advancements in nanomaterial reinforcement and composite coatings.

Publication Top Notes

A tough graphene nanosheet/hydroxyapatite composite with improved in vitro biocompatibility 🧪

Tribological behavior of plasma-sprayed carbon nanotube-reinforced hydroxyapatite coating in physiological solution 🩺

Tensile properties of carbon nanotube reinforced aluminum nanocomposite fabricated by plasma spray forming 🛠️

Carbon nanotube reinforced hydroxyapatite composite coatings produced through laser surface alloying 🛡️

3D printing graphene-aluminum nanocomposites 🖨️

Multiscale wear of plasma-sprayed carbon-nanotube-reinforced aluminum oxide nanocomposite coating 🔧