Researcher, Slovak University of Technology, Slovakia
Assoc. Prof. Ján Kruželák, PhD, is an accomplished academic and researcher at the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, specializing in polymer science, particularly rubber and elastomer technology. Since 2017, he has held the position of Associate Professor at the Institute of Natural and Synthetic Polymers, Department of Plastics, Rubber and Fibres. With deep knowledge in vulcanization systems and filler-rubber interface chemistry, his research stands at the intersection of material performance and sustainability. He has authored or co-authored over 75 peer-reviewed articles, and his work has received over 970 citations on Scopus and about 850 on Web of Science, both with an h-index of 14. His expertise and commitment to innovation and education mark him as a significant contributor to his field.
Professional Profile
Scopus Profile
ORCID
🎓 Education
Prof. Kruželák has pursued his entire academic career at the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava. He began with a Bachelor’s degree, then completed his Master’s in 2007. He obtained his PhD and further advanced his research experience through a postdoctoral fellowship. This comprehensive education equipped him with a strong foundation in polymer materials, especially in their chemical processing and application.
💼 Experience
Beginning his academic career as an Assistant Professor in 2012, Prof. Kruželák was promoted to Associate Professor in 2017. Over the years, he has led numerous projects focusing on rubber composites, vulcanization technologies, and biopolymer additives. He has also delivered lectures and supervised over 35 Bachelor’s and Master’s theses, in addition to mentoring PhD candidates. His active role in international conferences and collaborative networks reflects his leadership in research and teaching.
🔬 Research Interests
His research focuses on the formulation, cross-linking, and performance optimization of rubber materials. He studies sulfur and peroxide vulcanization mechanisms, including their interaction with co-agents and bio-based fillers such as kraft lignin and calcium lignosulfonate. Moreover, he explores sustainable solutions for rubber waste reuse and eco-friendly additives, bridging polymer technology and environmental science. His work provides innovative solutions to the rubber industry and academia alike.
📚 Publications Top Notes
Influence of Plasticizers on Cross-Linking Process, Morphology, and Properties of Lignosulfonate-Filled Rubber Compounds
Authors: Ján Kruželák, Michaela Džuganová, Andrea Kvasničáková, Ján Hronkovič, Ivan Hudeč
Journal: Polymers, 2025
This study investigates the role of plasticizers in modifying the cross-link density, dispersion, and morphological characteristics of rubber compounds filled with calcium lignosulfonate. It reveals that plasticizers significantly enhance compatibility between the rubber matrix and the filler, leading to improved elasticity and processing behavior.
Strategy for Reducing Rubber Wear Emissions: The Prospect of Using Calcium Lignosulfonate
Authors: Michaela Džuganová, Radek Stoček, Marek Pöschl, Ján Hronkovič, Jozef Preťo
Journal: Express Polymer Letters, 2024
This paper presents an eco-innovation by proposing calcium lignosulfonate as a sustainable filler to reduce particulate emissions from rubber wear. The study confirms that this biopolymer can decrease tire wear and enhance environmental safety without compromising mechanical strength.
Sulfur and Peroxide Curing of NBR-Based Rubber Compounds Filled with Kraft Lignin and Calcium Lignosulfonate
Authors: Ján Kruželák, Michaela Džuganová, Klaudia Hložeková, Henrich Krump, Ivan Hudeč
Journal: Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2024
This comparative research analyzes sulfur and peroxide curing systems applied to nitrile rubber (NBR) composites with bio-based fillers. It identifies that peroxide systems offer better heat resistance and cross-linking control, while sulfur curing provides higher tensile strength under certain conditions.
The Impact of Surface Roughness on Conformal Cooling Channels for Injection Molding
Authors: Jan Hanzlik, Jiri Vaněk, Vladimír Pata, Ján Kruželák, Martin Bednarik
Journal: Materials, 2024
Though primarily mechanical, this interdisciplinary study examines how varying surface roughness levels affect cooling rates in injection molds. Prof. Kruželák contributed through his polymer insights, especially concerning mold-material interactions and thermal conductivity improvements.
The Electrical Conductivity, EMI Absorption Shielding Performance, Curing Process, and Mechanical Properties of Rubber Composites
Authors: Ján Kruželák, Andrea Kvasničáková, Michaela Džuganová, Ivan Hudeč, Henrich Krump
Journal: Polymers, 2024
This paper explores multifunctional rubber composites engineered for both mechanical durability and electromagnetic shielding. It demonstrates that proper filler selection and optimized curing enhance conductivity and shielding performance, positioning these materials for advanced applications in electronics and automotive sectors.
🔚 Conclusion
Assoc. Prof. Ján Kruželák, PhD, exemplifies scientific excellence through his deep expertise in polymer chemistry, dedication to sustainable material innovation, and academic mentorship. His significant research contributions, reflected in high-impact publications and international collaborations, underline his eligibility for recognition and awards. His work continues to influence the global polymer science community, contributing to both industrial advancements and ecological sustainability.