Prof. Ziqu Ouyang | Coal-Fired Power | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China

Professor Ouyang Ziqu is a distinguished Doctor of Engineering and a leading researcher at the Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). He is widely recognized for his pioneering work in clean and efficient coal combustion, new combustion theories, and emission control technologies. As an excellent member of the Youth Promotion Association of CAS, Professor Ouyang plays a key role in driving scientific innovation and sustainable energy solutions in China and globally.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

Education

Professor Ouyang began his academic journey at the prestigious University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he pursued advanced studies in engineering thermophysics. From 2009 to 2014, he undertook rigorous doctoral research, which laid a strong foundation for his future contributions to combustion science and environmental engineering. His education at one of China’s foremost institutions prepared him to become a thought leader in the energy research landscape.

Experience

Following the completion of his doctorate in 2014, Professor Ouyang embarked on a decade-long career at the Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, CAS. He advanced rapidly through academic ranks—beginning as an assistant professor, then associate professor, and eventually achieving full professorship. Throughout this progression, he has consistently demonstrated leadership in research projects, mentoring young scholars, and collaborating across interdisciplinary teams to address critical energy and environmental challenges.

Research Focus

Professor Ouyang has dedicated his career to advancing technologies that enhance energy efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. His primary research focuses on clean coal combustion technology, novel combustion mechanisms, and integrated pollutant emission control. His work has provided significant breakthroughs in understanding and improving the thermodynamics of coal-based energy systems. These contributions are vital for energy sustainability and climate change mitigation, particularly in regions where coal remains a dominant energy source.

Awards & Honors

Professor Ouyang’s groundbreaking work has earned him multiple prestigious accolades. He received the Outstanding Scientific and Technological Achievement Award from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, recognizing his high-impact innovations in combustion technology. Additionally, he was awarded the First Prize of Science and Technology from the Coal Industry Association for his contributions to energy efficiency and emission control. These honors reflect his prominent status in the field and his dedication to research that drives real-world applications.

Publication Top Notes

Experimental Study on Peak Shaving Operations for Efficient Pulverized Coal Combustion and Working Fluid Coordination
Journal: Fuel
Year: 2026
Summary: This study investigates the effects of peak shaving operations on pulverized coal combustion efficiency and working fluid coordination. The experimental results demonstrate how adjusting load and thermal input can stabilize combustion performance under fluctuating grid demands. This research supports dynamic power system integration while maintaining high combustion efficiency.

Corrigendum to: ‘Wide-load Combustion Characteristics of Lean Coal Tangential Preheating Combustion’ [Energy 323 (2025) 135845]
Journal: Energy
Year: 2025
Summary: This corrigendum addresses corrections to a previously published study on wide-load combustion in tangential preheating systems for lean coal. The clarification further emphasizes the system’s performance across variable load conditions and enhances the data accuracy for future modeling and industrial application.

Exploration on Feasibility of Novel Purification-Combustion Technology in Activation, High-Efficiency Combustion and NOx Emission Reduction of Typical Low-Quality Carbonaceous Fuels
Journal: Journal of the Energy Institute
Year: 2025
Summary: This article evaluates a novel purification-combustion technology designed to enhance combustion efficiency and significantly reduce NOx emissions from low-quality fuels. Through activation treatment and staged combustion, the study showcases improved burnout rates and emission performance, providing a pathway for sustainable use of inferior coals.

Experimental Study on Two-Stage Modification, Combustion and NOx Emission Characteristics of Pulverized Coal in a Purification-Combustion Reaction System
Journal: Journal of Thermal Science
Year: 2025
Summary: This research explores a two-stage modification system applied to pulverized coal before combustion. Results reveal improved reactivity and reduced NOx emissions under optimized conditions. The paper provides a detailed reaction mechanism analysis and supports industrial application in retrofitting conventional coal-fired units.

Study on Combustion and NOx Emission Characteristics of Low-Quality Coal with Wide Load Based on Fuel Modification
Journal: Energies (Open Access)
Year: 2025
Summary: Focused on the wide-load combustion behavior of low-quality coal, this open-access study employs fuel modification techniques to maintain combustion stability and minimize NOx formation. It offers a comprehensive examination of the impacts of load variability on thermal performance and environmental output, contributing to flexible power generation strategies.

Wide-load Combustion Characteristics of Lean Coal Tangential Preheating Combustion
Journal: Energy
Year: 2025
Summary: This foundational study introduces a tangential preheating combustion system for lean coal, allowing efficient and stable operation across a broad load range. The research details flame structure, heat transfer patterns, and emission dynamics, making it a valuable reference for scalable clean-coal technology development.

Conclusion

Professor Ouyang Ziqu exemplifies the ideals of scientific innovation, academic excellence, and national service. His work in clean combustion and environmental protection stands at the intersection of cutting-edge research and pressing societal needs. Through his deep commitment to cleaner energy technologies, he contributes to China’s and the world’s sustainable development goals. With a strong academic record, significant real-world impact, and national-level recognitions, Professor Ouyang is a worthy candidate for this prestigious award.