Jan Kruzelak | Polymer | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jan Kruzelak | Polymer | Best Researcher Award

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.

Baoling Jia | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Baoling Jia | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer, Lanzhou University of Technology, China

Baoling Jia is a dedicated lecturer and PhD student at Lanzhou University of Technology, known for her innovative contributions to biomedical materials research. She specializes in the development and modeling of microneedle (MN) systems designed for enhanced transdermal drug delivery and biosensing. Through interdisciplinary research that bridges materials science and biomedical engineering, Jia is advancing medical technology with practical, patient-friendly solutions. Her work is characterized by precision, sustainability, and an emphasis on improving mechanical and biological performance through smart material design and fabrication.

Professional Profile

Education 🎓

Jia completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Materials Science and Engineering at Lanzhou University of Technology. She is currently pursuing her PhD at the same institution, where she continues to focus on biomedical material design, particularly UV-curable polymers and their use in medical applications. Her education has been rooted in the principles of polymer chemistry, mechanical modeling, and biomedical systems, forming a solid foundation for her cutting-edge microneedle research.

Experience 💼

Baoling Jia With a combined role as a university lecturer and a PhD researcher, Jia plays an active part in both academic instruction and scientific inquiry. She has participated in multiple interdisciplinary projects focusing on microneedle development for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Her experience includes hands-on work with photopolymerization, 3D printing, and the mechanical testing of polymer structures, equipping her with the technical depth needed to solve real-world medical material challenges. Jia is recognized for her collaborative spirit, frequently working with teams across materials science, mechanical engineering, and biomedicine.

Research Interests 🔬

Baoling Jia focuses on biomedical materials, particularly the design and fabrication of UV-curable polymer microneedles. Her research explores staggered microneedle structures for better skin penetration and comfort, along with biocompatibility and mechanical performance testing. She also applies 3D printing and photopolymerization techniques to develop scalable, minimally invasive transdermal drug delivery systems and biosensors aimed at improving long-term healthcare solutions.

Publications Top Note📄

  • Jia, Baoling; Xia, Tiandong; Xu, Yangtao; Li, Bei. Staggered Design of UV–Curable Polymer Microneedle Arrays with Increased Vertical Action Space. Polymers, 2025. (Open Access)
    Summary: This study presents a novel staggered architecture for UV-curable polymer microneedle arrays to enhance vertical action space. The design improves mechanical penetration efficiency and user comfort, offering potential for advanced transdermal delivery and biosensing technologies.

Conclusion 🏁

Baoling Jia is a promising early-career researcher whose contributions to biomedical materials are poised to make a lasting impact on healthcare technologies. Her work on staggered UV-curable microneedle systems represents a significant step forward in medical material design, blending innovation, efficiency, and patient-centered application. With a strong academic foundation, practical research experience, and a clear focus on solving real-world problems, Jia exemplifies the qualities of a forward-thinking biomedical engineer. Her work will continue to influence the future of non-invasive therapeutics and diagnostics, making her a highly suitable nominee for recognition and support in the field of biomedical research.

Tiandong Xia | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Tiandong Xia | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Lanzhou University of Technology, China

Professor Tiandong Xia is a leading academic and doctoral supervisor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Lanzhou University of Technology. With deep expertise in biomedical materials, he has built a career grounded in innovation and scientific inquiry. His research contributions span the synthesis, processing, and application of functional materials, with a focus on microneedle technology, biocompatibility, and electrochemical performance. Recognized for his collaborative and interdisciplinary approach, Professor Xia has published impactful research articles that bridge materials science and medical technology.

Professional Profile

Education 🎓

Professor Xia pursued his entire academic formation in the field of Materials Science and Engineering, completing his undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees with academic distinction. His doctoral work focused on functional materials for high-performance biomedical applications, establishing a foundation for his future career as a researcher and mentor. His educational background is marked by a commitment to both theoretical understanding and applied research, which continues to guide his scholarly pursuits today.

Experience 🏫

Over the years, Professor Xia has played an instrumental role in advancing materials science research at Lanzhou University of Technology. As a doctoral supervisor, he has mentored numerous postgraduate students, fostering a research culture of curiosity and precision. He is frequently involved in national and international research collaborations, contributing his expertise in biomaterials engineering to address complex challenges in healthcare technologies. His academic roles also include curriculum development, lab oversight, and participation in scientific committees focused on materials innovation.

Research Interests 🔬

Professor Xia’s research bridges materials science, bioengineering, and applied chemistry, with a focus on developing smart, safe, and effective materials for biomedical use. His key areas include microneedles for transdermal sensing and drug delivery, electrode and surface modification, oxidation resistance of metal alloys, and nano-structured coatings and biosensors. His work aims to advance minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic technologies that address real-world medical challenges.

Publications Top Notes📚

  • ia, Baoling; Xia, Tiandong; Wang, Xiaohui; Xu, Yangtao; Li, Bei. Investigation of biosensing properties in magnetron sputtered metallized UV-curable polymer microneedle electrodes. Journal of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition, 2024.
    Summary: This study explores the fabrication and biosensing performance of UV-curable polymer microneedle electrodes metallized via magnetron sputtering. The work demonstrates promising electrochemical properties suitable for minimally invasive biosensor applications.

  • Zhang, Han; Gao, Yueyue; Qiao, Jisen; Xia, Tiandong. Effect of high temperature heat treatment on microstructure and mechanical properties of electrodeposited nickel. Jinshu Rechuli/Heat Treatment of Metals, 2023.
    Summary: This article investigates how high-temperature heat treatment affects the microstructure and mechanical behavior of electrodeposited nickel. Findings indicate that controlled heat treatment enhances grain growth and mechanical strength.

  • Jia, Baoling; Xia, Tiandong; Wang, Xiaohui; Xu, Yangtao; Guo, Zhenyu. Morphology design of polymer microneedle arrays: Key factors from the application perspective. Review Article, Year Not Specified.
    Summary: This review examines critical factors influencing the morphology of polymer microneedle arrays, such as shape, size, and structural design, with a focus on optimizing their functionality for transdermal drug delivery and biosensing applications.

  • Xie, Xiao; Wang, Xiaojun; Xia, Tiandong. Effects of Rare Earth Y on Oxidation Resistance of Cr20Ni80 Electrothermal Alloy at High Temperature. Tezhong Zhuzao Ji Youse Hejin/Special Casting and Nonferrous Alloys, 2022.
    Summary: The paper analyzes the impact of rare earth element yttrium on the high-temperature oxidation resistance of Cr20Ni80 electrothermal alloy. Results show that Y addition significantly enhances surface stability and oxidation resistance under thermal stress.

Conclusion 🏆

Professor Tiandong Xia has built a distinguished career in materials science, particularly in the development of biomedical materials that serve both clinical and industrial purposes. His innovative research on microneedle technologies and alloy modification has not only advanced academic knowledge but also opened new possibilities in non-invasive medical diagnostics and high-performance engineering applications. His commitment to excellence, mentorship, and collaborative research makes him a compelling candidate for any award recognizing contributions to science and technology.