Ziqu Ouyang | Coal-Fired Power | Best Researcher Award

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.

Ihtisham Ul Haq | Nuclear Energy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ihtisham Ul Haq | Nuclear Energy | Best Researcher Award

Junior Engineer, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Pakistan

Ihtisham Ul Haq 👨‍🔧 is a Junior Engineer at PIEAS with a strong background in mechanical and nuclear engineering. 🎓 He completed his BSc at CECOS University and MS at PIEAS under a PAEC fellowship. His research focuses on nuclear thermal-hydraulics, CFD, and dynamic simulations 🔬💻. He developed a validated model for water level prediction in PWR steam generators using real-time data. Previously, he worked at Agritech Fertilizer Ltd. 🏭 His skills include ANSYS and MATLAB, with interests in FEA and plant system safety ⚙️📈. Ihtisham is committed to innovation and bridging research with industrial solutions. 🌍🚀

Professional Profile

ORCID

Google Scholar

🎓 Education 

Ihtisham earned his BSc in Mechanical Engineering from CECOS University Peshawar 🎓, where he gained foundational knowledge in thermodynamics, design, and fluid mechanics 📘. He later pursued an MS in Mechanical Engineering at PIEAS, completed under a PAEC fellowship 🏫. His postgraduate studies emphasized nuclear thermal-hydraulics, multiphase heat transfer, and computational simulations 🔬. He specialized in power plant safety systems and mastered tools like ANSYS Workbench and MATLAB 💻. His MS research involved real-time data modeling of PWR U-tube steam generators, enhancing his expertise in reactor systems and simulation-based engineering solutions ⚙️🔥.

🧪 Professional Experience 

Ihtisham began his career as Assistant Engineer at Agritech Fertilizer Ltd🏭, contributing to plant maintenance and system diagnostics. Currently, he serves as Junior Engineer at PIEAS under PAEC 👨‍🔬. His responsibilities include advanced simulation, mechanical analysis, and nuclear system modeling using CFD and FEA tools 🔧💡. He has led dynamic analysis projects and validated simulation-based safety models for steam generators. His work blends theoretical knowledge with real-world application in nuclear energy 🧠⚡. Ihtisham’s ability to solve complex problems through computational tools has made him a reliable contributor to research and industrial innovation. 💼🚀

🔬 Research Focus 

Ihtisham Ul Haq’s research focuses on nuclear thermal-hydraulics, CFD, and dynamic system modeling 🔥💧. He specializes in analyzing multiphase flow in PWR systems and mechanical vibrations in dynamic structures. Using ANSYS and MATLAB, he builds predictive models to ensure safety and reliability in power plants ⚙️📈. His major contributions include a validated computational model for water level prediction in steam generators and fire propagation simulation in buildings using FDS 🏢🔥. Ihtisham also explores structural response under impact loads and cold chain thermal systems. His interdisciplinary approach bridges nuclear energy, computational analysis, and plant diagnostics 🌍🔬💻.

📘 Publication Top Notes

Computational Model for Prediction of Water Level Inside Vertical U-Tube Steam Generators (UTSGs) of Typical PWR

Authors:
Ihtisham Ul Haq, Abdul Manan, Ajmal Shah

Summary:
This research presents a computational model developed to predict water levels inside vertical U-tube steam generators (UTSGs), which are critical components in pressurized water reactors (PWRs). The model considers thermodynamic parameters, fluid dynamics, and structural design features to simulate real-time behavior under operational conditions. Results enhance safety analysis and efficiency assessments of PWR systems, aiding in predictive maintenance and system optimization.

Design & Fabrication of Smart Cold Chain Box

Authors:
HK Ihtisham Ul Haq, Dr. Muftooh Ur Rehman Siddiqi, Dr. Riaz Muhammad

Summary:
This project focuses on the design and fabrication of a smart cold chain box intended for the transport of temperature-sensitive goods such as vaccines and perishable foods. The device integrates sensors, IoT connectivity, and power-efficient cooling mechanisms to maintain optimal temperature ranges. The innovation addresses cold chain logistics challenges in resource-constrained or rural areas of Pakistan.

Improved Drying Efficiency of an Indigenously Developed Solar Food Dehydrator with Advanced Features

Authors:
Ihtisham Ul Haq, Afnan Haider, Noman Habib, Dr. Muftooh Ur Rehman Siddiqi

Summary:
This paper describes the development and performance evaluation of a solar-powered food dehydrator equipped with enhanced features such as adjustable airflow, temperature monitoring, and insulation improvements. The study demonstrates that these advancements significantly improve drying efficiency and consistency for agricultural products, offering a sustainable solution for food preservation in off-grid regions.

🏆 Conclusion 

Ihtisham Ul Haq deserves the Best Researcher Award for his exceptional work in nuclear and mechanical systems engineering 🧑‍🔬🏅. His contributions, including the development of a real-time predictive model for steam generators, demonstrate technical depth and innovation. 🌐⚙️ As a PEC member and PAEC fellow, he combines academic insight with industrial relevance. He actively applies CFD and FEA tools to enhance safety and performance in nuclear power systems 💻🔬. Ihtisham exemplifies research excellence, interdisciplinary knowledge, and a strong commitment to solving real-world energy challenges 🚀🌍. His impactful publication and innovation-driven mindset mark him as a future industry leader. 💡