Abstract
Living systems routinely perform sensing, actuation, control, and energy conversion with a level of robustness, adaptability, and efficiency that exceeds most engineered devices. While biology is traditionally described in biochemical and physiological terms, this contribution proposes a complementary perspective: cells, organelles, and organs can be rigorously interpreted as mechatronic systems in their own right, implemented with molecular rather than electromechanical components.
The presentation develops a systematic mapping between classical mechatronic system elements—sensors, actuators, control architectures, energy sources, and structural frameworks—and their biological counterparts. At the cellular level, the cell is interpreted as an autonomous microrobotic system with distributed sensing, feedback control, and actuation. Major organelles are analyzed as modular sub-mechatronic systems, including mitochondria as adaptive power units, the cytoskeleton as a load-bearing and actuation network, and membrane trafficking systems as logistics and quality-control subsystems.
A focused case study on magnetotactic bacteria illustrates biological mechatronics in its simplest form: magnetic sensing via magnetosomes, actuation via flagella, closed-loop navigation control, and energy conversion via electrochemical gradients. These organisms are shown to function as naturally occurring microrobots optimized by evolution for low-complexity, high-robustness navigation.
The mechatronic interpretation is extended to the organ scale, with examples such as the heart and kidney analyzed as hierarchical, multi-scale control systems with embedded sensing, actuation, and feedback. The contribution highlights how biological systems realize distributed control, redundancy, self-repair, and graceful degradation—features that remain challenging in engineered mechatronic systems.
By reframing biological organization through a mechatronic and systems-engineering lens, this work aims to bridge engineering and life sciences, offering new insights for bio-inspired robotics, bio-hybrid systems, and future mechatronic design paradigms. The approach also raises fundamental questions about whether mechatronics is merely an engineering discipline—or a universal organizational principle of functional living matter.
Biography
Professor des. Dr. Per Arvid Löthman obtained his Ph.D. degree from Twente University , The Netherlands in the field of Magnetics and Self-assembly, conducted research in Canada, France and Germany on carbon nanotubes, Graphen and related 2D nanomaterials. His research is interdisciplinary and involve sensors and sensing, 2D advanced materials, BioNanotechnology including DNA, S-layers, Viruses (archaea, bacteriophages), Biomolecular Architecture, Botany and functional surfaces, Mechatronics and BioMechatronics. Dr. Löthman has published over 90 scientifical articles, several book chapters & books and serves as a reviewer and he is on the editorial board for several journals such as Nature, Nature Materials, Journal of Bioanalytical and Analytical Chemistry, Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, Thin Solid Films, Sensors and Actuators, Microsystems Technologies. Dr. Löthman is Professor des. in BioMechatronics at the European University of Applied Science Hamburg, and researchgroup leader at University of Bayreuth in the field Organ-on-a-Chip and 3D Bioprinting. Furthermore, Dr. Per Arvid Löthman is Senior lecturer in “Nanomedicine, Nanopharmacy” and “Sensors and Sensing in Engineering, Biology and Medicine” (Kaiserslautern University) and Mechatronics Systems and Design (Hamburg University), Germany and Manufacturing Engineering (HTW Berlin) Germany.
Abstract
The aim of this work was to study the optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) properties of novel MgO co-doped with different lanthanides and lithium ions as well as to evaluate the feasibility of using the mentioned phosphors as OSL dosimeters. In this context, the OSL efficiency corresponding to different stimulation wavelengths and different filters was analyzed for all the samples. The properties of the most efficient material, namely, MgO–La(OH)3, were further studied. Moreover, the repeatability and linearity of the OSL response, the fading of the OSL signal and the minimum detectable dose were investigated. Finally, feasibility of using these compounds in OSL dosimetry was assessed.
Biography
Victor R. Orante-Barrón, Ph.D. Associate Professor since february, 2010. Departamento de Investigación en Polímeros y Materiales. Universidad de Sonora. México. Education Ph.D., Materials Science, Universidad de Sonora. México. 2009. M.Sc., Polymers and Materials, Universidad de Sonora. México. 2005. B.Sc., Chemical Sciences, Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey (ITESM). México. 1999. Research Fellowships Post-Doctoral Fellowship, in the Radiation Dosimetry Laboratory of Oklahoma State University. From 2009 to 2010. Supervisor: Dr. Eduardo G. Yukihara. Visiting Researcher, in the Department of Physics of University of South Africa (UNISA), from September 4 to December 6, 2015. Awards Member of the National System of Researchers (SNI, in Spanish) of the National Council of Science and Technology (CONACyT, in Spanish). Level 1, since January, 2011. Acknowledgement to Desirable Profile from Program for Professional Teacher Development (PRODEP, in Spanish) of the National Secretary of Public Education. Participation in Conferences 98 presentations of scientific contributions in national and international conferences. Publications 24 articles published in international journals. Organizing Committees Member of organizing committees for three international conferences. Teaching Professor of several courses for undergraduate and graduate students. Human Resources Training Advisor of three B.Sc. theses (two concluded, one in process), five M.Sc theses (four concluded, one in process), and one Ph.D. thesis (in process)
Abstract
A design of experiments (DoE) methodology was employed to optimize a sustainable soil amendment based on industrial and agro-industrial residues, including steel slag, dolomite, red grape pomace (RGP), wine lees, and cement kiln dust (CKD). The formulation aimed to enhance soil pH, carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio, and prebiotic activity. Statistical evaluation of individual and synergistic effects identified an optimal composition consisting of dolomite, steel slag, CKD, wine lees, and RGP.
The optimized material exhibited a near-neutral pH of 7.62 and low total concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, and Ni, despite the metal content of slag and CKD, with moderate levels of Cu and Zn. XRF analysis revealed carbon and oxygen as dominant elements, alongside Ca, Mg, K, Si, and Fe. The presence of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and anthocyanins derived from winery residues contributed to enhanced porosity and functional groups favorable for microbial activity and nutrient cycling. SEM and FTIR analyses confirmed the heterogeneous mineral–organic structure of the formulation, supporting its potential as a circular-economy-based and environmentally sustainable soil amendment.
Biography
Prof. habil. Dr. Eng. Buruiana Daniela Laura is a remarkable personality in the fields of industrial engineering and materials engineering. As director of the Interdisciplinary Research Center for Eco-Nanotechnologies and Innovative Materials (CC-ITI), she coordinates research projects that integrate advanced and sustainable technologies in the development of innovative materials. With extensive experience in coordinating research projects, she guides young researchers in exploring innovative solutions and implementing them on an industrial scale. In addition to her research, she is actively involved in publishing scientific papers, obtaining national/international patents, and participating in international conferences. She stays up-to-date with the latest discoveries in the field and contributes to the global scientific evolution.
Abstract
This study addresses the critical challenges of soil degradation and contamination, emphasizing their profound environmental and socio-economic impacts and the urgent need for sustainable remediation strategies. Soil degradation compromises ecosystem functionality and contributes to climate change, while soil contamination represents a significant threat to human health and biodiversity. Recent advances in materials-based mitigation approaches offer promising pathways to tackle these issues simultaneously.
In this context, the present work proposes innovative and sustainable solutions based on the valorization of industrial and residual materials. A dolomite–sewage sludge composite is investigated for soil degradation mitigation, demonstrating its ability to improve soil fertility, enhance nutrient availability, and support ecosystem restoration processes. Furthermore, a novel dolomite–stainless steel slag mixture is introduced for the effective adsorption of petroleum hydrocarbons, highlighting its potential for the remediation of contaminated soils.
The experimental results reveal notable improvements in soil quality parameters and a significant reduction in pollutant concentrations, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed materials. These findings underline the potential of such eco-friendly mixtures to advance sustainable soil management practices while contributing to circular economy principles. Overall, this study provides valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and environmental practitioners seeking innovative, scalable, and sustainable solutions for soil protection and environmental resilience.
Biography
Viorica Ghisman is a Lecturer in the Department of Materials and Environmental Engineering at “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, Romania. She specializes in Materials Engineering, with research interests focused on the development of innovative and advanced materials aimed at improving material performance in the medical field, environmental applications, and asphalt mixtures.
Abstract
Bio-inspiration shows us that, whether it is stress-resistant structures, camouflage structures, etc., knowing how to effectively use 3D and 2D structures is of paramount importance in the living world. To generate by-design 2D-3D surface texture, a new process called ‘By Design Surface Modulation ('BDSM')’ was developped. The 3D-printing concept (FFF) is used to modulate the BDSM, by playing both with the 3D structure and the 2D surface texture.
To position our concept, we rethought bio-inspired 3D CAD design (e.g., bones) and introduced an understanding of hyperelasticity through the kirigami technique. From there, we refocused the optimization to mimic the bones gradient porosities to effectively modulate the 2D texture, i.e. ‘infill texture-decoration’. As a perpespective, ‘ironing texture-decoration’ will be illustrated.
Biography
Severine A.E. Boyer, CNRS Researcher, has completed her PhD from Blaise Pascal Clermont-Ferrand University (France), and Assistant-Professor studies from the Tokyo Metropolitan University (Japan), and respectively from Mines Paris PSL and IMT Mines Douai (France). She has published more than 50 papers. Her activities aim to conduct combinations of chemo-physics / poly-morpho-genesis / interfaces in hybrids materials to meet the challenges of new materials, new model-experiments and new numerical models. Alain Burr did his PhD at Paris VI University (France). He was Assistant-Professor at the University of California Santa Barbara (USA) before being CNRS Researcher at ESPCI Paris PSL and Mines Paris PSL (France). He has published more than 40 papers. His concern is about functional materials, such as polymer nanocomposites, the modulation of physicochemical properties of polymer, this in the process concept as nD printing. In addition, during 2013-2019, as a partner, he created and developed the startup Pigm'Azur (France), a company that manufactures hybrid pigments.
Abstract
Our research concerns the development of surface chemistry that reduces fouling of materials employed to fabricate various medical devices. The interaction of substrates with the components of biological fluids has constituted a research problem over many years. In this regard, a variety of strategies have been used to attempt an enhancement of biocompatibility with some emphasis being centered on the control of surface free energy and imposition of a plethora of surface coatings. In our work, we have designed an ultra-thin surface modification monolayer that displays remarkable antifouling properties. We are working on surface modification of several polymers employed in circuitry used in bypass surgery and renal dialysis and in catheter technology. With regard to bacterial adhesion on materials used for catheter fabrication, we have worked primarily with samples containing relatively high concentrations of E.coli, pseudomonas, candida (fungus) and staphylococcus aureus both in static and dynamic experiments. The results of these experiments involving extensive fluorescence microscopy show a dramatic reduction in bacterial adhesion caused by the ultra-thin covalently-attached monolayer. In terms of thrombogenicity, it is known that micro-clots can form on polymers exposed to blood leading to medical consequences such as cognitive disability. Our research on the polymer (or steel) surface-blood interaction shows an over 90% reduction of thrombus formation is achieved. Importantly, unlike many coatings, our surface-modified materials can be subjected to standard sterilization protocols without suffering damage.
Biography
Professor Michael Thompson obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of Wales, UK and his PhD in analytical chemistry from McMaster University. Following a period as Science Research Council PDF at Swansea University, UK, he was appointed Lecturer in Instrumental Analysis at Loughborough University. He then moved to the University of Toronto where he is now Professor of Bioanalytical Chemistry. He has held a number of distinguished research posts including the Leverhulme Fellowship at the University of Durham and the Science Foundation Ireland E.T.S Walton Research Fellowship at the Tyndall National Institute, Cork City. He is recognized internationally for his pioneering work over many years in the area of research into new biosensor technologies and the surface chemistry of biochemical and biological entities. He has made major contributions to the label-free detection of immunochemical and nucleic acid interactions and surface behavior of cells using ultra high frequency acoustic wave physics. In recent years his group has concentrated on solutions to the ubiquitous fouling and biocompatibility problem of sensors and medical devices. This has included the direct operation of biosensors in biological fluids and avoidance of platelet aggregation on medical polymeric materials. Thompson has served on the Editorial Boards of a number of major international journals including Analytical Chemistry and The Analyst and is currently Editor-in-Chief of the monograph series “Detection Science” for the Royal Society of Chemistry, UK. He has been awarded many prestigious international prizes for his research including The Robert Boyle Gold Medal of the Royal Society of Chemistry, The Elsevier Prize in Biosensor and Bioelectronic Technology, the E.W.R. Steacie Award of the Chemical Society of Canada, and recently the 2023 Royal Society of Chemistry Horizons Prize in Analytical Science. He was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 1999.
Abstract
Nanotechnology provides faster and more sensitive solutions for ensuring food quality and safety within complex supply chains. This paper outlines key nanomaterial families-noble metals, magnetic nanoparticles, metal oxides, carbon nanostructures, quantum dots, and functional polymers and their roles in plasmonic, electrochemical, chemiresistive, and fluorescence-based sensors. Applications include spoilage detection, adulteration monitoring, intelligent packaging, and real-time IoT-integrated systems. Challenges related to toxicity and environmental impact are discussed alongside safe-by-design strategies and scalable platforms for delivering safer foods and reducing waste.
Biography
Andrei Ivanov is a second-year PhD researcher in Materials Engineering at Dunărea de Jos University of Galați, Romania. He completed his bachelor's studies in Industrial Robotics and later earned a master's degree in Advanced Materials and Innovative Technologies. His work focuses on nanomaterials for food quality and safety, with emphasis on nano-enabled sensors and smart packaging.
Abstract
Modern ballistic protection requires materials capable of providing high impact resistance, flexibility, low weight, and superior energy absorption efficiency simultaneously. High-performance fibers such as para-aramids and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)—including Kevlar®, Twaron®, Dyneema®, and Spectra®—are widely used due to their excellent strength-to-weight ratio, toughness, and chemical stability. In ballistic applications, these fibers are integrated as woven fabrics or composite laminates, and their performance can be further enhanced through targeted modifications at the filament level, textile architecture, or composite structure. Among advanced optimization strategies, functional coatings play a critical role, as they increase inter-filament friction, stiffness, and penetration resistance while maintaining low mass. Shear-thickening fluids (STFs), ceramic and silica nanoparticles, graphene-based layers, carbon nanotubes, and hydrothermally grown ZnO nanostructures contribute to improving kinetic-energy dissipation, delaying crack propagation, and protecting the substrate from degradation. An integrated analysis of these surface treatments highlights their influence on energy-absorption mechanisms, structural stability, and impact behavior in ballistic materials. Current development directions emphasize the need for the simultaneous optimization of mechanical efficiency, durability, and multifunctionality to achieve lightweight, flexible protection systems capable of meeting the increasingly demanding requirements of modern military and civilian applications.
Biography
Georgiana Ghisman (Alexe) is a second-year PhD researcher in Materials Engineering at Dunărea de Jos University of Galați, Romania. She holds degrees in Materials Science, and Finance and Banking, as well as a master’s degree in Advanced Materials and Innovative Technologies. Her doctoral research focuses on the advanced materials for ballistic protection, with particular emphasis on coatings, high-performance fibers, and micro/nanostructured surface treatments.
Abstract
Polymers are the most commonly used materials for the treatment of the damaged or malfunctioning tissues and organs when used as supporting implants, and also for the diagnosis
of the sicknesses when used as biosensors. Their versatility for being very different structures as from hard to very soft and/or elastomeric, and their ability to get various forms as films,
porous, fibrous or 3D printed structures made them preferable materials in medicine, health and biotechnological applications. Medical devices are generally produced in macron size, as hearth valves, contact and intraocular lenses, artificial veins, wound dressings, etc. There are also micron and nano size materials mostly used in the manufacturing of drug carrier systems (mostly targeted for cancer tumors) or in biosensor production. Small modifications can also be applied to macro systems to change their surface or bulk properties in the desired direction. Biodegradable and biocompatible polymers have very high importance in scaffold production to be applied in tissue engineering. In general, these scaffolds have micron size pores and nano size fibers or membranes. These scaffolds may contain cells (preferable patients own cells or stem cells) and can be implanted into the harmed part of the body. As the scaffolds degrade by time, cells grow, proliferate and replace by the new tissue, without leaving any foreign material in the body. Nano designs on the implant surfaces can also maintain proliferation of cells in a certain direction, such as nerve cells, or addition of hydroxyapatite or silver nano particles may enhance bone compatibility and antimicrobial efficacy, respectively. The most commonly used polymers in medical device design are either natural (as collagen, gelatin, cellulose, chitosan, etc.) or synthetic (as polyurethane, polymethylmethacrylate, polycaprolactone, etc.) origin. Depending of their properties, they can be applied to soft (as skin artery, etc.) or hard (as orthopedic and dental implants) tissues.
Biography
Prof. Hasirci is a member of Middle East Technical University BIOMATEN-Center of Excellence in Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering (Türkiye), and Near East University (TRNC). Her research covers synthesis and characterization of different types of polymers and composites, including micro-and-nano modifications of polymeric materials used in medicine. She attended more than 500 conferences, has more than 250 publications, 4 patents, 21 chapters, 3 books (as one of the two authors of the ‘Fundamentals of Biomaterials’). Her research awarded by various organizations and by different universities. Her h-index is 56 (Google Scholar). She received ‘Science Award’ given by M.Parlar Foundation and ‘Technology Award’ given by Elginkan Foundation. She is Honorary Member of ‘ESB-European Society of Biomaterials’; and Fellow of the Science Academy’ (Türkiye).
Abstract
This Plenary Talk will focuse on describing materials science and characterization of physicochemical properties of hydroxyapatite (HAp) scaffolds and HAp scaffolds coated with a unique transformational best biocompatible (because made of Carbon atoms/life’ element in human DNA/cells/molecules) Utrananocrystalline Diamond (UNCD) coating (HAp-UNCD) produced via patented microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD) and Hot Filament Chemical Vapor Deposition (HFCVD) processes. Studies involved complementary analytical techniques and biological assays, namely:
1. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed scaffolds’ pore structure, critical for bone regeneration / formation, and EDS chemical analysis showed Ca, P and C atoms.
2. High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) revealed nanoscale structures of HAp and HAp-UNCD scaffolds; and EDS analysis confirmed the presence of P and C atoms in the HAp-UNCD scaffolds.
3. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed HAp-UNCD crystalline structure before/after immersion in HBSS, revealing excellent chemical inertness.
4. Raman spectroscopy provided chemical analysis of HAp and UNCD-coated HAp, before/after immersion in Hanks’ Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS).
5. Infrared (IR) analysis revealed carbonate ions on scaffolds’ surfaces.
6. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) analysis revealed transformational chemical interactions between atoms in HAp and HAp-UNCD scaffolds.
7. In vitro cytotoxicity assays showed NO-cytotoxicity in HAp and HAp-UNCD scaffolds.
8. N 2 adsorption-desorption analysis showed mesoporosity in both scaffolds.
9. Mineral content analysis showed Na / Mg atoms, important elements for bone cells’ growth.
10. UNCD coating increases HAp’ surface roughness, increasing bone cellular growth with superior bone osseointegration for artificial prostheses.
11. Application of Integrated UNCD-coated commercial Ti-alloy dental implants in maxillary bones’ HAp demonstrated new transformational UNCD-coated DIs-maxillary bone integration
Biography
Auciello graduated with honors: M.S. (1973), Ph.D. (1976) – Physics, Institute “Balseiro”/Universidad Nacional Cuyo-Argentina); EE-Universidad Córdoba-Argentina (1964-1970). Postdoctoral-McMaster University, Canada (1977-1979); Distinguished Research Scientist-University of Toronto-Canada (1979-1984), Associate Professor/North Carolina State University-USA (1984-1988), Distinguished Scientist-Microelectronic Center North Carolina-USA (1988-1996), Distinguished Scientist (1996-2010) / Distinguished Fellow (Top Honor / 2010-2012)-Argonne National Laboratory-USA; Distinguished Endowed Chair Professor-University of Texas-Dallas, Materials Science/Engineering and Bioengineering Departments (2012-2025); Distinguished Research Scientist / Texas State University, School of Engineering (January 2026-present) Expertise: Materials science and technologies development: 1) R&D on transformational multifunctional ferroelectric oxide films and application to non-volatile Ferroelectric Random-Access Memories (FeRAMs); 2) R&D on piezoelectric films and applications to MEMS/NEMS biosensors and energy generation devices for the external world and implantable in humans; 3) R&D on transformational super high-K dielectrics Nanolaminates films and nanocarbon films (novel Ultrananocrystalline Diamond (UNCD TM ) ) and applications to industrial, high-tech, and external and implantable medical devices and protheses. UNCD film technology is commercialized for industrial products by Advanced Diamond Technologies (Auciello et al.-Founders-2003, profitable-2012, sold to large company-2019), and by Original Biomedical Implants (OBI-USA, 2013) and OBI-México (2016-present) (Auciello and colleagues/founders), for new generations of superior medical devices/prostheses and other implants.
Abstract
This presentation explores unconventional approaches—mechanochemistry, sonochemistry, and mechanical alloying—for the synthesis of metallic, ionic, and molecular (organic) materials. Recent advances in mechanochemistry are reviewed, with particular emphasis on proposed reaction mechanisms and the use of solid-state NMR( SS MAS NMR) to monitor solid-state transformations, illustrated by the authors’ experimental results. Examples of novel materials synthesis include metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), copper hypophosphate, complex metal hydrides, 3D heterostructures, and high-entropy transition-metal dichalcogenides. The role of mechanical processing in supporting Circular Economy objectives is also discussed, along with opportunities for scaling laboratory methods toward industrial and commercial applications.
Biography
Dr. Viktor Balema is an expert in novel electronic and energy materials, as well as non-conventional materials preparation techniques. He earned his BS/MS degrees from L'viv State University, Ukraine, and PhD from the A. Nesmeyanov Institute of the Academy of Sciences in Moscow. Subsequently, he conducted research at the universities of Karlsruhe and Leipzig, Germany as Visiting Scientist, then joined Ames Laboratory of the US Department of Energy. Over two decades, Dr. Balema directed the Hard Materials Segment and Materials Science R&D at Sigma-Aldrich Co. and held Senior Scientist and CTO positions at Ames Laboratory and in the chemical industry. Currently, he is an Adjunct Professor at Clemson University, SC, USA. Dr. Balema has authored over 100 papers and patents, delivered numerous invited talks, and served as a reviewer for the US DOE, NSF, US CRDF, ACS PRF, and numerous peer-reviewed journals. His research has also been featured in popular scientific magazines, including New Scientist and Scientific American.
Abstract
Semi-flexible pavement (SFP) relies primarily on the properties of cementitious grouting material (CGM), which plays a crucial role in providing the durability and crack resistance. This paper investigates the performance of CGMs containing recycled waste glass (RWG) as a replacement to fine granite aggregate (FGA) and their effect on SFP mixtures. Two high-fluidity glass-cementitious grouts (Glcement grouts) were developed and tested at five RWG replacement levels (0%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100%). The results indicated that CGM with 70% RWG provided the most balanced performance, with a flowability of 11.8 seconds, low drying shrinkage (0.04%), and water absorption not exceeding 1.9%. The mechanical properties were significantly enhanced, achieving a high compressive strength of 121.9 MPa and a high flexural strength of 13.9 MPa. Microstructural analysisconfirmed a refinedinterfacial transition zone with low porosity (5.36%), contributing to superior durability. Furthermore, the SFP mixture injected with Glcement exhibited high mechanical performance, attributed to improved interlocking within voids. In conclusion, replacing FGA with RWG in CGM optimizes both mechanical and durability properties, promoting sustainable and low-carbon pavement construction.
Biography
Ayman Hassan AL-Qudah is a skilled civil engineer and academic who was awarded a Ph.D. in Highway Engineering from the Universiti Malaya, Malaysia. He holds a Master’s degree in Highway Engineering from the Universiti Malaysia Perlis and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from AL-Balqa’ Applied University, Jordan. His research interests are in Highway Engineering, Green Materials Innovation, Pavement Materials, Asphalt Pavement, Semi-Flexible Pavement, and Smart Transportation. With extensive experience across Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia, AL-Qudah has worked as a lecturer, lab instructor, and consulting engineer. His professional and academic contributions center around pavement engineering, sustainable construction materials, and infrastructure development. He also won awards in international events and competitions.
Abstract
Corrosion represents a major limitation to the durability and structural integrity of steels, especially in chemically aggressive environments. This study examines advanced methods for mitigating corrosion by the application of organic and inorganic inhibitors, emphasizing their mechanisms of action and effectiveness under varied conditions. This paper provides an overview of current strategies for improving the corrosion resistance of steels using inhibitors, highlighting their industrial relevance and practical applicability.
Biography
Balan-Balantof Ionut-Cristian is a first-year PhD researcher in Materials Engineering at Dunărea de Jos University of Galați, Romania. He holds degree in construction installation engineering – firefighting at Faculty of the “Alexandru Ioan Cuza“ Police Academy from Bucharest. He currently works at the Emergency Situations Inspectorate of Galati County as head of the Prevention Inspection Service. His doctoral research focuses on developing innovative strategies to enhance the corrosion resistance of steels in aggressive environments using inhibitors, aiming to improve material durability and performance in demanding industrial applications.
Abstract
This paper presents an integrated analysis of strategies aimed at improving the long-term performance of materials used in naval applications through advanced protective coating technologies. The study emphasizes the role of nanoparticle enhanced paint systems such as those incorporating ceramic, metallic, or polymer-based nanofillers in mitigating degradation processes typical of marine environments. Particular attention is given to understanding the combined effects of corrosion, fatigue, and mechanical loading, as well as the ways in which nanoparticle dispersion and coating microstructure influence protective coatingefficiency. The work explores multi-layer and multifunctional coating, predictive lifetime assessment methods to enhance durability and reliability of materials in maritime conditions.
Biography
Bianca-Elena Roșca (Neagu) is a first-year PhD student in Materials Engineering at “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați. She completed her bachelor’s studies and master’s degree in Naval Architecture. Her doctoral research focuses on developing advanced strategies to prolong the service life of high-performance industrial materials, with an emphasis on enhancing the corrosion resistance of steels in order to improve long-term durability and operational reliability.
Abstract
The increasing demand for sustainable and affordable water treatment technologies has intensified interest in ceramic membranes as robust alternatives to polymeric systems. This lecture presents recent advances in the development of low-cost ceramic membranes fabricated from natural geomaterials (clay, phosphate...) and their application in seawater pretreatment and solvent dehydration. These membranes combine mechanical strength and chemical stability, with significantly reduced production costs, making them attractive for large-scale and resource-constrained applications. Their performance in removing suspended solids, organic matter, and fouling precursors prior to desalination is discussed. The lecture further explores the integration of zeolite membranes deposited on geomaterialbased ceramic supports. The addition of zeolitic layers introduces controlled microporosity and specific surface chemistry, enabling enhanced selectivity and adsorption capacity. The synergistic combination of low-cost ceramic supports and functional zeolite layers offers a promising route toward multifunctional membrane systems. Overall, this work highlights how material innovation at both the support and active-layer levels can contribute to more resilient, efficient, and economically viable water treatment and desalination pretreatment technologies.
Biography
Fatima-Zohra Charik is an Assistant Professor in Physico-Chemistry of Materials at the École Normale Supérieure of Casablanca, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco. She also serves as Scientific Platform Manager at the Cité d’Innovation et de Transfert de Technologie of Hassan II University, overseeing two advanced chemistry platforms dedicated to research, high-level characterization, and technology transfer. She holds an international joint Ph.D. in Physico-Chemistry of Materials and Chemical Engineering from Hassan II University of Casablanca and the University of Rennes (France). Following her Ph.D., she pursued an academic career in France as an Assistant Professor in Chemistry-Process and Environment at the IUT of Rennes, University of Rennes. Her current research focuses on membrane materials and processes for water treatment and desalination, including reverse osmosis, low-cost ceramic membranes, and sustainable separation technologies.
Abstract
The number of aerogel characteristics and applications is truly remarkable. It is acquainted that the highly porous nature and surface area of aerogels allows reactants to access active sites more easily as a catalyst, filter airborne particles, including allergens, dust, and pollutants. Hybrid aerogl has excellent controlled delivery of medications in biomedical applications. Silica aerogels have been used extensively in thermal insulation and acoustic insulation. Silica alumina aerogels with high amino content significantly improves CO 2 absorption and emerging applications for aerogels beyond insulation include biomedical, energy storage and environmental remediation. However, synthetic polymer aerogels offer greater mechanical strength than silica-based aerogels and are more suitable for energy storage and conversion applications. Similarly, Bio-based polymer aerogels can also be designed for biomedical applications, such as tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and drug delivery systems and Aerogel have specific composites made with MXenes and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) exhibit outstanding electrical conductivity, mechanical robustness, and specific capacitance that outperforms conventional supercapacitors. This paper briefly reviews the synthesis process, properties (i.e., thermal, mechanical, optical, and acoustic), and potential applications of aerogel. Furthermore, the interactions between impurities and porous nanoparticles were also analysed. It has been found that the sol-gel method is widely used for the synthesis of aerogel, and silica is one of the most utilized materials for the production of aerogel, followed by rice husk, coconut coir, and graphene.
Biography
Professor of Engineering. Ashish Thakur is currently Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Echelon Institute of Technology, India. Earlier, his expertise disseminate in Solid Mechanics and Design, Manufacturing Engineering at Mekelle University. His work engages with mechanical engineering in the Ethiopia, Thailand, India and cut across materials science, metallurgical, mechanical and industrial engineering regime. He is involved in various researches and consultancy activities and published around 75 research articles on mechanical, materials and industrial engineering domain, reviewed more then 40 papers worldwide, written book chapters, guided engineering students, authored and honour my degree from IIT Bombay in year 2007. He has won multiple awards for his research and teaching work across the borders of African states, visited many countries, world premier institutions like Harvard, MIT, Brown, Manhattan, AIT Thailand, Addis University subjected to field of engineering teaching and team research.
Abstract
How do you bend the world’s strongest material (graphene) without breaking it? Graphene seems “unbendable” because it’s the strongest material ever measured in tension—but strength and bendability are different things. Important is how you apply the force and at what scale. Graphene is very strong in-plane, but it has only low bending stiffness because it’s only one atom thick. This makes graphene stronger than steel and flexible like rubber.
Through advanced LAMMPS simulations and the 0.7520 lattice precision, we demonstrate how harmonic frequency control allows for programmable shape-memory in graphene layers. This contribution will showcase the transition from atomic chaos to the architectural order of the "Origami Universe" of graphene, opening new doors for aerospace and high-performance industrial applications.
Biography
Visionary engineer specializing in Bio-Quantum Resonance and Atomic Architecture. Pioneer in the application of the Bravo Constant (0.7520) to molecular biology. Successfully unified graphene physics with protein engineering to achieve 99.9% structural purity and biological stabilization at 42.2 Hz. Currently leading the most advanced longevity and cellular repair project in the private sector.
Abstract
The increasing demand for high-performance road infrastructure underscores the need for advanced monitoring technologies applied to asphalt materials. This study investigates the integration of smart sensors within asphalt mixtures to monitor key parameters related to composition, thermal behavior, and mechanical performance. By delivering real-time data on strain, temperature, moisture, and early degradation, these embedded sensors enable a proactive assessment of material behavior under service conditions. The results highlight the potential of sensor-enhanced asphalt systems to extend pavement durability, improve maintenance strategies, and support the development of safer and more sustainable road materials.
Biography
Andromeda Iacob is a first-year PhD researcher in Materials Engineering at Dunărea de Jos University of Galați, Romania. She holds degrees in Traffic Police, Law, and Business Administration, as well as a Master’s degree in Criminal Sciences and Criminology. Since 2013, she has worked at the Galați Traffic Police Department, with expertise in traffic management and road systematization. Her doctoral research focuses on the development and evaluation of advanced asphalt materials and the integration of smart sensors for real-time monitoring, aiming to enhance road safety, durability, and the sustainability of transportation infrastructure.
Abstract
This paper provides an overview of recent advances in cryogenic technologies, highlighting the role of tanks in safely storing fluids at extremely low temperatures. It examines fluid behavior in single and two-phase regimes, boil-off mechanisms, and modern insulation solutions aimed at reducing energy losses. The study also discusses structural materials, functional coatings, and numerical models that support the optimization of performance and reliability. The paper emphasizes the importance of material selection and engineering strategies focused on extending equipment service life, as well as current trends such as miniaturization and the adoption of international standards.
Biography
Marian-Cristian Staicu is a second-year PhD researcher in Materials Engineering at Dunărea de Jos University of Galați, Romania. He completed his bachelor's studies at the Faculty of Naval Architecture, specializing in Naval Architecture, and later earned a master's degree at the Faculty of Engineering, in the field of Quality Management in Industrial Engineering, also at Dunarea de Jos University of Galati. His doctoral research focuses on the development and characterization of advanced materials designed for the storage of cryogenic liquids, with the aim of improving safety, structural integrity, and performance under extreme operating conditions.
Abstract
There are more than 50 different metals. However, in ordinary use in households and industrial buildings, there are basically five types: steel, cast iron, copper, aluminum, and zinc. Each has unique properties, strengths, color, and reactions to fire, temperature, and the fire environment. This talk will discuss how specific conclusions can be drawn from these properties and how they can help you determine the cause and origin of a fire.
Biography
B.S. Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology and M.S Material Science and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame. Over 30 years’ experience in Accident Reconstruction, Code & Standard Compliance Issues, Material Failure Analysis & Metallurgical Testing, Fire Cause and Origin (Commercial and, Residential), Utility Investigations (Gas, Electric and Steam), Gas Turbines and Underwater Structural Inspection Management. Mr. O’Shea founded Applied Materials Technologies, Inc. in 2001. His project management experience includes inspections on hundreds of QA/QC inspections and forensic investigations. He has authored numerous presentations related to failure analysis and engineering investigations and is active in many Technical Societies. Like Dr. Johnson, Mr. O’Shea believes proactive actions prior to incidents are critical in avoiding potential catastrophic events.
Abstract
Will be updated soon
Biography
Prof. Dr. Nour F. Attia is professor at gas analysis and fire safety lab, chemistry division, National Institute of standards (NIS). Dr. Attia received his B.S. degree from the Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science , Alexandria University and his M.S. degree from the Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Egypt. Then he went to south Korea to join Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) for his doctoral degree and got it from the School of Material Science and Engineering at GIST, South Korea. Prof. Attia’s research contributions in the field of nanochemistry, energy gasses (H2 & CH4) storage, gas separation and greenhouse gases capture, smart textile and water treatments. Prof. Attia published more than 111 international papers in high impact factor journals and presented in more than 60 in international conferences. Additionally, Dr. Nour published 6 international patents (2 USA and 4 Korean) and five Egyptian patents were recently filled. His H-index is 41. He also, was appointed as visiting scientist at Department of Energy Engineering, Gyeongnam National University of Science and Technology (GNTECH) from 2017-2021. He was visiting professor at Ulsan Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), South Korea July 2024. Additionally, he was visiting professor at Calabria University, italy May 2025. Also, he has been awarded several national and international prizes such as State Prize, National Institute of Standards Prize, Medal of Excellence from the first class from President of the Republic 2020 , Obada-Prize and Climate Change Alleviation Award 2022 from Mansoura University. He has been elected as a member of the Egyptian Young Academy of Sciences for 2021-2024. Additionally, he has selected among the highest distinguished top 2% worldwide scientists in the following connective years 2021,2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025. He has elected as member of National committee of new and advanced materials 2022-2025, also he elected for another term 2025-2028. He is PI of several research projects funded from ASRT and STDF. Interestingly, he chaired several international conference in nanotechnology and green hydrogen technologies and Editor-in-chief of Climate change action Journal and editorial members for many. Recently, he has been selected as member of Electristy and Energy Research Council 2025-2028, ASRT, Egypt.
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