Professor – Researcher at Institute of Materials Science and Technology / University of Mar del Plata, Argentina
Valeria Pettarin is an accomplished materials scientist specializing in polymer science and engineering. She has held various prestigious academic and research positions, including serving as the Director of the Materials Engineering Department at the University of Mar del Plata. With a strong background in material mechanics, fracture behavior, and sustainable polymer applications, she has significantly contributed to advancing polymer composites and recycled materials. Her extensive research collaborations span multiple countries, reflecting her international influence in the field.
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Education
Valeria Pettarin obtained her degree in Materials Engineering from the University of Mar del Plata in 1998. She further pursued her passion for materials science by earning a Doctorate in Materials Science from the same university in 2002. Throughout her academic journey, she has engaged in research exchanges at prestigious institutions, enhancing her expertise in polymer mechanics, fracture analysis, and sustainable materials.
Experience
Dr. Pettarin’s professional career is marked by her contributions as an academic and researcher. She began as a doctoral fellow at CONICET and later became a postdoctoral fellow, continuing her research in polymer engineering. She has served as an independent researcher at the National Research Council (CONICET) and as Vice-Director of the Polymer Science and Engineering Group at INTEMA. Additionally, she has held visiting professorships at multiple institutions, furthering international collaboration in materials science research.
Research Interests
Her research interests lie in the mechanical, fracture, and impact performance of polymers and their composites, particularly emphasizing the microstructural effects induced by processing techniques. She is also dedicated to sustainable polymer applications, including recycling massively used polymer-based packaging and optimizing polymer composites for enhanced performance. Her work integrates experimental mechanics, material characterization, and innovative polymer processing techniques.
Awards
Dr. Pettarin has received multiple accolades for her contributions to materials science and engineering. She has been recognized for her excellence in polymer research and her commitment to sustainable material development. Her work has been instrumental in bridging academia and industry, leading to technological advancements and industrial collaborations in polymer composites.
Publications
Pettarin, V., Frontini, P.M., Eliçabe, G. (2004). “Inverse Analysis of Impact Test Data: Experimental Study on Polymeric Materials Displaying Brittle Behavior.” Mechanics of Time-Dependent Materials, 8(3), 269-288. Cited by 50+ articles.
Pettarin, V., Fasce, L.A., Frontini, P.M. (2003). “Evaluation of Impact Fracture Toughness of Polymeric Materials by Means of the J-integral Approach.” Polymer Engineering & Science, 43(5), 1081-1095. Cited by 100+ articles.
Pettarin, V., Costantino, A., Rosales, C. (2020). “Polypropylene Blends and Composites: Processing-Morphology-Performance Relationship of Injected Pieces.” IntechOpen. Cited by 30+ articles.
Pettarin, V., Rosales, C., Aït Hocine, N. (2023). “Toughness Improvement of LLDPE/PP Blend by Incorporation of GTR Waste.” Polymer Bulletin. Cited by 20+ articles.
Pettarin, V., Morales, F., Campos, G. (2024). “On the Challenge of Recycling Massively Used Polymer-Based Packaging.” CRC Press. Cited by 15+ articles.
Pettarin, V., Ramirez, C., Agaliotis, E. (2024). “Fracture Toughness and Overall Characterization of PLA-Based Biocomposites with Natural Fibers.” Polymer, 307, 127309. Cited by 10+ articles.
Pettarin, V., Campos, G., Sáiz, L. (2024). “Self-Healing Recyclable Polymers Based on Azobenzenes with Thermoset-like Behavior.” Polymer, 290, 126560. Cited by 12+ articles.
Conclusion
Dr. Valeria Pettarin’s exceptional contributions to materials science, leadership in academia, commitment to sustainability, and impact on global research make her an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work not only advances scientific knowledge but also fosters innovation and environmental responsibility in engineering.