Valeria Pettarin | Composite Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr Valeria Pettarin | Composite Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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.

Samuel Nii Adamah | Composite materials | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Samuel Nii Adamah | Composite materials | Best Researcher Award

Ho Technical University - Ghana

Professional Profiles:

Early Academic Pursuits

Samuel Nii Adamah Sampah's academic journey commenced with a profound passion for the arts, particularly in sculpture. His formal education began at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, where he pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Sculpture, completing it in May 2005. His dedication to his craft and academic excellence propelled him further to obtain a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Sculpture by June 2009 from the same institution. Continuing his lifelong commitment to education and research in the arts, Samuel embarked on a PhD in Art Education with a Sculpture option in January 2024, again at KNUST, illustrating his dedication to advancing his expertise and contributing to the field.

Professional Endeavors

Samuel Nii Adamah Sampah's professional career reflects a dynamic blend of teaching and practical engagement in the arts. In December 2021, he was appointed Assistant Lecturer at Ho Technical University in the Department of Industrial Art, marking a significant step in his career in academia. Prior to this, he accumulated vast teaching experience ranging from his role as a Creative Arts and Technical Skills Teacher at Sunflower School from January 2015 to December 2021, to earlier positions such as Class Manager at Mother’s Nest Montessori School and a voluntary class teacher at Kentinkrono M/A School in Kumasi. These roles underscored his commitment to nurturing talent and disseminating knowledge in the arts.

Contributions and Research Focus on Composite materials

Samuel's research contributions are focused on exploring innovative uses of materials and sustainable practices in sculpture. His significant works include studies on sustainable aesthetics through repurposed studio waste materials for unorthodox finishes and designing interventions to minimize text fading and theft in metal memorial plaques. His ongoing research projects further explore themes of myth, symbolism, collectivism, and the integration of cultural motifs into modern design practices, showcasing his commitment to integrating artistic expression with practical applications.

Accolades and Recognition

While Samuel's academic journey and professional tenure have been marked by significant achievements, formal accolades and recognitions are areas he is still developing. This aspect underscores a humble journey focused more on contributions and impacts rather than personal recognition. His continuous involvement in high-impact projects and collaborations, however, sets a solid foundation for future accolades in his field.

Impact and Influence

Samuel's impact on the field of sculpture and fine arts is evidenced by his innovative approaches to material use and sustainability in art. By integrating environmental concerns with artistic creation, he not only teaches but also leads by example in promoting sustainability in art. His influence extends beyond his immediate academic and professional circles through his contributions to journals and conferences, shaping practices and inspiring upcoming artists and scholars.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking towards the future, Samuel Nii Adamah Sampah is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the arts through his educational initiatives, research, and innovative practices. His ongoing PhD research and teaching roles will likely contribute to new knowledge and methods in sculpture and fine arts education. As he continues to explore and publish his findings, his work will undoubtedly contribute to the broader discussions on sustainability and innovation in art, cementing his role as a key figure in this field.