Bahiru Bewket Mitikie | Biomimetic and Bio-inspired Composites | Best Academic Researcher Award

Best Academic Researcher Award

Bahiru Bewket Mitikie
University of South Africa

Bahiru Bewket Mitikie
Affiliation University of South Africa
Country South Africa
Scopus ID 57195584119
Documents 27
Citations 204
h-index 7
Subject Area Biomimetic and Bio-inspired Composites
Event International Research Awards on Fiberreinforced Polymer
Google Scholar ID PjrNob8AAAAJ

Bahiru Bewket Mitikie is a researcher affiliated with the University of South Africa whose scholarly work has contributed to sustainable construction materials, composite technologies, concrete durability, and bio-inspired engineering applications. His research portfolio demonstrates a consistent focus on environmentally responsible material development, including the utilization of industrial by-products, agricultural residues, and alternative cementitious materials. Through peer-reviewed publications and collaborative investigations, he has advanced understanding of innovative construction systems and material performance in diverse engineering environments.[1]

Abstract

This article presents an overview of the academic achievements and research contributions of Bahiru Bewket Mitikie. His investigations span sustainable concrete technology, recycled construction materials, cement replacement strategies, and bio-inspired composite systems. Through interdisciplinary research, he has contributed to improved understanding of material performance, environmental sustainability, and structural durability in modern engineering applications.[2]

Keywords

Biomimetic Composites, Sustainable Concrete, Fiber-Reinforced Materials, Cement Replacement, Circular Economy, Construction Materials, Durability Engineering, Bio-inspired Structures.

Introduction

The growing demand for sustainable engineering solutions has increased interest in innovative composite materials and environmentally responsible construction practices. Bahiru Bewket Mitikie has participated in research addressing these challenges through studies involving alternative binders, waste-derived materials, and advanced construction technologies. His work reflects contemporary efforts to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining engineering performance standards.[3]

Research Profile

With 27 indexed publications, 204 citations, and an h-index of 7, Mitikie has established a scholarly record characterized by applied engineering research. His studies frequently explore sustainable alternatives to conventional construction materials, emphasizing durability, resource efficiency, and environmental performance. Research collaborations have expanded the practical relevance of his findings across civil engineering and materials science disciplines.[1]

Research Contributions

  • Investigation of bamboo leaf ash as a partial cement replacement material for sustainable concrete production.
  • Development of polyethylene lunar concrete production methodologies for extraterrestrial construction environments.
  • Evaluation of marble waste and scoria as sustainable alternatives to natural sand in concrete mixtures.
  • Research on durability and microstructural characteristics of blended cement systems.
  • Assessment of waste paper pulp ash utilization in eco-friendly concrete applications.

Publications

  • Experimental investigation on effect of partial replacement of cement with bamboo leaf ash on concrete property (2021).
  • Bottom-up heating method for producing polyethylene lunar concrete in lunar environment (2018).
  • Partial replacement of sand with marble waste and scoria for normal strength concrete production (2020).
  • Investigation on bond, microstructure and durability of blended cement systems (2022).
  • Partial replacement of cement by waste paper pulp ash and its effect on concrete properties (2022).

Research Impact

The research output of Mitikie has contributed to discussions surrounding sustainable infrastructure development and resource-efficient construction materials. Several publications have received notable citation attention, particularly studies examining alternative cementitious materials and waste utilization strategies. These contributions support broader efforts toward circular economy principles and environmentally conscious engineering practices.[4]

Award Suitability

Bahiru Bewket Mitikie demonstrates qualifications consistent with consideration for the Best Academic Researcher Award presented at the International Research Awards on Fiberreinforced Polymer. His record of peer-reviewed publications, interdisciplinary collaborations, and contributions to sustainable material technologies aligns with the objectives of recognizing scholarly excellence and research innovation. The practical significance of his investigations further supports the relevance of his work within the broader field of advanced composite and construction materials.[5]

Conclusion

The academic contributions of Bahiru Bewket Mitikie illustrate a sustained commitment to sustainable engineering research and innovative material development. Through investigations involving concrete technology, recycled materials, and bio-inspired engineering concepts, he has generated knowledge relevant to contemporary infrastructure and materials science challenges. His scholarly profile reflects meaningful engagement with research topics that support sustainable development and technological advancement.[6]

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Bahiru Bewket Mitikie, Author ID 57195584119. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57195584119
  2. Abebaw, G., Bewket, B., & Getahun, S. (2021). Experimental investigation on effect of partial replacement of cement with bamboo leaf ash on concrete property.
    https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/6468444
  3. Lee, J., Ann, K.Y., Lee, T.S., & Mitikie, B.B. (2018). Bottom-up heating method for producing polyethylene lunar concrete in lunar environment.
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.asr.2018.03.026
  4. Yifru, B.W., & Mitikie, B.B. (2020). Partial replacement of sand with marble waste and scoria for normal strength concrete production.
    https://doi.org/10.1007/s42452-020-03748-2
  5. Chofore, A.T., Mitikie, B.B., & Haile, A.T. (2022). Experimental investigation on bond, microstructure and durability of blended cement systems.
    https://doi.org/10.1186/s40069-022-00589-8
  6. Mitikie, B.B., & Waldtsadik, D.T. (2022). Partial replacement of cement by waste paper pulp ash and its effect on concrete properties.
    https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/8880196

Touha Nazrun | Composite Materials | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Touha Nazrun | Composite Materials | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Touha Nazrun | Western Sydney University | Australia

Mrs. Touha Nazrun is an emerging researcher in fire safety engineering whose work demonstrates strong scientific promise, technical depth, and consistent research productivity. Her role as a Casual Research Assistant at Western Sydney University involves conducting experimental studies on the application of developed intumescent coatings on aluminium sheets, ACP cladding panels, gypsum boards, and concrete materials, with a focus on enhancing fire resistance and evaluating material performance under high-temperature conditions. She has authored several peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals, including contributions to Sustainability, Progress in Organic Coatings, and Fire, covering topics such as sustainable biopolymer-based cladding materials, fire performance improvements of aluminium composite panels, and comprehensive reviews of intumescent coating formulations and manufacturing methods. Her conference paper on the fire behaviour of aluminium sheets coated with intumescent materials earned a Best Paper Award, underscoring the originality and impact of her research. She maintains an active research pipeline with submitted and ready-to-submit manuscripts addressing material characterization, polymer–mineral filler compositions, and the use of recycled silicon dioxide in coating systems. Her scientific contributions extend to practical fire safety advancements, sustainable material development, and performance evaluation of protective coatings, reflecting her commitment to solving real-world engineering challenges. Beyond research, she has participated in technical conferences, volunteered in professional events related to fire safety engineering, and engaged in community and organizational activities, demonstrating a strong service orientation alongside academic excellence. Her growing body of work positions her as a promising researcher contributing valuable knowledge to the fields of fire protection materials, sustainable cladding technologies, and applied fire safety engineering.

Profile:  Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

Nazrun, T., Hassan, M. K., Hossain, M. D., Ahmed, B., Hasnat, M. R., & Saha, S. (2024). Application of biopolymers as sustainable cladding materials: A review. Sustainability, 16(1), 27.

Nazrun, T., Hassan, M. K., Hasnat, M. R., Hossain, M. D., Ahmed, B., & Saha, S. (2025). A comprehensive review on intumescent coatings: Formulation, manufacturing methods, research development, and issues. Fire, 8(4), 155.

Nazrun, T., Hassan, M. K., Hasnat, M. R., Hossain, M. D., & Saha, S. (2025). Improving fire performance of solid aluminium and composite cladding panels incorporating intumescent coatings. Progress in Organic Coatings, 201, 109142.

Nazrun, T., Hassan, M. K., Hasnat, M. R., Hossain, M. D., & Saha, S. (2024). Comparative study on fire behaviour of solid aluminium sheets coated with intumescent materials. Proceedings of the International Conference on Fire Safety Engineering Research and Practice.

Sun Yufeng | Composite Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr Sun Yufeng | Composite Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr Sun Yufeng | Shandong Agricultural University | China

Dr. Yufeng Sun is an Associate Professor and Master Supervisor at the College of Food Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University. She holds a Ph.D. in Food Science and Engineering from the same university and a bachelor’s degree in Food Quality and Safety from Qilu University of Technology. As a key member of the Food Safety and Quality Control Team, Dr. Sun focuses on developing advanced nanomaterial-based electrochemical sensors for the rapid and precise detection of chemical hazards in food and agricultural products. Her research expertise includes signal amplification strategies, covalent organic frameworks (COFs), and molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs). She has led several major national and provincial research projects, including those supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Shandong Provincial Key R&D Program. Dr. Sun has published 12 SCI-indexed papers in top-tier journals such as Food Chemistry and Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, and she is a co-inventor on five authorized Chinese national patents related to electrochemical sensing technologies. Her academic excellence has been recognized through multiple prestigious awards, including the Shandong Provincial Science and Technology Progress Award (Second Class, 2025), the Huaihai Science and Technology Award (First Class, 2024), and the Shandong Provincial Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award (2022). Dr. Sun continues to advance the field of food safety testing through her innovative research in nanomaterial design and sensor technology.

Profile:  Scopus  

Featured Publications

Rapid polymerization of molecularly imprinted hydrogels with self-adhesion, conductivity and specificity triggered by tannic acid–silver nanoparticles for electrochemical detection of methyl parathion in foods. (2025). Food Chemistry.

 

 

bilge demir | Composites | Distinguished Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. bilge demir | Composites | Distinguished Scientist Award

Professor at Karabuk University, Turkey

Prof. Dr. Bilge Demir is a distinguished academic and researcher at Karabük University, where he serves in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Over the decades, he has built a robust career focused on materials science, especially in dual-phase steels, composite materials, and resistance spot welding technologies. His professional journey is marked by a balance of scientific depth and practical application, enabling significant advancements in manufacturing and material performance, especially in the automotive and aerospace sectors.

Profile

Scholar

Education

He commenced his academic path with a bachelor’s degree in Metal Education from Gazi University in 1993. He pursued his master’s degree in the same discipline, completing it in 1997 with a thesis on the impact of martensite volume fraction on tensile properties in dual-phase steels. He earned his Ph.D. in 2003 from Gazi University’s Institute of Science with a focus on the manufacturability of dual-phase steels in continuous annealing lines, laying the groundwork for his lifelong research in advanced steel processing.

Experience

Prof. Demir’s academic appointments include professorships at various departments within Karabük University, including Technology and Engineering Faculties. He has served in leadership roles such as Dean, Department Head, and Vice Director of Continuing Education Center, contributing to institutional development alongside his academic responsibilities. His administrative and teaching expertise is further complemented by his supervision of over 20 master’s and doctoral theses.

Research Interests

His research spans dual-phase and TRIP steels, fatigue behavior of spot-welded joints, wear and corrosion in hybrid nanocomposites, and powder metallurgy. He is particularly renowned for experimental and simulation studies on punching processes, mechanical performance optimization of composite materials, and welding behavior of advanced steel alloys. His collaborative works often bridge academia and industry, especially in the fields of automotive and structural materials.

Awards

Prof. Demir’s excellence in research and innovation has earned him notable recognitions, including honors at the “Metalik Fikirler 5” awarded by the Ministry of Science, Industry, and Technology in 2018, and accolades at Selçuk University’s Project Marketplace in 2016. These commendations highlight the practical impact and originality of his work in metallurgical engineering and composite innovation.

Publications

Prof. Demir has published extensively in international peer-reviewed journals. Here are 7 selected works:

  1. “The comparative evaluation of the wear behavior of epoxy matrix hybrid nano-composites via experiments and machine learning models”, Tribology International, 2025 – A high-impact study combining tribological experiments with AI models.

  2. “The punching of DP1000 automotive steel-Al plate composite fabricated by explosive welding: Effect of tool geometry”, Proc. Inst. Mech. Eng. Part E, 2025 – An innovative exploration of tool geometry in composite sheet cutting.

  3. “A Comparative Study on the PMEDM of Novel Ti29Nb13Ta4.6Zr Biomedical Alloys”, Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering, 2025 – A breakthrough in biomedical alloy machining.

  4. “Manufacturing of Low and High-carbon TRIP Steels by Modeling CCT Diagrams”, Journal of Polytechnic, 2025 – A modeling-based optimization of tensile properties in TRIP steels.

  5. “An Investigation on PMEDM of TiB2 and Nanographene-Doped Mg Composites”, Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering, 2025 – A detailed account of hybrid composite machining.

  6. “EVALUATION OF THE BENDING FATIGUE BEHAVIOR… IN ULTRA-HIGH-STRENGTH STEEL’S RSW JOINTS”, Sigma Journal of Engineering and Natural Sciences, 2025 – A key contribution to fatigue modeling in welded joints.

  7. “Wear Friction and Corrosion Performance Assessment on IF, HSLA and DP600 Steels”, Metals and Materials International, 2025 – Addressing performance under severe peening conditions.

Each of these works has been cited in subsequent scientific literature, underscoring his contributions to the field of advanced materials and manufacturing processes.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Bilge Demir exemplifies excellence in research, education, and engineering innovation. His interdisciplinary work bridges traditional metallurgy with emerging technologies like AI and simulation, making profound impacts on material performance and industrial applications. As a mentor, author, and leader, he continues to shape the future of manufacturing engineering through persistent exploration and collaborative advancement. His prolific output, leadership roles, and awarded innovations make him an outstanding nominee for the Best Researcher Award in his field.