Maria-Beatrice Coltelli | Sustainability and Recycling of FRPs | FRP Sustainability Achievement Award

Prof. Maria-Beatrice Coltelli | Sustainability and Recycling of FRPs | FRP Sustainability Achievement Award

University of Pisa, Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, Italy

Profiles:

Current Position🏛️

Maria-Beatrice Coltelli (MBC) serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering at the University of Pisa (UNIPI) since 2019. In this role, she imparts knowledge on subjects such as Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Materials Science and Technology, and Reactive Processing and Recycling of Polymers. Furthermore, MBC has taken on the role of President of the PhD course in Chemical Engineering and Materials since 2023, guiding the next generation of scientists and engineers in the field.

Ongoing Research 🔍

Maria-Beatrice Coltelli is actively involved in several research projects that focus on the development of sustainable materials. Currently, she is the coordinator of the project “PLAnt-based antiMIcrobial aNd circular PACKaging for plant products” (PLAMINPACK), funded by the PRIMA2023 EU-Mediterranean call. Her role emphasizes the importance of creating packaging solutions that are both effective and environmentally friendly. Moreover, she is the research leader for the Flexizyme project, aimed at constructing a flexible enzymatic biotechnological platform for sustainable industrial production of bio-based fatty amines.

Research Interests 🔬

MBC’s research interests encompass a broad spectrum within the realm of materials science. 

  • Biodegradable materials for packaging and agricultural applications.
  • Polymer blends, composites, and nano-composites for recyclable and bioplastic applications.
  • Industrial ecology, investigating new avenues for waste valorization and resource sustainability.

Academic Background 🎓

Maria-Beatrice Coltelli completed her Master’s degree in Chemistry in 2001, followed by a PhD in Chemical Science in 2005, both from the University of Pisa. This strong academic foundation has equipped her with the skills necessary to address complex challenges in materials science, particularly in polymer technology.

Scholarships and Awards 🏆

Throughout her career, MBC has been recognized for her contributions to the field. Her role as the National Coordinator of the European BISC-E challenge organized by the Biobased Industry Consortium (BIC) since 2024 exemplifies her leadership in promoting biobased solutions. Her commitment to academic excellence is further reflected in her leadership roles within various interdepartmental centers at UNIPI.

Professional Associations 🤝

MBC is an active member of several professional organizations, enhancing her network and influence within the scientific community. She has been involved with the CISIM, CISUP, and CISBEC interdepartmental centers at UNIPI, contributing her expertise to interdisciplinary initiatives and projects.

Training & Workshops 📅

As an educator, Maria-Beatrice Coltelli has organized and participated in numerous training sessions and workshops, aiming to disseminate knowledge on innovative materials and sustainable practices. Her dedication to educating others is evident in her dynamic teaching approach and active engagement in academic forums.

Oral Presentations 🗣️

MBC has delivered multiple oral presentations at international conferences, sharing her insights on materials science innovations and sustainable practices. Her ability to communicate complex ideas clearly has made her a sought-after speaker in the field.

Tasks Completed as a Researcher ✅

Over her career, MBC has successfully completed various research tasks, including:

  • Leading projects on reactive blending of plastics and their recycling.
  • Developing 100% biodegradable plastic fibers for agricultural use.
  • Participating in numerous European projects aimed at advancing sustainable materials.

Success Factors 🌟

The success of Maria-Beatrice Coltelli can be attributed to her relentless pursuit of knowledge, her ability to collaborate effectively with industry and academia, and her commitment to fostering innovation in materials science. Her interdisciplinary approach and proactive engagement with stakeholders in the biobased industry position her as a leader in the field.

Publications & Laboratory Experience 🧪

With a robust publication record and hands-on laboratory experience, MBC has significantly contributed to the advancement of knowledge in polymer science. Her research on biodegradable materials and recycling technologies continues to inspire new methodologies and applications in the industry.

📖Publications:

Paper Title: Recyclability Perspectives of the Most Diffused Biobased and Biodegradable Plastic Materials

  • Authors: Coltelli, M.-B., Gigante, V., Aliotta, L., Lazzeri, A.
  • Journal: Macromol
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: A comprehensive characterization of Hermetia illucens derived chitosan produced through homogeneous deacetylation

  • Authors: Triunfo, M., Guarnieri, A., Ianniciello, D., De Bonis, A., Falabella, P.
  • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Sustainable 3D printed poly (lactic acid) (PLA)/Hazelnut shell powder bio composites for design applications

  • Authors: Aliotta, L., Sergi, C., Pont, B.D., Gigante, V., Lazzeri, A.
  • Journal: Materials Today Sustainability
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: A Sustainable Multistage Process for Immobilizing Bioactive Compounds on Layered Double Hydroxides

  • Authors: Coiai, S., Passaglia, E., Telleschi, A., Coltelli, M.-B., Cicogna, F.
  • Journal: Cosmetics
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Smart Tissue Carriers for Innovative Cosmeceuticals and Nutraceuticals

  • Authors: Morganti, P., Morganti, G., Chen, H.-D., Coltelli, M.-B., Gagliardini, A.
  • Journal: Cosmetics
  • Year: 2024

 

A C Hegde | Composite Materials Science | Excellence in Research

Professor. A Chitharanjan Hegde, Composite Materials Science, Excellence in Research

National Institute of Technology Karnataka, India

Professional Profiles:

Dr. A. Chitharanjan Hegde: A Distinguished Career in Physical Chemistry 🔬

Early Life and Education 🎓

Dr. A. Chitharanjan Hegde, a prominent figure in the field of physical chemistry, was born on July 22, 1964, in India. From a young age, he displayed a keen interest in science, particularly chemistry. His academic journey began at Mangalore University, where he completed his M.Sc. in Chemistry in 1989 with a specialization in physical chemistry, securing an impressive 66.7% score. Driven by a passion for research, he pursued a Ph.D. in Chemical Kinetics from the same university, earning his doctorate in 1993.

Professional Journey 🌟

Dr. Hegde’s professional career is marked by his extensive teaching and research experience. He began his teaching career as a temporary lecturer at Mangalore University in 1994. The following year, he joined the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal, as a permanent lecturer. Over the years, he climbed the academic ladder, becoming a senior grade lecturer in 1999, an assistant professor in 2002, an associate professor in 2006, and ultimately a full professor in 2010. His dedication and expertise also led him to serve as the head of the Department of Chemistry at NITK.

Specialization and Research Interests 🧪

Dr. Hegde’s specialization lies in physical chemistry, with a strong focus on electrodeposition of monolayer and multilayer alloy coatings, corrosion protective coatings, magnetoelectrodeposition, and sonoelectrodeposition. His research has significantly contributed to the development of advanced materials and coatings with enhanced properties for industrial applications.

Teaching Contributions 📚

Throughout his career, Dr. Hegde has been deeply involved in teaching a variety of subjects, including:

  • Physical Chemistry (I Sem. M.Sc. Chemistry)
  • Advanced Electrochemistry (IV Sem. M.Sc. Chemistry)
  • Advanced Instrumental Methods of Analysis (I Sem. M.Sc. Chemistry)
  • Physical Chemistry Lab (III Sem. M.Sc. Chemistry)
  • Instrumental Methods of Analysis Lab (B.Tech.)
  • Engineering Chemistry, Theory & Lab (B.Tech.)

Academic Awards and Recognitions 🏆

Dr. Hegde’s excellence in research has been recognized through several prestigious awards. He received the DST’s SERC Visiting Research Fellowship in 2004-05 and the University Research Fellowship from 1990 to 1992.

Guidance and Mentorship 👨‍🏫

Dr. Hegde has guided numerous students through their academic and research endeavors. He has supervised 10 B.E. projects, 13 M.Sc. dissertations, and a significant number of Ph.D. theses, with 7 awarded, 2 submitted, and 2 in progress. His mentorship has been instrumental in shaping the careers of many budding scientists.

Major Research Projects 💼

Dr. Hegde has successfully completed several funded research projects, including:

  1. Development of Nanostructured Multilayer Coatings for Industrial Applications (DST, Govt. of India, INR 29.78 Lakhs, 2007-10)
  2. Development of Nickel Nanocoatings for Better Corrosion and Tribological Properties (TEQIP, INR 2.50 Lakhs, 2007-08)
  3. Electrodeposition and Characterization by Electrochemical Methods of Analysis (TEQIP, MHRD, INR 0.15 Lakhs, 2005-06)
  4. Development and Characterization of Compositionally Modulated Multilayered Materials by Electrolytic Method (DST’s SERC Visiting Fellowship at IIT Kanpur, INR 0.28 Lakhs, 2004-05)
  5. Non-cyanide Electroplating of Zinc (NITK, INR 0.15 Lakhs, 2001-02)

Publications and Projects 📜

Dr. Hegde has been a prolific researcher, contributing to numerous publications and projects. His work on the electrodeposition and characterization of various alloy coatings has been widely recognized and published in reputed journals.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Hegde’s research has had a significant impact on the field of physical chemistry, particularly in the development of advanced materials with improved corrosion resistance and electrochemical properties. His contributions have not only advanced scientific knowledge but also provided practical solutions for industrial applications.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Dr. Hegde’s legacy in the field of physical chemistry is marked by his dedication to research, teaching, and mentorship. His work has paved the way for future innovations in material science and electrochemistry. As he continues to explore new frontiers in his research, his contributions are expected to inspire and guide future generations of scientists.

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