Florence Acha | Fiber Reinforcement in Composites | Innovative Research Award

Ms. Florence Acha | Fiber Reinforcement in Composites | Innovative Research Award

Research Assistant at University of Massachusetts Lowell, United States

Florence Nkemamaka Acha is a dedicated researcher and academic in the field of polymer engineering. She specializes in polymer science, nanotechnology, coatings, and biomaterials. With a strong background in both industry and academia, she has contributed significantly to the advancement of superhydrophobic and oil-repellent coatings. Her career encompasses research, teaching, and industrial experience, positioning her as an emerging expert in material science applications.

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Education

Florence is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Plastics Engineering at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, focusing on the development of PFAS-free coatings for textile applications. She previously earned an M.Eng. in Plastics Engineering with honors and a B.Eng. in Polymer and Textile Engineering, graduating with first-class honors from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria. Her academic journey has been marked by excellence, reflected in her high academic standing and various awards.

Experience

Florence has served as a Research Assistant at both the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, and Igwe Isaac Laboratory in Nigeria, where she contributed to research on polymer composites and coatings. She also worked as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, guiding students in laboratory experiments and academic learning. Additionally, her industrial experience includes roles as a Production Intern and Business Development Officer, where she gained hands-on expertise in polymer processing, plastic manufacturing, and industrial coatings.

Research Interests

Her research focuses on polymer engineering, nanomanufacturing, composites, coatings, and biomaterials. She is particularly interested in developing sustainable and high-performance materials for textile applications, contributing to advancements in material science and environmental sustainability.

Awards

Florence has received multiple prestigious awards, including the Best Researcher Award for Superhydrophobic Coatings (2025), the Best Graduating Student Award in Polymer and Textile Engineering (2019), and the IBE MIT Alumni Award. She has also been recognized for her leadership and academic excellence through various scholarships and honors.

Publications

Acha, F. et al. (2025). An Approach of Manufacturing High-Molecular-Weight CNT-Filled Epoxy Composite. Materials. Cited in [number] articles.

Scheff, T. et al. (2025). Tuning Wetting Properties Through Surface Geometry in the Cassie-Baxter State. Biomimetics. Cited in [number] articles.

Scheff, T. et al. (2025). Design and Synthesis of Fe3O4 -Loaded Polymer Microspheres with Controlled Morphology. Polymers Journal. Cited in [number] articles.

Igwe, I. O. & Acha, F. (2021). Utilization of Granite Quarry Dust Extender in Formulating Anti-Corrosive Paints for Steel Protection. Australian Journal of Science and Technology. Cited in [number] articles.

Acha, F. (2024). Cleaning of Paints. In The Science and Technology of Paints. Book Chapter. Cited in [number] articles.

Igwe, I. O., Acha, F., et al. (2020). Formulation of Anti-Corrosive Alkyd Paints Based on Umuahia Clay Extender. SSRG International Journal of Polymer and Textile Engineering. Cited in [number] articles.

Fesojaye, I. S., Dada, F., & Acha, F. (2023). Innovative Applications of Nanomaterials in Semiconductor Manufacturing. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews. Cited in [number] articles.

Conclusion

Florence Nkemamaka Acha is an outstanding candidate for the Research for Innovative Research Award. Her contributions to polymer engineering, her innovative research on environmentally friendly coatings, and her leadership in academic and professional circles make her a deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition.

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.