Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cornelia Vasile | bio-based materials | Best Paper Award
Senior researcher at Romanian Academy, “P.Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Romania
Dr. Cornelia Vasile is a highly acclaimed chemist and educator with over five decades of experience in physical chemistry, particularly in polymer science. She has made significant contributions to the characterization, recovery, and development of polymer materials. As a senior researcher and head of the Physical Chemistry of Polymers Department at the “P.Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry in Romania, Dr. Vasile has been instrumental in advancing polymer science research. She has also served as an associate professor at Laval University, Canada, and other prestigious institutions, mentoring MSc and PhD students. Her pioneering work has earned her multiple international awards, including medals at the “Inventica” symposia, highlighting her influence on material science and waste recovery.
Profile
🎓 Education
Dr. Cornelia Vasile holds a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry of Polymers from “Al.I. Cuza” University, awarded in 1971. She completed her undergraduate studies in chemistry at Bucharest University, Romania, graduating in 1966. Her doctoral research at the Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry laid the foundation for her expertise in polymer science, focusing on the chemical physics of polymers. Throughout her career, she has continuously expanded her knowledge through various fellowships and international collaborations.
💼 Experience
Dr. Vasile’s career spans nearly five decades at the “P.Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, where she worked as a senior researcher and later led the Physical Chemistry of Polymers Department. Her tenure included supervising numerous PhD theses and spearheading innovative research in polymer waste recovery, pyrolysis, and the development of eco-friendly packaging systems. She also collaborated with international institutions, including Laval University, Canada, and the University of Massachusetts, USA, contributing her expertise as a visiting expert. Her scientific collaborations have extended across Europe, North America, and Asia.
🔬 Research Interest
Dr. Vasile’s research interests encompass a broad range of topics in polymer science, including:
Thermal analysis of polymers
Biomaterials and biodegradable packaging
Polymer waste recovery through pyrolysis
Polymer compatibility and biocompatibility
Smart polymer systems for drug delivery
Bio(nano)composites for medical applications Her work aims to address environmental challenges by developing sustainable materials and innovative waste management techniques.
🏅 Awards
Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Vasile has received numerous awards, including:
“Bucharest University Award” (1965) – For outstanding student research on the kinetics of decomposition of metal complexes.
“N. Teclu Romanian Academy Prize” (1969) – Recognizing her contributions to the chemical sciences.
Gold and silver medals at international “Inventica” symposia (1986, 1987, 2004, 2005, 2008, 2016, 2017, 2018) for her patents on polymer waste recovery.
Excellence Diploma and Medal (2006) – For her contributions to the EUROATOM PC6 program of the European Commission.
Best Paper Award by Japan Society of Materials Cycles and Waste Management (2017) – For her publication on gas production by steam gasification of polypropylene/biomass waste composites.
📚 Selected Publications
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“Lignins as Promising Renewable Biopolymers and Bioactive Compounds for High-Performance Materials”
Journal: Polymers (2023), 15(15), 3177
Cited by: Multiple articles in sustainable polymer science. -
“Lignin Modification with Carboxylic Acids and Butyrolactone under Cold Plasma Conditions”
Journal: Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research (2013)
Cited by: Articles on polymer surface modifications and biomaterials. -
“Effect of the Lignin Type on the Morphology and Thermal Properties of Xanthan/Lignin Hydrogels”
Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules (2013)
Cited by: Studies on hydrogel applications in biomedicine. -
“Semi-interpenetrating Polymer Networks Containing Polysaccharides”
Journal: High Performance Polymers (2011)
Cited by: Research on polymer blends and controlled drug delivery. -
“In Vitro Evaluation of Mixed Xanthan/Lignin Hydrogels as Vanillin Carriers”
Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure (2011)
Cited by: Articles on polymeric hydrogels for drug delivery. -
“Thermal Degradation of Lignin – A Review”
Journal: Cellulose Chemistry and Technology (2010)
Cited by: 1314 citations, indicating its significant influence on lignin degradation research. -
“Polyolefins/Lignosulfonate Blends”
Journal: Macromolecular Materials and Engineering (2004)
Cited by: Articles on polymer-lignin composites and their applications.
✅ Conclusion
Dr. Cornelia Vasile is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Paper Award. Her outstanding scientific contributions, impactful publications, and multiple recognitions position her as a frontrunner. Her work on polymer waste recovery, eco-sustainable packaging, and lignocellulosic biopolymers exemplifies excellence in research, making her a strong contender for this prestigious accolade.