Zhenyan Xia | Engineering | New Horizons Science Invention Award

Mr. Zhenyan Xia | Engineering | New Horizons Science Invention Award

Associate Professor at Tianjin University, China

Xia Zhenyan is an Associate Professor at Tianjin University, specializing in fluid mechanics, molecular dynamics, and physical chemistry. With extensive experience in turbulent flow control, fluid flow instability, and micronano structures, he has led and contributed to 18+ research projects funded by prestigious national and industrial organizations, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and the 863 Program. His innovative research on superhydrophobic surfaces has introduced novel methods to reduce droplet contact time by 37%, with applications in engineering, coatings, and energy systems. He has published over 50 research papers in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to the advancement of his field.

Professional Profile

Education

Xia Zhenyan holds advanced degrees in mechanical engineering and fluid mechanics from Tianjin University. His academic training provided a strong foundation in theoretical modeling, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and materials science, shaping his research focus on fluid flow behavior and molecular interactions. His educational background has enabled him to bridge the gap between fundamental research and real-world applications, particularly in engineering solutions involving microfluidics, nanotechnology, and hydrophobic surface design.

Professional Experience

Currently serving as an Associate Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University, Xia Zhenyan is also the Deputy Director of the Department of Mechanics. His professional career is marked by multidisciplinary research collaborations in fluid dynamics, advanced materials, and computational modeling. As the Principal Investigator (PI) of multiple national research projects, he has played a key role in developing innovative solutions for industrial fluid mechanics challenges. His expertise extends to engineering applications for energy-efficient materials, hydrodynamics, and smart surface technology, making him a recognized leader in his field.

Research Interests

Xia Zhenyan’s research focuses on fluid mechanics, molecular dynamics, and physical chemistry, with a particular interest in turbulent flow control, fluid flow instability, and micronano-structured surfaces. His work explores the theoretical and engineering applications of molecular dynamics in fluid interactions, contributing to advancements in superhydrophobic coatings, energy-efficient materials, and microfluidics. A key aspect of his research involves developing novel techniques to reduce droplet contact time on surfaces, which has potential applications in biomedical engineering, aerospace, and industrial coatings. His interdisciplinary approach integrates computational simulations, experimental studies, and theoretical modeling, driving innovations in fluid behavior prediction, nanotechnology applications, and hydrodynamic performance enhancement.

Awards and Honors

Xia Zhenyan has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to fluid mechanics and molecular dynamics through multiple national and institutional awards. His research projects have received funding from prestigious organizations, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and the 863 Program, highlighting the significance of his work. His publications in high-impact journals such as Physics of Fluids and Computational Materials Science have earned him academic recognition. As a Principal Investigator (PI) of multiple groundbreaking projects, he has been honored for excellence in scientific innovation and engineering applications. Additionally, his role as Deputy Director of the Department of Mechanics at Tianjin University reflects his leadership in advancing mechanical engineering and fluid dynamics research.

Conclusion

Dr. Mohamed Kchaou is a highly deserving candidate for the Academic Excellence Recognition Award. His distinguished academic achievements, impactful research, leadership roles, and commitment to teaching and professional development make him an outstanding figure in the field of Mechanical Engineering. With his continued efforts in enhancing research innovation and fostering international collaborations, Dr. Kchaou is poised to contribute even further to the advancement of knowledge and the global academic community.

Publications Top Noted

  • Shi, H., Xu, H., Bai, Y., Xia, Z. (2025). The effect of superhydrophobic surfaces with circular ring on the contact time of droplet impact. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects. Citations: 0
  • Shi, H., Hou, X., Xu, H., Bai, Y., Xia, Z. (2024). An analysis of the contact time of nanodroplets impacting superhydrophobic surfaces with square ridges. Computational Materials Science. Citations: 0
  • Tai, Y., Xu, H., Bai, Y., Wang, S., Xia, Z. (2022). Experimental investigation of the impact of viscous droplets on superamphiphobic surfaces. Physics of Fluids, 34(2), 022101. Citations: 8
  • Yan, K., Guo, X., Xia, Z. (2021). The experimental study on the characteristics of turbulent boundary layer based on the PIV technology of non-uniform interrogation window. Chinese Journal of Applied Mechanics, 38(4), pp. 1293–1300. Citations: 2
  • Tai, Y., Zhao, Y., Guo, X., Wang, S., Xia, Z. (2021). Research on the contact time of a bouncing microdroplet with lattice Boltzmann method. Physics of Fluids, 33(4), 042011. Citations: 11
  • Xia, Z., Zhao, Y., Yang, Z., Wang, S., Wang, M. (2021). The simulation of droplet impact on the super-hydrophobic surface with micro-pillar arrays fabricated by laser irradiation and silanization processes. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 612, 125966. Citations: 22
  • Xia, Z., Xiao, Y., Yang, Z., Liu, X., Tian, Y. (2019). Droplet impact on the super-hydrophobic surface with micro-pillar arrays fabricated by hybrid laser ablation and silanization process. Materials, 12(5), 765. Citations: 27
  • Xia, Z., Li, Z., Li, J., Tian, Y. (2016). An experimental study on breakup characteristics of impinging jets. Journal of Tianjin University Science and Technology, 49(7), pp. 770–776. Citations: 6
  • Xu, L., Xia, Z., Zhang, M., Du, Q., Bai, F. (2015). Experimental research on breakup of 2D power law liquid film. Chinese Journal of Chemical Engineering, 23(9), pp. 1429–1439. Citations: 3
  • Li, J.-J., Xia, Z.-Y., Tian, Y. (2015). Experiment on breakup mechanism of impinging jet of power-law liquid. Journal of Aerospace Power, 30(7), pp. 1752–1758. Citations: 1

Mohamed Kchaou | Engineering | Academic Excellence Recognition Award

Prof. Dr. Mohamed Kchaou | Engineering | Academic Excellence Recognition Award

Professeur at Department of Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Bisha, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Mohamed Kchaou is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bisha, Saudi Arabia, specializing in sustainability and research. He holds an impressive academic background, with an h-index of 21 and significant professional achievements, including a nomination for Full Membership in Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society. His work has earned him recognition as one of the top 5 scientists at the University of Bisha in 2025, ranked first in Engineering & Technology. In addition to his academic roles, he contributes to international relations, scientific research, and graduate studies. He has worked in various international institutions and is recognized for his leadership in the academic and research communities, particularly in mechanical engineering, tribology, and innovation.

Professional Profile

Education 

Dr. Kchaou earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the Ecole Centrale of Lille (France) and the University of Sfax (Tunisia) in 2010. His thesis focused on the coupling friction oxidation effect on the wear of H13 steel, specifically for hot forging applications. He completed his Master’s degree in Mechanics and Engineering from the National School of Engineers of Sfax in 2007, where he studied performance and damage in a copper alloy under torsion fatigue. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s in Electromechanical Engineering from the National School of Engineers of Sfax in 2006. His educational foundation laid the groundwork for his expertise in tribology, sustainability, and materials science.

Professional Experience

Dr. Kchaou holds a distinguished academic career, currently serving as a full Professor at the University of Bisha, where he also plays an integral role as a Consultant to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research. His leadership in international relations and research partnerships has made significant impacts on the university. Previously, he served as the Vice-Dean at the Higher Institute of Arts and Crafts of Sfax and has been involved with several prestigious universities across Europe, including in France, Spain, and Turkey. Throughout his career, he has held various positions ranging from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor, delivering impactful courses in materials science, industrial management, and mechanical engineering at different international institutions. Dr. Kchaou’s diverse academic and administrative roles reflect his expertise and commitment to advancing engineering education and research.

Research Interests

Dr. Mohamed Kchaou’s research primarily focuses on sustainability, tribology, and the performance of materials in mechanical engineering. His work explores the friction oxidation effects on wear and tear, especially in the context of hot forging applications, aiming to improve the durability and efficiency of materials under extreme conditions. He is also interested in the development and optimization of new materials, particularly in relation to mechanical behavior and damage tolerance under different loading conditions. Dr. Kchaou’s expertise spans multiple aspects of materials science, including fatigue behavior, wear mechanisms, and the interplay between mechanical properties and environmental factors. He has a keen interest in applying these insights to various industries, such as automotive and manufacturing, to promote energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable solutions. His research contributes to advancing both theoretical knowledge and practical applications in materials engineering and mechanical systems.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Mohamed Kchaou has earned numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout his academic career. Notably, he has been nominated for Full Membership in Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society, recognizing his significant contributions to the field of mechanical engineering. In 2025, he was ranked as one of the top 5 scientists at the University of Bisha, securing the first position in the Engineering & Technology category. Dr. Kchaou’s h-index of 21 is a testament to the impact and relevance of his research in the scientific community. Furthermore, he has been recognized for his leadership and academic excellence, particularly for his significant contributions to international collaborations in research and higher education. His ability to bridge academic expertise with real-world challenges has made him a prominent figure in the engineering field, particularly in the domains of sustainability and tribology.

Conclusion

Dr. Mohamed Kchaou is a highly deserving candidate for the Academic Excellence Recognition Award. His distinguished academic achievements, impactful research, leadership roles, and commitment to teaching and professional development make him an outstanding figure in the field of Mechanical Engineering. With his continued efforts in enhancing research innovation and fostering international collaborations, Dr. Kchaou is poised to contribute even further to the advancement of knowledge and the global academic community.

Publications Top Noted

  • Oily wastewater treatment: Overview of conventional and modern methods, challenges, and future opportunities
    Authors: K Abuhasel, M Kchaou, M Alquraish, Y Munusamy, YT Jeng
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 249
  • An overview of green corrosion inhibitors for sustainable and environment friendly industrial development
    Authors: N Hossain, M Asaduzzaman Chowdhury, M Kchaou
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 198
  • Friction characteristics of a brake friction material under different braking conditions
    Authors: M Kchaou, A Sellami, R Elleuch, H Singh
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 103
  • Steam explosion as sustainable biomass pretreatment technique for biofuel production: Characteristics and challenges
    Authors: AT Hoang, XP Nguyen, XQ Duong, Ü Ağbulut, C Len, PQP Nguyen, …
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 97
  • Surface characterization and mechanical behavior of aluminum based metal matrix composite reinforced with nano Al2O3, SiC, TiO2 particles
    Authors: MBA Shuvho, MA Chowdhury, M Kchaou, BK Roy, A Rahman, MA Islam
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 91
  • Experimental investigation on the tribo-thermal properties of brake friction materials containing various forms of graphite: a comparative study
    Authors: S Manoharan, R Vijay, D Lenin Singaravelu, M Kchaou
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 89
  • Squealing characteristics of worn brake pads due to silica sand embedment into their friction layers
    Authors: ARM Lazim, M Kchaou, MKA Hamid, ARA Bakar
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 70
  • Experimental studies of friction-induced brake squeal: influence of environmental sand particles in the interface brake pad-disc
    Authors: M Kchaou, ARM Lazim, MKA Hamid, ARA Bakar
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 69
  • Failure mechanisms of H13 die on relation to the forging process–A case study of brass gas valves
    Authors: M Kchaou, R Elleuch, Y Desplanques, X Boidin, G Degallaix
    Year: 2010
    Citations: 69
  • Development and performance evaluation of eco-friendly crab shell powder based brake pads for automotive applications
    Authors: DL Singaravelu, R Vijay, S Manoharan, M Kchaou
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 63
  • Study of the interaction between microstructure, mechanical and tribo-performance of a commercial brake lining material
    Authors: A Sellami, M Kchaou, R Elleuch, AL Cristol, Y Desplanques
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 60
  • 3D-printed objects for multipurpose applications
    Authors: N Hossain, MA Chowdhury, MBA Shuvho, MA Kashem, M Kchaou
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 46
  • Water absorption and mechanical behaviour of green fibres and particles acting as reinforced hybrid composite materials
    Authors: M Kchaou, SJ Arul, A Athijayamani, P Adhikary, S Murugan, FK Aldawood, …
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 43
  • Investigation on tribological and corrosion characteristics of oxide-coated steel and mild steel fiber-based brake friction composites
    Authors: S Manoharan, R Vijay, M Kchaou
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 34
  • Surface disinfection to protect against microorganisms: Overview of traditional methods and issues of emergent nanotechnologies
    Authors: M Kchaou, K Abuhasel, M Khadr, F Hosni, M Alquraish
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 32