Yun Liu | Material Science | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Yun Liu | Material Science | Research Excellence Award 

Ms. Yun Liu | Beihua University | China

Yun Liu is a materials researcher affiliated with Beihua University, specializing in wood protection, wood anatomy, and weather-resistant material modification. With a strong academic foundation supported by a Master’s degree in Materials and Chemical Engineering, Yun Liu has developed expertise in material characterization, performance testing, and advanced analytical techniques used to evaluate structural, chemical, and aesthetic changes in lignocellulosic materials. A key contribution of Yun Liu’s work is the innovative investigation into the dynamic weathering behavior of heat-treated wood. This research integrates continuous monitoring of visual and structural degradation with in-depth chemical analysis, offering a holistic framework for understanding the durability of modified wood materials. By correlating changes in color, gloss, and surface properties with transformations in lignin, extractives, and microstructural features, the study provides essential insights into how heat treatment influences early-stage weathering. Importantly, the findings reveal that heat treatment adjusts the degradation pathways of lignin, contributing to enhanced color stability rather than merely slowing chemical deterioration. This mechanistic understanding supports the development of targeted modification strategies for improving the long-term service life and aesthetic performance of outdoor wood products. Yun Liu has published as first author in the journal Polymers, where the study on dynamic weathering of heat-treated Chinese fir highlights the scientific and practical relevance of this research. This work establishes a foundation for future advancements in sustainable wood protection technologies and environmentally conscious material engineering. Committed to academic integrity and professional growth, Yun Liu maintains active research links through recognized scholarly platforms and contributes to the broader scientific community through collaboration and knowledge dissemination. With a focus on innovation, material durability, and eco-friendly wood modification, Yun Liu aims to advance high-impact research aligned with the standards of the Research Excellence Award category.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Liu, Y., Gao, C., Wang, Q., Hadili, B., Miao, Y., Cui, X., & Matsumura, J. (2025). Dynamic weathering behavior of heat-treated Chinese fir: Surface properties, chemical composition, and microstructure. Polymers, 17(23), 3143. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17233143

Mahesh Kumar Sah | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mahesh Kumar Sah | Material Science | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Mahesh Kumar Sah | Meerut Institute of Engineering and Technology | India

Dr. Mahesh Kumar Sah is a dedicated mechanical engineering professional with robust expertise in nano-finishing, surface engineering, composite materials, coating technology, image analysis, and design of experiments. With a Ph.D. from SRM Institute of Science and Technology, he brings a strong blend of academic, research, and industrial-oriented experience. His technical proficiency spans AutoCAD, SolidWorks, MATLAB, Origin, Minitab, and MS Office, enabling him to execute high-precision research and engineering tasks effectively. Dr. Sah has over six years of academic experience as an Assistant Professor at Siddartha Institute of Science and Technology, AP, where he handled a wide range of subjects including Engineering Mechanics, CAD/CAM, Robotics, Thermal Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, and Metrology. He also supervised laboratories, coordinated academic programs, and managed responsibilities related to seminars, projects, NBA/NAAC documentation, and student administration. Currently, he serves as a Project Associate-II at NIT Jalandhar, contributing to advanced mechanical engineering research. His research contributions include multiple SCI-indexed publications in reputable journals such as Materials and Manufacturing Processes, Canadian Metallurgical Quarterly, and Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance. His work primarily focuses on CNC abrasive finishing, reflective polishing, nano-finishing processes, and optical characterization of materials. He has also authored book chapters and reviewed research manuscripts for leading journals. Dr. Sah is the co-inventor of a filed patent titled “A System for Mirror-Like Reflective Surface Finishing on Metallic Cylindrical Workpiece” and has presented his research at several national and international conferences. He has completed NPTEL and FDP courses in surface engineering, machine learning, sustainability, nanotechnology, and entrepreneurship. Recognized with the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Research Award, Dr. Sah is a motivated researcher and educator committed to advancing mechanical engineering, fostering innovation, and contributing meaningfully to academia and industry.

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Featured Publications

Sah, M. K., Vijaya, A., & Singh, H. (2025). Nanofinishing of aluminum sheet using CNC fixed abrasive lapping. Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11665-025-10886-3

Sah, M. K., Vijaya, A., & Singh, H. (2025). A novel CNC abrasive finishing process of aluminium pipe for industrial applications. Canadian Metallurgical Quarterly. https://doi.org/10.1080/00084433.2025.2582355

Sah, M. K., Vijaya, A., & Singh, H. (2025). Experimental study of the surface finishing of CNC magnetic abrasive finishing based on ANN. Canadian Metallurgical Quarterly. https://doi.org/10.1080/00084433.2024.2415726

Sah, M. K., & Vijaya, A. (2024). Optimizing highly reflective CNC abrasive polishing on aluminum sheets. Materials and Manufacturing Processes. https://doi.org/10.1080/10426914.2024.2304867

Sah, M. K., & Vijaya, A. (2023). Experimental studies on reflective finishing of aluminum sheet by CNC abrasive lapping. Materials and Manufacturing Processes. https://doi.org/10.1080/10426914.2023.2244034