Dr. Sahar Kafashi | Material Processing Techniques | Excellence in Research Award

Murdoch University | Australia

Dr. Sahar Kafashi is an accomplished mining engineer, researcher, and industry professional whose expertise spans mineral processing, drilling and blasting engineering, hydrometallurgy, and advanced techniques for environmentally sustainable mineral extraction. She currently contributes to research and operational excellence through her engineering role within the global mining sector while simultaneously advancing academic research in collaboration with Murdoch University, CSIRO, and industry partners. Dr. Kafashi’s work focuses on innovative in-situ recovery technologies for metals from impermeable hard rocks, exploring advanced crack-inducing techniques such as microwave radiation, high-voltage pulse stimulation, and cryogenic fluid treatment to enhance rock permeability and improve the efficiency and environmental performance of resource recovery. Her research contributes to the development of sustainable extraction pathways for critical minerals and rare earth elements, addressing industrial challenges associated with energy consumption, processing cost, and recovery efficiency. She has authored multiple peer-reviewed journal articles and international conference papers, with her published research currently achieving 125 citations referenced by 105 citing documents, supported by an h-index of 5 and an i10-index of 3, demonstrating the growing academic recognition of her scientific contributions. Dr. Kafashi has accumulated extensive technical experience across leading mining organizations including large-scale operations and metallurgical laboratories, working on drill-and-blast optimization, vibration control strategies, production planning, ore blending, and experimental evaluation of rock treatment methods. Her professional background further includes roles in consultancy, international sales, laboratory supervision, and research project execution. She is an active contributor to conferences, professional training programs, and international workshops, and holds memberships in multiple prestigious scientific and engineering organizations. Known for integrating industrial problem-solving with scientific innovation, Dr. Kafashi is committed to advancing sustainable engineering technologies, supporting STEM excellence, and contributing meaningful research that strengthens global mining and resource recovery industries.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications

Kafashi, S., Rasaei, M., & Karimi, G. (2017). Effects of sugarcane and polyanionic cellulose on rheological properties of drilling mud: An experimental approach. Egyptian Journal of Petroleum, 26(2), 371–374.

K., Sahar., & … (2021). Visual study of TiO₂ nanofluid stabilization methods on inhibition of asphaltene precipitation in porous media. Minerals Engineering, 169.

Kafashi, S., Kuhar, L., Bóna, A., & Nikoloski, A. N. (2023). Review of fracturing techniques (microwaves, high-voltage pulses, and cryogenic fluids) for application as access creation method in low-permeability hard rocks for potential … Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy Review, 1–16.

Kafashi, S., Rasaei, M. R., & Karimi, G. R. (2020). Experimental study of nanoclay absorbents and additives’ effects on modification of rheological properties of drilling fluids in porous media using glass micromodel. Journal of Porous Media, 23(6).

Kafashi, S., Taghdimi, R., & Karimi, G. (2014). Modification of nanoclay systems: An approach to stabilizing drilling fluids. Advanced Materials Research, 829, 818–824.

Ms. Lihong DING | Material Processing Techniques | Best Researcher Award

Jiangsu University of Technology | China

Ms. Lihong Ding is an accomplished researcher and experimenter in the field of mechanical engineering, currently serving at Jiangsu University of Technology, where she plays a key role in advancing laboratory instruction, engineering innovation, and collaborative research initiatives. With strong academic training in mechanical engineering and extensive hands-on laboratory experience, she has established herself as a dedicated educator and emerging researcher contributing to the development of advanced manufacturing processes and high-performance materials. Her work centers on laser cladding additive manufacturing, with a particular focus on structural integrity, crack arrest mechanisms, and material performance enhancement for demanding industrial environments, including aerospace and high-strength engineering systems. Ms. Ding has authored multiple research publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals, including core and SCI-indexed articles, demonstrating her commitment to academic excellence and knowledge dissemination. Among her notable scientific contributions is her research on the crack arrest effect of FeMnNiSi-Inconel625-Ni60 laminated structures produced through laser cladding additive manufacturing, which provides valuable insight into process-structure-property relationships and improved crack resistance for advanced gradient materials. She has participated in collaborative education initiatives supported by national academic-industry innovation platforms and has contributed to research project development related to emerging engineering applications. In addition to her scientific achievements, she has authored educational materials, including the professional training book “CNC Lathe Skill Training and Competition Question Selection,” supporting skills development and technical education for engineering students. Through her dedication to experimental teaching, research supervision, and laboratory innovation, Ms. Ding continues to foster strong academic-industry integration and advancement in next-generation manufacturing technologies. Her work reflects a commitment to excellence, professional development, and meaningful scientific impact, positioning her as a promising researcher and valued contributor to the mechanical engineering community.

Profile: Orcid