Ntalane Sello Seroka | Nanomaterials | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ntalane Sello Seroka, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, South Africa.

Ntalane Sello Seroka is a passionate PhD candidate in the Department of Chemistry at the University of the Western Cape, South Africa. With a keen interest in green synthesis and nanomaterials, he focuses on developing innovative solutions for energy storage and bioenergy conversion. Ntalane is an active contributor to scientific research, with numerous publications and ongoing projects that aim to harness biomass for sustainable applications. His work reflects a commitment to advancing renewable energy technologies and addressing environmental challenges.

Publication profile

Scopus

Googlescholar

Education and Experience

BSc in Physical Sciences
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, GaRankuwa, South Africa (2015)
BSc Hons in Chemistry
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, GaRankuwa, South Africa (2016)
MSc in Chemistry
University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa (2018)
Advisor: Prof. M.A Mamo
Ph.D. in Chemistry (in view)
University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa (2019-2022)
Thesis: “Green synthesis of novel polycrystalline silicon semiconductor thin film material from sugarcane bagasse ash for solar application”
Advisor: Prof. L. Khotseng

Suitability For The Award

Dr. Ntalane Sello Seroka is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award, currently pursuing her PhD in the Department of Chemistry at the University of the Western Cape. Her research focuses on the innovative use of biomass for sustainable energy solutions, making significant contributions to the field of nanomaterials and energy storage. Notably, her work in synthesizing silicon-based materials from agricultural waste demonstrates her commitment to advancing green technology and addressing critical environmental challenges.

Professional Development

Ntalane has made significant strides in his professional development as a researcher and educator. He has served as a reviewer for academic journals, including Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery, and has participated as an invited speaker at international conferences. Ntalane has also engaged with the community through radio interviews and guest editing for various publications. Currently, he is a postdoctoral fellow at the CSIR, focusing on battery research in South Africa. His accolades include winning a prize in an international youth innovation competition and being nominated for various prestigious awards.

Research Focus

Ntalane’s research is primarily centered on the development of nanomaterials for energy applications. He explores innovative methods for synthesizing nanostructures from biomass, aiming to improve energy storage solutions in batteries and fuel cells. His work also delves into catalytic nanomaterials for biomass conversion to bioenergy and the electrochemical properties of these materials. By focusing on sustainable practices, Ntalane seeks to address environmental challenges and contribute to the advancement of renewable energy technologies.

Awards and Honors

First Prize in “Beautiful China, Dynamic HUZHOU” Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition (African Division)
Nominated for the Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN) Prize 2024
Nominated for online viewer at Global Young Scientist Singapore 2023

Publications

Green synthesis of silica and silicon from agricultural residue sugarcane bagasse ash – a mini review | LA September, N Kheswa, NS Seroka, L Khotseng | RSC Advances 13 (2), 1370-1380 | Cited by: 42 | Year: 2023
Extraction and synthesis of silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) from sugarcane bagasse ash: a mini-review | NS Seroka, RT Taziwa, L Khotseng | Applied Sciences 12 (5), 2310 | Cited by: 26 | Year: 2022
Hydrogen production, storage, and transportation: recent advances | MM Rampai, CB Mtshali, NS Seroka, L Khotseng | RSC Advances 14 (10), 6699-6718 | Cited by: 24 | Year: 2024
Solar energy materials-evolution and niche applications: a literature review | NS Seroka, R Taziwa, L Khotseng | Materials 15 (15), 5338 | Cited by: 23 | Year: 2022
Application of functionalised MXene-carbon nanoparticle-polymer composites in resistive hydrostatic pressure sensors | NS Seroka, MA Mamo | SN Applied Sciences 2 (3), 413 | Cited by: 23 | Year: 2020
Green synthesis of crystalline silica from sugarcane bagasse ash: physico-chemical properties | NS Seroka, R Taziwa, L Khotseng | Nanomaterials 12 (13), 2184 | Cited by: 18 | Year: 2022
Catalytic Properties of Biochar as Support Material Potential for Direct Methanol Fuel Cell: A Review | ED Visser, NS Seroka, L Khotseng | ACS Omega 8 (44), 40972-40981 | Cited by: 7 | Year: 2023

Abhijeet Popat Khandagale | Nanomaterials | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Abhijeet Popat Khandagale, Vidya Pratishthan’s Kamalnayan Bajaj Institute of Engineering and Technology , India.

Mr. Abhijeet Popat Khandagale is a passionate Assistant Professor with 14 years of experience in the field of education. His expertise spans teaching and research in engineering chemistry and nanomaterials. With a commitment to student success, he strives to foster academic excellence and innovation. Currently serving at Vidya Pratishthan’s Kamalnayan Bajaj Institute of Engineering and Technology, Baramati, he has a strong interest in conducting polymers and nanocomposites. His goal is to contribute to academic and research progress, making a positive impact on students’ careers.

Education and Experience

PhD – Savitribai Phule Pune University

NET – CSIR, UGC 2009

M.Sc. Chemistry – Fergusson College, Pune (2009)

B.Sc. Chemistry – V.P. College Baramati (2007)

Assistant Professor – Vidya Pratishthan’s KBIE&T, Baramati (2023–Present)

Assistant Professor – SB Patil College of Engineering, Indapur (2014–2023)

Assistant Professor – Dattakala Faculty of Engineering (2010–2014)

Lecturer – Chate Coaching Classes, Pune (2009–2010)

Suitability for The Award

Mr. Abhijeet Popat Khandagale’s extensive experience in academia, research in nanocomposites, and contributions to the field of chemistry make him a strong contender for the Best Researcher title. With over 14 years of teaching experience, he has demonstrated consistent commitment to the academic and professional development of students, while also conducting impactful research in areas such as nanomaterials and adsorption.

Professional Development ()

Mr. Khandagale has actively participated in various faculty development programs, workshops, and conferences. His contributions to national and international symposia on nanotechnology, gas sensing, and interdisciplinary science reflect his dedication to academic growth and scientific research. He has also coordinated several student induction programs and served as an NSS Program Officer, demonstrating strong leadership in both academic and extracurricular spheres. His continuous pursuit of knowledge in nanomaterials and his commitment to academic integrity exemplify his dedication to professional excellence.

Research Focus

Mr. Khandagale’s research interests lie in the field of Conducting Polymers, Metal Oxide Nanocomposites, and Nanomaterials. His work revolves around the synthesis and study of materials for gas sensing and adsorption, with a keen focus on enhancing sensor performance using smart materials like NiO-Polyaniline composites. His contributions include poster presentations and published research in peer-reviewed international journals, specifically exploring the applications of these materials in environmental monitoring and sensor technology. His research combines innovation and practicality, aiming for solutions that address real-world challenges.

Awards and Honors ()

1st Prize – Science Exhibition, Fergusson College (2008)
2nd Prize – Science Exhibition, Fergusson College (2009)
Presented Poster – RTPCB 2016 National Conference
1st Prize – Science Exhibition, Fergusson College Pune (2008)
Best Research Paper – Published in Springer Journal (2024)

Publication

Publication: Nanostructured NiO-polyaniline fibers composite smart material as a room temperature ammonia sensor
Authors: Abhijeet Khandagale, Dnyaneshwar Shinde, Yogesh Patil, Kisan Gadave
Journal: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics
Cited by: (not specified)
Year: 2024