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Yuanmin Zou is a Doctoral Researcher at Aalto University's School of Chemical Engineering, Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering. Their academic work focuses on hydrometallurgy and corrosion research. Research interests include: Sustainable battery recycling processes Hydrometallurgical metal recovery Chemical interactions in leaching systems Environmental impact mitigation in metallurgy Resource recovery from industrial black mass Recent publications (2022-2025) demonstrate expertise in lithium-ion battery recycling, metal separation techniques, and environmental chemistry applications. Key themes include optimization of acid leaching processes, precipitation-based purification methods, and sustainable resource recovery from mixed battery materials. Laboratory affiliation includes Aalto University's Hydrometallurgy and Corrosion research group.

• Metallurgy
• Sustainable Metallurgy
• Chemical Engineering
• +3 more

Sami Virolainen is a Research Professor and Head of the Department of Separation Technology at LUT University's School of Engineering Sciences. His work focuses on hydrometallurgy, particularly in metal separation processes critical for the green transition and resource recovery. Education: LUT University (Chemical Engineering diploma, PhD in 2009) Research interests span separation technology for battery material recycling, rare earth element recovery, and applications in water purification, biorefinery, and Power-to-X technology. His department investigates resource-efficient methods for critical metals like cobalt, nickel, and lithium. Recent publications emphasize sustainable metallurgy , including solvent extraction, ion exchange, and nanofiltration techniques for battery waste and industrial byproducts. Key areas include multi-metal recovery , acid recycling , and rare earth purification . Virolainen leads cross-disciplinary collaborations under LUT's SCI-MAT platform, integrating separation science with economics and sustainability. He advocates for European self-sufficiency in critical metals while acknowledging market-driven challenges. Based in Lappeenranta, he has spent over two decades at LUT University, starting as a chemical engineering student in 2001. His department operates across LUT's geographical locations, including Lappeenranta, Lahti, Mikkeli, and Kouvolan campuses. Outside academia, Virolainen is connected to regional sports culture as a lifelong supporter of Finnish hockey teams like Mikkelin Jukurit and SaiPa, and currently involved with youth basketball through Catz Lappeenranta.

• Hydrometallurgy
• Chemical Engineering
• Metal Separation
• +7 more

Rauno Sairinen is Professor of Environmental Policy at the University of Eastern Finland's Department of History and Geography, Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Administration. He directs the RESOURCE research community focused on sustainable resource societies and serves as Adjunct Professor at the University of Queensland's Centre for Social Responsibility in Mining. His work spans environmental governance, mining sustainability, and social impact assessment, leading 36 projects and currently serving as Work Package leader in EU-funded initiatives like GOVERMAT, IMP@CT, and CORE. Research Groups: CEMMS (Center for Social Science Mining Research), Global Development, SOBIO (Social Science Bioeconomy Research Network), Environmental Culture Research Network Current Projects: MILESTONE (2022-2026), SUMET (2024-2027) His research integrates mining governance, circular economy transitions, and social sustainability. Recent publications examine critical raw materials in electric vehicles, small-scale mining in post-conflict regions, and industrial heritage transformations. Key themes include stakeholder engagement, policy harmonization, and sustainable resource extraction frameworks. Sairinen's 15 most recent articles (2024-2018) span environmental policy, mining governance, and social sustainability. Topics include battery metal recycling, bioeconomy transitions, and cultural heritage preservation, with methodologies ranging from case studies to transdisciplinary reviews. He has collaborated with researchers across Finland, Australia, and Europe, focusing on policy development for responsible mining. Current affiliations include the Geological Survey of Finland's Board (2017-2019) and leadership in academic networks addressing sustainability transitions.

• Environmental Policy
• Natural Resource Governance
• Sustainability Transitions
• +4 more

Daniel Peña Torres is a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Built Environment, specializing in Water and Environmental Engineering. His research focuses on sustainable resource management, particularly the water-energy-food nexus, multi-objective optimization, and environmental impact analysis. He explores systems engineering approaches to address complex sustainability challenges, including climate resilience and resource efficiency. His work includes studies on electric vehicle impacts in Chile and lithium-ion battery recycling feasibility in metropolitan regions. He employs process systems engineering (PSE) methodologies and conducts literature reviews to advance nexus system design. Key research trends involve multi-criteria decision-making, lifecycle assessments, and interdisciplinary frameworks for sustainable infrastructure. While no awards or grants are explicitly mentioned, his contributions highlight innovative approaches to nexus system optimization and environmental sustainability.

• Water-Energy-Food Nexus
• Sustainability Engineering
• Systems Optimization
• +3 more

Jarkko Levänen is an Associate Professor of Sustainability Science at LUT University’s School of Energy Systems, based in Lahti, Finland. He leads the Master’s programme in Circular Economy and teaches courses on sustainability transitions and ecological economics. His research focuses on socio-ecological models, strong sustainability, and systemic transitions across sectors such as energy, textiles, and resource management. He chairs multiple national and international projects, including the Academy of Finland-funded ‘Sustainable textile systems’ project and the EU Horizon-funded ‘Prosumer-driven green energy communities’ initiative. Levänen’s work integrates policy analysis, institutional frameworks, and stakeholder collaboration. He explores topics like carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS), circular business models, and the socio-economic dimensions of sustainability transitions. He has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles in sustainability science, environmental policy, and innovation studies, earning the ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant. He holds leadership roles in national committees such as Future Earth Finland and the Federation of Finnish Learned Societies (TSV). At LUT, he serves on the board of the Sustainable Circulation of Inorganic Materials (SCIMAT) research platform and the Ethics Committee for Human Sciences. Previously, he chaired the Finnish Society for Environmental Social Science (YHYS) and advised the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS). Levänen’s projects address global challenges like decentralized energy systems, textile circularity, and climate policy frameworks. His research emphasizes institutional voids, policy stagnation, and innovative solutions in resource-constrained contexts, reflecting his commitment to just and equitable sustainability transitions.

• Sustainability Science
• Environmental Policy
• Circular Economy
• +5 more

Michael Hummel is Associate Professor at Aalto University's School of Chemical Engineering, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems. His research focuses on sustainable biopolymer chemistry, cellulose processing, and development of renewable materials from natural resources. Hummel leads research on advanced cellulose fiber technologies including the Ioncell process for eco-friendly textile production. His recent work includes developing dope-dyed Lyocell fibers, recycling post-consumer textiles into new materials, creating multifunctional cellulose textiles, and pioneering medical textiles for wound care applications. Research spans fundamental chemistry of biomass conversion to applied material development, with emphasis on circular economy principles. Hummel's publications demonstrate advancements in sustainable materials science, particularly in cellulose chemistry, fiber engineering, lignin valorization, and green chemistry applications for textiles and advanced materials.

• Biopolymer Chemistry
• Sustainable Materials
• Cellulose Processing
• +1 more

Teppo Vienamo is a Lecturer in the Department of Design, specializing in industrial design, materials, and prototyping. He teaches in the Aaltonaut minor program at Design Factory, focusing on multidisciplinary product development. His research emphasizes sustainable manufacturing technologies and innovative material applications. Recent work includes studies on rotational molding techniques for battery enclosures, circular economy solutions for plastics, and structural design of industrial components. Research interests span product development, materials science, and manufacturing processes with a focus on environmental sustainability and industrial applications. Key projects involve collaborations on battery covers, food industry pallets, and safety-critical components like reactors and pressure vessels. Publications highlight advancements in material innovation, aerodynamic design, and structural integrity across automotive, energy, and food sectors. Active involvement in Design Factory underscores his commitment to bridging academic research with industry-relevant solutions.

• Industrial Design
• Materials Science
• Manufacturing Technology
• +2 more

Pekka Peljo is an Associate Professor at Aalto University's Department of Chemistry and Materials Science, leading the Physical Electrochemistry and Electrochemical Physics (PhysElectrochemPhys) research group since September 2018. His work focuses on charge transfer mechanisms at solid-liquid interfaces and within solid materials, with a strong emphasis on developing advanced batteries for large-scale energy storage. Education: Master's degree in Engineering and Technology from Helsinki University of Technology His research bridges Electrochemistry and Energy Storage , particularly in Redox Flow Batteries and Hydrogen Production via hydrocarbon electrolysis. Current projects include computational modeling of redox potentials, experimental flow battery designs, and scalable synthesis of cellulose nanocrystals for electrochemical applications. Selected trends from his 75+ publications include Electron Transfer at interfaces, Operando Battery Monitoring , and Sustainable Energy solutions. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for climate action and affordable clean energy. Scientific contributions are recognized through grants from the Academy of Finland, EU Horizon Europe, and strategic funding for projects like CompBat (2020-2023) and H2fromHE (2024-2028). He has presented at international conferences (e.g., ELCAT, Spain, 2011) and hosted collaborations with institutions like EPFL. As Principal Investigator, Peljo leads projects such as PREDICTOR (2024-2028) for high-throughput screening of battery materials and Bi3BoostFlowBat (2025-2026). His group also investigates Hydrogen Production from natural gas and Vitamin B6-based Electrolytes for aqueous batteries.

• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage
• Flow Batteries
• +5 more

Anna Lähde is a Professor in Aerosol Technology at the Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland. She leads the Sustainable Materials Group at the Fine Particle and Aerosol Technology Laboratory . Her work focuses on the synthesis and characterization of sustainable nano- and microparticles for clean energy and environmental applications. Academy of Finland Research Fellow (2017-2022) Specializes in graphene, carbon nanostructures, and metal oxides via aerosol processes Key methods: induction annealing, chemical vapor synthesis, spray pyrolysis Her research spans Li-ion battery materials , water treatment nanocomposites , and toxicological analysis of airborne particles . She has published extensively on carbon-based anode materials , photocatalytic systems , and environmental applications of aerosol technology . Recent work includes CO2 adsorption catalysts and biomass-derived graphene . She has received recognition through the Academy of Finland Fellowship and contributes to circular economy projects like EKOAKKU.

• Aerosol Technology
• Sustainable Materials
• Nanoparticle Synthesis
• +3 more

Jessica Tuuf is a Project Researcher at Åbo Akademi University's Faculty of Science and Engineering, affiliated with the Laboratory of Energy Technology. Her work focuses on advancing sustainable energy solutions, particularly in energy storage systems and alternative fuel technologies. She has actively contributed to projects funded by the EU Just Transition Fund, Nordic educational collaborations, and regional innovation initiatives in Ostrobothnia. Her research interests include electrochemical energy storage, hydrogen-blended fuels for internal combustion engines, and the economic feasibility of second-life battery applications. She has co-authored influential papers analyzing Finland's energy storage landscape and the environmental impact of hydrogen-ammonia mixtures in engines. Tuuf also leads interdisciplinary efforts to establish biofuel storage frameworks for Europe's energy transition. Since 2018, Tuuf has managed 14 projects, including principal investigator roles in bioenergy storage, doctoral network development, and battery recycling initiatives. She has organized high-profile events like the 'Fjärrvärmens framtid' conference and 'TIN goes Etha' workshops to foster industry-academia collaboration. Her work directly aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals 7 (Affordable Clean Energy) and 13 (Climate Action). Key Projects : SECURE-BIO-SUPPLY (2024-2026), TIN Doctoral Network (2020-2026), Battery 2nd-Life Business (2023) Grants : €2M+ secured through EU, Finnish foundations, and Nordic partnerships Collaborations : Active networks with Danfoss, Alholmen Industripark, and local municipalities

• Energy Storage
• Renewable Energy
• Sustainable Development
• +3 more

Erkki Levänen is a Professor specializing in Materials Science and Environmental Engineering. He holds a Doctor of Engineering in Materials Engineering (Rock Engineering, 2004) and a Tech. ul. in Mechanical Engineering (1994). His research focuses on advanced materials processing, including ceramic additive manufacturing, supercritical fluid applications, and corrosion science. He contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to clean energy and sustainable innovation. Key research interests include: 1) Supercritical CO₂ processing for material synthesis (e.g., nanoparticles, ceramics), 2) Development of 3D-printed ceramic structures using vat photopolymerization, 3) Corrosion mechanisms of metallic coatings in extreme environments, and 4) Valorization of industrial waste into sustainable materials. His work bridges fundamental material science with industrial applications. Levänen has authored over 186 publications and actively participates in academic peer review (e.g., Cement and Concrete Composites, Chemical Engineering Journal) and doctoral thesis evaluations. His research networks span international collaborations, evidenced by co-authored studies with institutions globally. Recent projects include the MAGNEX initiative for CO₂ mineralization in circular economies and studies on antibacterial ceramic coatings. Education: Doctor of Engineering, Materials Engineering, Rock Engineering (2004) Tech. ul., Mechanical Engineering (1994) Grants & Projects: Includes funding for ceramic additive manufacturing, CO₂ utilization, and corrosion studies. Labs/Teams: Involved in additive manufacturing and materials processing research groups.

• Materials Science
• Environmental Engineering
• Ceramic Additive Manufacturing
• +3 more

Sami Lieskoski is a Researcher at the Laboratory of Energy Technology, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University , focusing on technologies for a sustainable future. His work integrates energy storage, battery recycling, and renewable energy systems with IoT technologies. Research Interests : Energy storage solutions, second-life batteries, off-grid systems, IoT applications in sustainable energy, and low-carbon society transitions. He contributes to techno-economic analyses and pedagogical initiatives in engineering education. Publications highlight trends in battery recycling, renewable energy integration, and educational demonstrations on energy storage. His projects include EU-funded initiatives like Secure Bio Supply and Developing the battery recycling business in Ostrobothnia . Supervision : Actively involved in mentoring postgraduate and undergraduate students in energy storage research since 2020. Collaborates with principal investigators such as Maria Björklund-Sänkiaho and Jari Tuuf.

• Energy Storage
• Renewable Energy
• Battery Technology
• +3 more

Magnus Hellström is a Professor at the Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, within the Department of Industrial Management. He leads the Laboratory of Industrial Management and is affiliated with the Sea Technologies for a Sustainable Future initiative. His research focuses on sustainable business models, circular economy strategies, and decarbonization in the maritime sector.hellström holds a PhD in Industrial Management from Åbo Akademi University (2006) and a docent title. Previously, he worked at Aalto University, Pöyry, and PBI Research Institute. Research Interests: Hellström’s work centers on adapting industries (e.g., maritime) to sustainability demands through circular economy principles and servitization. Key areas include business model shifts toward smart solutions, emission reduction in shipping, and innovation management. His research integrates disciplines like industrial marketing, technology management, and operations. Projects: He leads or co-leads projects such as L2C (circular management approaches), FOR-BLEND (carbon-neutral fuels), and SOS (Sustainable Ocean Science). These initiatives address decarbonization, clean propulsion, and sustainable ocean technologies. He also collaborates internationally, including at the University of Agder since 2017. Teaching: Offers courses like Advanced Project-based Management and Industrial Value Creation & Sustainability. His educational contributions emphasize experiential learning in maritime autonomous systems and project governance. Grants & Supervision: Supervised doctoral student Iisa Eikaas. His projects are funded by entities like Business Finland and the Åbo Akademi Foundation. Activities include organizing conferences (e.g., Green Maritime Corridors) and serving as an opponent in doctoral examinations. Labs/Teams: Active in the SOS Centre of Excellence, focusing on ocean sustainability. His work bridges academia and industry, addressing challenges in maritime decarbonization and smart port-city integration.

• Sustainable Business Models
• Maritime Industry
• Circular Economy
• +3 more

Jenni Ylä-Mella serves as a Postdoctoral Researcher within the Water, Energy and Environmental Engineering (WE3) research unit at the Faculty of Technology, University of Oulu. Holding a Doctor of Science (Technology), Licentiate of Science (Technology), Master of Science (Engineering), and Vocational Teacher qualification, she brings over 20 years of specialized expertise in circular economy systems and extended producer responsibility frameworks. Her academic credentials include: Doctor of Science (Technology) Licentiate of Science (Technology) Master of Science (Engineering) Vocational Teacher Dr. Ylä-Mella's research centers on circular economy implementation with particular emphasis on critical materials recovery, waste management infrastructure, and electronic waste (WEEE) systems. Her work addresses legislative development for recovery networks and investigates dispersive use patterns to enhance recycling rates of strategic materials. This research intersects industrial ecology, sustainable production technologies, and environmental change mitigation within Northern contexts. She actively contributes to multiple research initiatives including Blue Circular Nets for fishing gear recycling, Heat Battery for industrial side-stream energy storage, and Energy-wise Port for sustainable port operations, demonstrating applied solutions for environmental technology challenges.

• Circular economy
• Resource management
• Recovery of critical materials
• +5 more

Anna Kobets is a Doctoral Researcher at the Department of Chemistry and Materials Science, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University. Her research focuses on electrochemical energy conversion, particularly in the areas of battery technology and materials science. Her primary research interests include: Electrochemistry Battery Technology Materials Science Energy Storage Lithium-ion Batteries Cathode Materials Dr. Kobets' research primarily centers on advancing battery technologies, with a focus on improving the performance and sustainability of lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. Her work involves materials synthesis, characterization, and electrochemical testing of novel battery components, with particular expertise in doping strategies, surface modification techniques, and understanding structure-property relationships in cathode materials. Her recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on cathode materials development, battery recycling, and sustainable energy storage solutions. The research shows significant contributions to improving energy density, thermal stability, and electrochemical properties of battery materials through innovative approaches like atomic layer deposition and gradient doping. Dr. Kobets is actively involved in multiple research projects including BATCircle3.0 (2024-2027), which focuses on establishing a Finland-based circular ecosystem for battery metals, and FinnCERES (2022-2026), the Competence Center for the Materials Bioeconomy. She has also contributed to HiQ-Carb projects (2023-2025) focused on advanced carbon materials for battery applications. Her research aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to affordable and clean energy, industry innovation, and responsible consumption and production, with specific expertise in Lithium Ion Battery (100%), Transition Metal (57%), High Energy Density (42%), Doping (Additives) (38%), Coprecipitation (28%), Cathode Material (28%), Thermal Property (28%), and Electrochemical Property (28%).

• Electrochemistry
• Battery Technology
• Materials Science
• +3 more