Find Academic Supervisors

• Metallurgical Process Engineering
• Metal Recycling
• Extractive Metallurgy
• +7 more

Professor Karl Bernhard Friedrich serves as Universitätsprofessor and Chair of Metallurgical Process Engineering and Metal Recycling at RWTH Aachen University's Faculty of Georesources and Materials Engineering. He leads the Institute for Metallurgical Science and Electrometallurgy (IME), with his office located in Building 1401, Room 108 at Intzestraße 3 in Aachen. His leadership extends to numerous EU-funded research initiatives focused on sustainable metallurgy and circular economy principles. Professor Friedrich's research interests span metallurgical process engineering, metal recycling, extractive metallurgy (pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy), battery recycling technologies, lithium recovery processes, and vacuum metallurgy. His work emphasizes resource efficiency and sustainable practices in metal production and recycling, with particular focus on developing environmentally sound processes for electronic waste and battery recycling. The institute under his leadership has pioneered several innovative recycling concepts for lithium-ion batteries and electronic scrap. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on battery recycling technologies, particularly lithium recovery from spent batteries through both pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical routes. His research group has developed advanced processes for black mass treatment, slag valorization, and metal recovery optimization. The work demonstrates increasing integration of digital technologies and multi-objective modeling in metallurgical process development. Honorary doctorate from Montanuniversität Leoben (2025) recognizing outstanding scientific achievements and commitment to promoting young scientists Long-standing collaboration with Montanuniversität Leoben through the Aachen-Leoben Workshop for non-ferrous metallurgists Professor Friedrich actively supervises numerous doctoral students and has established several collaborative research programs including the DFG priority program 'engineered artificial minerals,' and doctoral programs 'circular electronics' and 'circular e-cars.' His institute maintains strong industry connections, with growing demand for TBRC and VAR trial campaigns. The institute recently commissioned a new large-scale arc furnace and is preparing for leadership transition in early 2027. The IME under Professor Friedrich's leadership operates extensive research facilities focused on vacuum metallurgy, pyrometallurgy, and hydrometallurgy. The institute collaborates with industry partners through the GDMB Zinc & Lead Technical Committee and participates in numerous European research networks. Current research activities focus on developing sustainable processes for battery recycling, electronic waste treatment, and critical metal recovery with emphasis on circular economy principles.

Matthew John M. KraneView profile

Professor

• Materials Process Modeling
• Solidification of Metal Alloys
• Thermal Processing
• +3 more

Dr. Matthew John M. Krane is a Professor in the Department of Materials Engineering at Purdue University and a member of the Purdue Center for Metal Casting Research. His work focuses on the design, development, and modeling of materials processes , particularly solidification and thermal processing of metal alloys, with strong emphasis on defect prevention and uncertainty quantification in numerical models. Current projects include grain-refined particle transport in DC casting , exergy optimization in copper smelting , and boron segregation in continuous casting . Past research includes through-process modeling of Al alloys , microsegregation studies , and laser hardening techniques . Scientific awards include an invited keynote lecture at the 2015 International Symposium on Liquid Metal Processing and Casting and multiple invited papers in high-impact journals.

Isnaldi R. Souza FilhoView profile

Professor

• Sustainable Metallurgy
• Green Steel
• Hydrogen Plasma Reduction
• +4 more

Isnaldi R. Souza Filho is a Junior Professor (Chair of Sustainable Metallurgy) at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) , affiliated with the Institut Jean Lamour (UMR 7198), Université de Lorraine . He also serves as Group Leader for Sustainable Synthesis of Materials at the Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials since 2021. Education: PhD, MSc, and BSc in Materials Engineering from the University of São Paulo (2016-2019, 2013-2015, 2008-2013). Research Interests: Focus on sustainable metallurgy , particularly hydrogen plasma-based reduction of iron ores and microstructural characterization of Mn-containing steels . His work addresses decarbonization in steel production, scrap-compatible alloy design , and waste valorization (e.g., red mud conversion to green steel). Publication Trends: Recent studies emphasize hydrogen plasma smelting reduction of iron ores, kinetic modeling of reduction processes, and microstructure engineering for enhanced mechanical properties. Collaborative work spans CO2-neutral steelmaking , elemental partitioning , and high-entropy alloy synthesis . Scientific Awards: CAPES Thesis 2020 for Best National Doctoral Thesis in Engineerings II (Brazil) Multiple undergraduate awards (CREA-SP, ABM, Engineering Institute) for top academic performance in 2013 Grants and Affiliations: Affiliated with the Dierk Raabe Lab at the Max Planck Institute and leads the Sustainable Synthesis of Materials group. Research funded by institutions supporting climate-neutral metallurgy and recycling strategies .

• Thermal Processing
• Pyrometallurgy
• Waste Management
• +3 more

Harald Raupenstrauch serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Thermal Processing Technology, maintaining an active research profile with over 340 publications and theses. His work bridges fundamental thermal engineering with industrial applications in metallurgy and waste management systems. His research spans thermal processing, pyrometallurgy, waste management, and recycling technologies. Key focus areas include landfill fire prevention, slag treatment for metal recovery, lithium-ion battery recycling, and risk communication in environmental disasters. He develops computational models for metallurgical systems while addressing sustainability challenges in industrial processes. Recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate a clear trajectory toward sustainable resource recovery, with emphasis on phosphide formation in slag treatment, battery recycling via the InduRed reactor, and thermo-mechanical modeling of converters. His work consistently integrates environmental risk mitigation with metallurgical innovation, particularly in Balkan waste management contexts. No scientific awards are documented in the provided materials. Dr. Raupenstrauch has supervised 146 academic works, indicating substantial mentorship activity. His international collaborations—evidenced by activities at institutions like the Technical University of Crete—and high publication output suggest robust grant funding for thermal processing research despite specific grants not being detailed. As Department Chair, he leads research on the InduRed reactor for battery recycling and thermo-mechanical modeling of metallurgical systems. His team maintains active international partnerships, including recent work with Serbian researchers on landfill fire mitigation and ongoing projects at Greek academic institutions.

Maksym ShevchenkoView profile

Researcher

• Metallurgical Engineering
• Thermodynamics
• Materials Science
• +3 more

Dr. Maksym Shevchenko is a Senior Research Fellow at the School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland. He holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering (2019) and M.Sc. in Chemistry (2012) from Kyiv National Taras Shevchenko University. His research focuses on high-temperature phase equilibria and thermodynamic modeling for metallurgical processes. University of Queensland (Senior Research Fellow, 2019–present) Frantsevich Institute (Leading Engineer, 2012–2015) His work investigates element distribution between slag/matte/metal phases, refractory-slag interactions, and thermodynamic optimization of multicomponent systems. Key applications include copper, lead, and zinc processing with sustainability considerations for slag recycling and waste valorization. Recent articles examine phase equilibria in CuO0.5-CaO-AlO1.5 systems, Pb-Zn-Fe-As partitioning, and electrical conductivity of iron silicate slags. His methodologies combine experimental studies with thermodynamic modeling for industrial process improvements.

• Resources Engineering and Extractive Metallurgy
• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science
• +3 more

Associate Professor James Tardio is Deputy Head of Department ACES (Learning and Teaching) at RMIT University's School of Science. His research focuses on resources engineering, extractive metallurgy, and materials science, with a particular emphasis on sustainable resource recovery from e-waste and industrial waste. He has supervised over 20 research projects addressing challenges in hydrometallurgy, catalysis, and environmental remediation. Research interests include phase equilibria in metallurgical slags, phosphate adsorption using mesoporous materials, and catalytic conversion of bio-based chemicals. Recent work includes optimizing lithium battery material recovery from laterite ores and developing novel catalysts for biofuel upgrading. Key Projects: E-waste PCB smelting, Bangladesh mineral sands valorization, spontaneous landfill fire prevention mechanisms. Techniques: Machine learning in bioprocesses, in situ spectroscopy for catalysis, fluvial mineral characterization. His research outputs bridge fundamental materials science with applied industrial solutions, particularly in circular economy applications. Collaborations span multiple disciplines including chemical engineering and environmental technology.

• Smart Grids
• Energy Storage Systems
• Battery Technology
• +5 more

Gregorio Cappuccino is an Associate Professor of Electronics at the Department of Electronics, Computer Science and Systems (DIMES) at the University of Calabria, Italy. He also serves as CEO of CalBatt, a university spin-off focused on high-efficiency energy storage and electric vehicle (EV) charging systems. His academic career spans over 25 years in R&D, with significant contributions to smart grids, battery charging systems, and analog/digital electronic topologies. Ph.D. in Electronics (University of Calabria/Politecnico of Turin, 1994-1998) Laurea in Computer Science Engineering, Magna cum Laude (University of Calabria, 1986-1992) Prof. Cappuccino's research focuses on smart grid energy flow management , EV and stationary battery charging systems , and high-efficiency electronic circuit design . His work bridges theoretical research with industrial applications, particularly in sustainable energy solutions and power electronics innovations. His scientific achievements include the IEEE Real World Engineering Project Award (2011) , Best Presentation Award at Cleantech Summit (2014) , and two University of Calabria awards in 1999. He serves as associate editor for the Journal of Circuits, Systems and Computers and Journal of Low Power Electronics and Applications , and is an IEEE Senior Member. Prof. Cappuccino's laboratory involvement includes the Nanoelectronics and Microsystems Lab (NML) at DIMES, where he contributes to research and educational initiatives. His spin-off company, CalBatt, has gained international recognition, including participation in COP21 and collaborations with Enel, Italy's largest power company.

Viktoria ProstakovaView profile

Research Fellow

• Thermodynamic Modeling
• Metallurgical Processing
• Phase Equilibria
• +3 more

Dr. Viktoria Prostakova is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland , specializing in thermodynamic modeling and metallurgical process optimization. Her research addresses both primary metal production and recycling challenges through experimental and computational approaches. Current Position: Postdoctoral Research Fellow (not part-time) Research Focus: Thermodynamic modeling of complex oxide, sulfide, and silicate systems in pyrometallurgy Collaborations: Denis Shishin, Evgueni Jak, Sergei Decterov Her work spans nickel, copper, lead, and zinc processing , with particular emphasis on slag-metal equilibrium, arsenic behavior, and e-waste recycling. She has contributed to developing thermodynamic databases for industrial applications and published in leading journals like Calphad and JOM . Key publication trends include: Thermodynamic optimization of multicomponent systems (As–S, Cu–As–S, Al2O3–FeO–Fe2O3–SiO2) High-temperature phase equilibria studies Modeling of matte/speiss/metal partitioning in recycling processes She is available for research supervision but no specific students are listed. Her work has been presented at international conferences including Copper2022, European Metallurgical Conference, and Molten Slags, Fluxes and Salts.

• Sustainable Recycling
• Metallurgy
• Material Recovery
• +3 more

Burcak Ebin is a Senior Researcher at the Energy and Material department of Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden. His research focuses on sustainable recycling technologies for critical materials from batteries, solar cells, and industrial waste streams, integrating metallurgy, thermodynamics, and environmental engineering.

• Metallurgy
• Materials Science
• Waste Transformation
• +4 more

Professor Herman Potgieter is a distinguished metallurgist and chemist at Manchester Metropolitan University, specializing in waste transformation, sustainable metal extraction, and advanced materials. He holds visiting professorships at Wuhan Institute of Technology, Aalto University, and Tshwane University of Technology. His research focuses on novel methods for recovering critical metals from low-grade ores and industrial wastes, with emphasis on environmental sustainability and clean energy applications. Education & Professional Background: Trained as a metallurgist and chemist, Potgieter has extensive experience in academic and industrial metallurgy. He has served as an external examiner for over 40 universities globally, including the University of Pretoria, University of Johannesburg, and Manchester University. His professional affiliations include Fellowships with the South African Academy of Engineering, IOM3 (Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining), and the Royal Society of Chemistry. Research Interests: His work spans hydrometallurgical processes, photocatalytic waste treatment, ionic liquid applications in metal recovery, and corrosion science. Key projects include optimizing gold extraction from refractory tailings and developing nanostructured materials for energy storage and environmental remediation. His research emphasizes sustainable resource utilization and pollution mitigation. Awards & Recognition: Honors include the 2019 Fellowship from the South African Academy of Engineering, 2012 IOM3 Fellowship, and lifetime membership in the Materials Corrosion Society of South Africa. He contributes to academic governance as an editorial board member for journals like Corrosion Engineering, Science and Technology and the South African Journal of Science. Advising & Grants: Supervises PhD and MSc students globally, with current projects on water treatment, nanomaterial synthesis, and ionic liquid leaching. His grants focus on advancing metallurgical technologies for resource efficiency and environmental compliance. Collaborates with industries to scale laboratory innovations into industrial processes. Labs & Teams: Leads multidisciplinary teams in Manchester and South Africa, integrating metallurgical engineering, chemistry, and environmental science. Active in lab-scale to pilot-plant research, including the design of CO2 sorption systems and photocatalytic reactors for industrial waste treatment.

Ari JokilaaksoView profile

Associate Professor

• Metallurgy
• Materials Recycling
• Pyrometallurgical Processes
• +5 more

Ari Jokilaakso is an Associate Professor at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering , Aalto University . His work focuses on metallurgical processes, sustainable materials recycling, and pyrometallurgical technologies. He actively participates in academic committees and steering groups, alongside teaching and supervising students in BSc, MSc, and doctoral programs. His research emphasizes critical raw materials, battery recycling, and industrial process optimization. Key research areas include: Metallurgical process modeling (CFD, phase equilibria) Valorization of industrial waste via slag cleaning and smelting Extraction of cobalt, lithium, and rare earth metals from battery scrap Development of sustainable pyrometallurgical methods for carbon neutrality His recent work highlights innovative approaches to recover valuable metals from end-of-life batteries and industrial byproducts, integrating computational modeling with experimental validation. Collaborations with industry stakeholders and EU-funded projects demonstrate his commitment to bridging academic research with industrial applications.

Jean-Philippe HarveyView profile

Associate Professor

• Multiscale thermodynamics
• Materials science
• Computational thermochemistry
• +5 more

Jean-Philippe Harvey is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Polytechnique Montréal . His research focuses on computational thermochemistry, multiscale thermodynamics, and optimization of high-temperature metallurgical processes. Education: PhD and MSc in Metallurgical Engineering from Polytechnique Montréal Affiliation: Thermochemical Computing Research Center (CRCT) Research areas include atomistic simulations of metallic systems, green metallurgy for decarbonization, life cycle analysis of industrial processes, and development of thermodynamic databases for alloy design. His 2025 work emphasizes microwave-assisted reactors for syngas production and green hydrogen integration in pyrometallurgy. Awards: Philanthropic Chair in Materials Engineering (2023) Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) grant (2019) Harvey has supervised 14 graduate students since 2018, including 3 PhD candidates and 11 Master’s students. His publications span journals like Acta Materialia , Calphad , and Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics , covering topics from high-entropy alloys to plasma-based metal recycling.

• Metallurgy
• Recycling
• Rare Earth Elements
• +3 more

Privatdozent Dr. Srecko Stopic serves as an Associate Professor at the Institute of Metallurgical Engineering and Electrometallurgy at RWTH Aachen University, Germany. He works within the Department of Metallurgical Process Technology and Metal Recycling, where his research focuses on developing sustainable metallurgical processes for resource recovery from electronic waste and industrial byproducts. His position as Privatdozent indicates he has completed both doctoral studies and habilitation in metallurgy. Dr. Stopic's research spans multiple critical areas of modern metallurgy including battery recycling (particularly lithium-ion systems), recovery of rare earth elements from end-of-life magnets, and advanced pyrometallurgical/hydrometallurgical processing techniques. His work demonstrates particular expertise in multi-step recycling processes for complex materials like NdFeB magnets, with emphasis on oxidation, separation, and final metal extraction stages. His research directly contributes to circular economy initiatives by developing efficient methods to recover valuable materials from waste streams. Analysis of Dr. Stopic's publication record reveals a strategic progression from fundamental metallurgical processes toward applied industrial-scale recycling solutions. His recent work shows increasing focus on battery recycling technologies and rare earth element recovery, with notable contributions to understanding technological barriers in gold nanoparticle synthesis. A distinctive pattern in his research is the systematic investigation of complete recycling pathways rather than isolated process steps, demonstrating his comprehensive approach to metallurgical challenges.

• Metallurgical Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Materials Science
• +4 more

Tim Eisele is an Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering at Michigan Technological University and Co-Director of the Graduate Programs in Chemical Engineering. He is affiliated with the Great Lakes Research Center (GLRC), focusing on metallurgical and environmental engineering. Eisele earned all his academic degrees (BS, MS, PhD) in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering from Michigan Tech. His research emphasizes particulate processing, metals extraction chemistry, sustainable raw materials production, and bioleaching technologies. Key areas include optimizing separation processes for industrial wastes (e.g., fly ash, slags) and advancing energy-efficient comminution techniques. He also investigates anaerobic bioleaching for manganese and iron recovery, with applications in lunar and Martian resource utilization. Eisele’s recent work includes thermal prospecting for lunar water, manganese bioleaching optimization, and carbon nanotube-enhanced 3D printing inks. His research often bridges environmental sustainability and industrial applications, such as reducing waste through material valorization and improving metallurgical processes. He has co-authored over 70 publications since 1993, covering topics from coal desulfurization to planetary resource extraction. His contributions span academic journals, patents (e.g., U.S. Patent 7,632,330), and technical reports for organizations like the U.S. DOE.

Rodrigo SernaView profile

Assistant Professor

• Mineral Processing
• Battery Recycling
• Circular Economy
• +3 more

Rodrigo Serna is an Assistant Professor at Aalto University specializing in mineral processing and recycling. His research focuses on developing sustainable methods for extracting valuable materials from waste, particularly through flotation processes and battery recycling. He emphasizes minimizing environmental impact by optimizing resource recovery and integrating circular economy principles. His work includes advancing froth flotation techniques to separate minerals and recover metals like cobalt, nickel, and copper from tailings and battery waste. He also explores novel approaches such as electrochemical discharge for safer battery recycling and statistical entropy analysis to evaluate recycling efficiency. Key research areas include: Flotation process optimization for battery materials Circular economy metrics for resource recovery Hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical integration Waste valorization and exergy analysis Automated contact time analysis for bubble-particle interactions Recent studies highlight innovations like using cellulose-based frothers for greener mineral processing and developing multi-dimensional indicators to assess material and energy circularity in battery recycling systems. No scientific awards are explicitly mentioned in the provided texts. His research has been consistently published since 2011, with a strong focus on CO₂ capture technologies transitioning into modern battery recycling challenges.