Tao Sun | Renewable Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Tao Sun | Renewable Energy Systems | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Northwest University | China

Dr. Tao Sun is a distinguished Professor at the School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, China, widely recognized for his pioneering contributions to the fields of energy conversion and environmental catalysis. His research focuses on the rational design and synthesis of nanostructured and single-atom materials for electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, water splitting, fuel cells, metal–air batteries, and CO₂ reduction. By integrating advanced concepts in atomic-level engineering, heterojunction construction, and defect chemistry, he has developed highly efficient and durable materials that address pressing global challenges in clean energy generation and pollutant degradation. Dr. Sun has authored more than ninety peer-reviewed publications, including numerous papers as first or corresponding author in internationally renowned journals such as Nature Nanotechnology, Advanced Materials, Advanced Functional Materials, ACS Nano, ACS Catalysis, and Advanced Science. His research has achieved substantial global recognition, reflected by thousands of citations and a strong h-index, underscoring his scientific influence and leadership in catalysis and materials chemistry. In addition to his prolific research output, Dr. Sun serves as a reviewer for over fifty leading international journals and contributes to the scholarly community as a youth editor for EcoEnergy, Advanced Powder Materials, and Carbon Energy. His work bridges fundamental science and applied technology, offering innovative strategies for sustainable energy conversion, carbon-neutral pathways, and environmental protection. Through his commitment to advancing catalyst design and clean energy technologies, Dr. Tao Sun continues to make impactful contributions that shape the future of green chemistry and sustainable materials engineering. Dr. Tao Sun’s academic excellence is reflected in his global research influence, with 6,780 citations, 94 publications, and an h-index of 38, highlighting his leading role in the field of materials and energy science.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Sun, T., et al. (2025). Photocatalytic H₂ evolution over Ni₃(PO₄)₂/twinned-Cd₀.₅Zn₀.₅S S-scheme homo-heterojunction using degradable plastics as electron donors. Journal of Materials Science and Technology. Citations: 8

2. Sun, T., et al. (2025). Efficient hydrogen production coupled with polylactic acid plastic electro-treatment over a CoFe LDH/MoSe₂/NixSey/NF heterostructure electrocatalyst. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering. Citations: 4

3. Sun, T., et al. (2025). Co₃S₄/MnS p–p heterojunction as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for water splitting and electrochemical oxidation of organic molecules. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science. Citations: 10

4. Sun, T., et al. (2025). Efficient photocatalytic H₂ evolution over SnS₂/twinned Mn₀.₅Cd₀.₅S hetero-homojunction with double S-scheme charge transfer routes. Journal of Materials Science and Technology. Citations: 31

5. Sun, T., et al. (2025). Tuning interfacial charge transfer for efficient photodegradation of tetracycline hydrochloride over Ti₃C₂/Bi₁₂O₁₇Cl₂ Schottky heterojunction and theoretical calculations. Applied Surface Science. Citations: 16

Dr. Tao Sun’s pioneering research in photocatalysis and electrocatalysis advances sustainable hydrogen production and plastic waste valorization, bridging clean energy generation with environmental remediation. His innovative heterostructure designs drive global progress toward carbon-neutral technologies and circular energy systems, fostering transformative impact across science, industry, and society.

Zhenghao Yang | Carbon Neutral Technologies | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Zhenghao Yang | Carbon Neutral Technologies | Young Scientist Award

Doctor | Air Force Engineering University | China

Dr. Zhenghao Yang is a distinguished researcher at the Air Force Engineering University, Xi’an, China, specializing in advanced combustion systems, energy conversion efficiency, and sustainable propulsion technologies. With 16 publications, 113 citations, and an h-index of 6, he has established a growing academic presence in renewable and green energy research. His work focuses on optimizing combustion and energy conversion mechanisms under specialized and extreme operating conditions, particularly for high-altitude applications in aerospace systems. A notable example of his research is the study titled “Optimization research of combustion and energy conversion efficiency of elliptical rotary engine at high altitude using green hydrogen fuel” (Renewable Energy, 2026), which exemplifies his innovative efforts in integrating hydrogen-based propulsion technologies as sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil-fuel engines. His expertise encompasses computational fluid dynamics (CFD), thermodynamic modeling, performance optimization, and hybrid energy system integration, contributing to advancements in energy efficiency and emission reduction. Collaborating with 18 co-authors across various institutions, Dr. Yang demonstrates strong interdisciplinary engagement that connects mechanical engineering, renewable energy, and environmental sustainability. His research holds significant relevance for both aviation and defense sectors, addressing global challenges related to clean energy utilization, decarbonization, and eco-efficient propulsion. Through his continued exploration of hydrogen-fueled engines and high-performance energy systems, Dr. Zhenghao Yang contributes meaningfully to the worldwide transition toward sustainable energy technologies and low-carbon innovation, positioning himself as a promising leader in the field of green propulsion research.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Yang, Z., Jia, G., Fang, Z., Du, Y., He, G., & Wang, Z. (2026). Optimization research of combustion and energy conversion efficiency of elliptical rotary engine at high altitude using green hydrogen fuel. Renewable Energy.

2. Yang, Z., Du, Y., Jia, G., Gao, X., Fang, Z., He, G., & Wang, Z. (2025). Clean combustion of a hydrogen-doped elliptical rotary engine based on turbulent jet ignition: Synergistic enhancement of thermodynamic and emission performance via flow field coupling. Energy Conversion and Management.

3. Yang, Z., Du, Y., Jia, G., Gao, X., He, G., & Wang, Z. (2025). Effect of multi-hole passive jet ignition on thermodynamic and combustion characteristics of hydrogen-doping elliptical rotary engine in high-altitude environment. Energy.

4. Yang, Z., Jia, G., Du, Y., Fang, Z., Gao, X., He, G., & Wang, Z. (2025). Investigation of high-tumble chamber of ammonia-hydrogen fueled elliptical rotary engine based on turbulence and combustion characteristics. Fuel.

5. Du, Y., Yang, Z., Zhang, Z., Wang, Z., He, G., Wang, J., & Zhao, P. (2024). Control strategy optimization exploration of a novel hydrogen-fed high-efficiency X-type rotary engine hybrid power system by coupling with recuperative organic Rankine cycle. Energy.

Dr. Zhenghao Yang’s research advances the development of clean, high-efficiency hydrogen-fueled rotary engines, contributing to global decarbonization, sustainable aviation, and next-generation propulsion technologies. His innovative work bridges energy science and engineering, fostering breakthroughs that support a greener and more energy-efficient future for society and industry alike.