Mbuyu Germain Ntunka | Technological Networks | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mbuyu Germain Ntunka | Technological Networks | Best Researcher Award

Doctor at Durban University of Technology/Faculty of Engineering & The Bulit Environment, China📖

Dr. Mbuyu Germain Ntunka is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), South Africa. With a career spanning academia, research, and industry, Dr. Ntunka has contributed extensively to chemical engineering, specializing in mineral processing, sustainable materials, and energy recovery. He is also a visiting Associate Professor at the University of Lubumbashi and an Honorary Researcher at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).

Profile

Scopus Profile

Orcid Profile

Google Scholar Profile

Education Background🎓

  • Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (2020)
  • M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa (2005)
  • B.Sc. (Eng) in Chemical Engineering, University of Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo (1996)
  • B.Sc. Eng Honours in Chemical Engineering, University of Lubumbashi, DRC (1998)

Dr. Ntunka also completed various training programs in teaching, hydrometallurgy, and advanced chemical processes, enhancing his expertise in education and engineering.

Professional Experience🌱

Dr. Ntunka has held multiple academic and professional positions, including:

  • Senior Lecturer, DUT (2022–Present)
    Teaching, curriculum development, and program coordination for BEng Tech Honours.
  • Visiting Associate Professor, University of Lubumbashi (2023–Present)
    Providing expertise in advanced chemical engineering topics.
  • Honorary Researcher & Ad-hoc Lecturer, UKZN (2022–2023)
    Teaching Thermodynamics and Mass Transfer while contributing to research initiatives.
  • Lecturer, University of the Witwatersrand (2010)
    Delivered courses on mass transfer and supported student research projects.
  • Tutor and Research Assistant, Wits University (2008–2010)
    Assisted in research and education in chemical engineering.
  • Contract Engineer, Shituru Acid Plant, DRC (1998)
    Industrial experience in acid production and chemical plant operations.
Research Interests🔬

Dr. Ntunka’s research interests include:

  • Sustainable materials development, focusing on waste valorization and circular economy.
  • Energy recovery and mineral processing, exploring innovative extraction and refining techniques.
  • Renewable and clean energy solutions, including biofuels and green chemistry applications.
  • Advanced chemical engineering processes, particularly in thermodynamics, mass transfer, and fluid dynamics.

Author Metrics

Dr. Mbuyu Germain Ntunka has established himself as a notable contributor to the field of chemical engineering, with a Google Scholar H-index of 3 and a Scopus H-index of 4, reflecting the growing impact of his research. His work has garnered over 53 citations, showcasing its relevance and influence within the academic community. With a ResearchGate Score of 8.35, Dr. Ntunka demonstrates active engagement in research dissemination and collaboration. He has contributed extensively to journals such as the Journal of Cleaner Production and the South African Journal of Chemical Engineers, while also serving as a reviewer with 21 verified peer-reviews on Publons. Recognized for his outstanding contributions, Dr. Ntunka received the prestigious JW Nelson Research Productivity Award in 2020. His research spans sustainable material development, energy recovery, and advanced chemical processes, cementing his role as a leader in promoting innovative and impactful solutions in engineering.

Publications Top Notes 📄

1. Review on the Manufacturing and Properties of Nonwoven Superabsorbent Core Fabrics Used in Disposable Diapers

  • Authors: G. Kakonke, T. Tesfaye, B.B. Sithole, M. Ntunka
  • Publisher: Trade Science Inc
  • Year: 2019
  • Citations: 27
  • Summary: This review focuses on the production processes and material properties of nonwoven superabsorbent core fabrics used in disposable diapers. The study emphasizes innovations in manufacturing and their implications for the performance and sustainability of these fabrics.

2. Production and Characterization of Cotton-Chicken Feather Fibres Blended Absorbent Fabrics

  • Authors: G. Kakonke, T. Tesfaye, B. Sithole, M. Ntunka
  • Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
  • Volume: 243
  • Article Number: 118508
  • Year: 2020
  • Citations: 17
  • Summary: This research explores the production and characterization of blended absorbent fabrics made from cotton and chicken feather fibers. The study highlights the potential of using waste materials to create sustainable and efficient absorbent fabrics with high-performance properties.

3. Heterogeneous Acid-Catalyzed Biodiesel Production from Crude Tall Oil: A Low-Grade and Less Expensive Feedstock

  • Authors: N.M. Mkhize, B.B. Sithole, M.G. Ntunka
  • Journal: Journal of Wood Chemistry and Technology
  • Volume: 35
  • Issue: 5
  • Pages: 374–385
  • Year: 2015
  • Citations: 17
  • Summary: This paper investigates the production of biodiesel using crude tall oil, a low-grade and cost-effective feedstock. The research demonstrates the feasibility of using heterogeneous acid catalysis for biodiesel production, offering an innovative solution for sustainable fuel alternatives.

4. A Novel Method for Rapid Extraction of Biofibres from Waste Chicken Feathers

  • Authors: G. Kakonke, T. Tesfaye, B. Sithole, M. Ntunka
  • Journal: The Journal of Solid Waste Technology and Management
  • Volume: 47
  • Issue: 1
  • Pages: 31-45
  • Year: 2021
  • Citations: 2
  • Summary: This study presents a novel and efficient method for extracting biofibers from waste chicken feathers. The paper emphasizes the potential of converting agricultural waste into valuable bio-based materials for industrial applications.

5. Electrochemical Performance of Coated Titanium Anodes in Concentrated Chromium VI Solutions

  • Authors: M.G. Ntunka, A.B. Bryson, I. Cukrowski
  • Journal: ECS Transactions
  • Volume: 6
  • Issue: 13
  • Pages: 1
  • Year: 2007
  • Citations: 2
  • Summary: This work examines the electrochemical performance of coated titanium anodes in concentrated chromium VI solutions. The findings contribute to the understanding of electrode stability and efficiency in industrial electrochemical processes.

Conclusion

Dr. Mbuyu Germain Ntunka is a highly accomplished researcher whose work significantly advances the fields of chemical engineering, sustainability, and renewable energy. His innovative research, coupled with a strong academic and collaborative record, makes him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

By enhancing industry collaborations and broadening the scope of his research to include emerging interdisciplinary technologies, Dr. Ntunka could further amplify his impact, solidifying his role as a global leader in chemical engineering research.