Rajni Aggarwal -Synthesis of ionic liquids – Women Researcher Award

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Rajni Aggarwal -Synthesis of ionic liquids – Women Researcher Award

Dr. Rajni Aggarwal distinguished academic and researcher in the field Synthesis of ionic liquids. She has accumulated significant teaching experience in the field of chemistry. This includes six months of teaching Organic Chemistry practicals for B.Sc. (HNs) Human Genetics semester I class from July 2011 to November 2012, and another six months teaching the same subject for B.Sc. (HNs) Electronics Technology semester I class from July 2012 to December 2012. Following this, she served for three years as a teacher of Chemistry at BBK DAV College for Women, Amritsar, from 2015 to 2017. Furthermore, she contributed her expertise in the Department of Chemistry from 2022 to 2023, teaching Physical Chemistry to both undergraduate and postgraduate classes over a three-year period

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

She holds a B.Sc. in Chemistry (HNs) from Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, obtained in 2007, followed by an M.Sc. in Chemistry (HNs) from the same institution in 2009. During her M.Sc., she conducted a project in inorganic chemistry under the guidance of Dr. T. S. Lobana in the Chemistry Department at GNDU, Amritsar. Subsequently, she pursued her Ph.D. from the Department of Chemistry at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, under the supervision of Professor Dr. Sukhprit Singh. Her doctoral research focused on the synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of ionic liquids, as well as physical studies related to ionic liquids. Additionally, she has qualified for the Ph.D. Eligibility Test conducted by Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, in August 2010, and the Graduate Aptitude Test conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Bombay, in March 2013.

🏆🏆Awards🏆🏆

 Recipient of UGC SAP Fellowship in science for meritorious student, India (2009 – 2014).

LABORATORY AND INSTRUMENTATION SKILLS

She possesses extensive knowledge and practical skills in various aspects of chemistry, particularly in the realm of organic and inorganic compounds. Her expertise includes conducting multistep organic reactions and monitoring them using techniques such as TLC, UV, fluorescence, NMR, mass spectrometry, and infrared spectroscopy. Additionally, she is proficient in purifying compounds through methods like liquid column chromatography and crystallization.

Furthermore, she is well-versed in the characterization of both organic and inorganic compounds using a wide range of analytical techniques, including NMR, IR, MS, UV-Visible spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) experiments.

Moreover, she is adept in instrumentation techniques associated with NMR, IR, UV, fluorescence, as well as utilizing software such as Zetasizer for dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis and XRD analysis. Her proficiency in these areas enables her to contribute effectively to research and teaching endeavors within the field of chemistry.

CONFERENCES ATTENDED

She has actively participated in numerous national symposiums and seminars, showcasing her dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of chemistry. Notable among these are her poster presentations at the National Symposium on Chemistry in 21st Century held at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, in December 2011, and the Chemical Constellation Cheminar-2012 at Dr B R Ambedkar National Institute of Technology, Jalandhar, in September 2012.

Additionally, she has presented her research findings at various prestigious events, including the 7th RSC-CRSI Symposium in Chemistry at Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, in January 2013, and the 15th CRSI National Symposium in Chemistry at the same venue in February 2013. Furthermore, she participated in the National Symposium on Recent Trends in Chemistry held at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, in March 2013.

Her commitment to scholarly discourse is evident through her attendance and contributions at the IVth, Vth, and VIth National Symposia on Advances in Chemical Sciences, all held at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, in 2014, 2016, and 2017 respectively. These engagements underscore her active involvement in academic and research activities within the chemistry community.

 

📝🔬Publications📝🔬
  • R. Aggarwal, S. Singh, Synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of surface properties of
    cyclohexyloxyoxoethylbipyridinium gemini amphiphiles, and a Comparison with single-tailed
    amphiphiles
  • R. Aggarwal, S. Singh, G. Hundal, Synthesis, characterization and evaluation of surface properties of
    cyclohexanoxycarbonylmethyl pyridinium and cyclohexanoxycarbonyl methyl imidazolium ionic
    liquids.
  • R. Aggarwal, P. Khullar, M. S. Bakshi, D. Mandial, A. Mahal, G. Ahluwalia. Bipyridinium and
    Imidazolium Ionic Liquids for Nanomaterials Synthesis; pH Effect, Phase Transfer Behavior, and
    Protein Extraction. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering 2017, 5(9), 7859-7870. (DOI:
    10.1021/acssuschemeng.7b01368)
  • R. Aggarwal. Comparison of physicochemical studies of single tailed and gemini cyclohexanoxy
    carbonyl pyridinium cationic amphiphiles. Journal of proteomics and bioinformatics. Volume 10 (7)
    178-185 (2017).
  • R. Aggarwal, S. Singh. Synthesis, characterization and evaluation of surface and thermal properties of
    3-cyclohexyloxy-2-hydroxypropyl pyridinium and imidazolium surface active ionic liquids. Journal of
    surfactant and Detergents, 2018, vol. 21, issue 1, (doi.org/10.1002/jsde.12002).
  • R. Aggarwal, S. Singh. Synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of surface and thermal properties
    and cytotoxicity of 2-hydroxy-3-phenoxypropyl imidazolium bola-type gemini amphiphiles, Journal of
    surfactant and Detergents, 2018, volume 22 (1), (doi/10.1002/jsde.12203)
  • R. Aggarwal, T. S. Lobana, B. Thakur, R. J. Butcher, M. Zeller, J. P. Jasinki. Synthesis and structure of
    dinuclear palladium complexes with 1, 3-imidazoline-2-thione, Acta Cryst. (2023), E79.
  • R. Aggarwal, S. Singh.Synthesis, self-aggregation, thermal stability and cytotoxicity trends of
    alkyloxypropoxycyclohexane based pyridinium ionic liquids.
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molliq.2024.124382.

Emmanuel Israel Edache -Chemistry- Best Researcher Award

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 Mr. Emmanuel Israel Edache  distinguished academic and researcher in the Physical and Theoretical Chemistry. He is an ambitious and visionary young man with an innate goal-getting attitude, analytic, and problem-solving skills, who is keen to begin a career in a challenging environment. He is a recent graduate who combined studies with other commitments. In achieving this, he has shown himself to be self-motivated, committed, and determined in achieving his goals. He has also demonstrated negotiating and organizing skills, a firm sense of responsibility, and the capacity to be efficient under pressure. He possesses excellent verbal and written communication skills and is able to relate to a wide range of people.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Physical and Theoretical Chemistry at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, which he anticipates completing soon. Prior to this, he attained an M.Sc. in Physical Chemistry with Second Class Upper Division honors from the same institution. His academic journey began at Bayero University Kano, Kano State, where he graduated with a B.Sc. (Hons) in Chemistry, also earning Second Class Upper Division honors. Earlier in his educational path, he completed a program in N.D Surveying and Geo-informatics at Yaba College of Technology, where he achieved a Lower Credit. His secondary education took place at Qua iboe Church Secondary School, Ogugu, Kogi State, culminating in the Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE). He initiated his academic endeavors at Army Children’s School (NAFRC) Oshodi, Lagos State, where he obtained the First School Leaving Certificate.

He has a track record of assuming leadership roles among his peers, having been privileged to do so on several occasions. Additionally, he actively participated in numerous motivation and facilitation programs focused on youth and skill development. His experience with teamwork spans various areas of responsibility and includes volunteerism. Moreover, he served as a member of the student union government at Yaba College of Technology, further demonstrating his commitment to community engagement and leadership.

WORK EXPERIENCE

He has amassed a diverse range of teaching and educational experiences throughout his career. From February 2013 to February 2017, he served as a part-time Lecturer and Laboratory Demonstrator at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. In this role, he was responsible for ensuring the proper teaching and impartation of knowledge to students across various chemistry courses. Additionally, he played a key role in compiling course materials, coordinating students during examinations, and ensuring compliance with laboratory regulations.

He has also contributed to examination processes as an Assistant Examiner in Chemistry for both the Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) at ABU, Zaria, since 2015, and the West African Examination Council (WAEC) since 2017.

Prior to these roles, he served as a Teacher at Highgate College in Lagos, where he provided instruction and guidance to students while overseeing examination procedures and compliance with college policies. During his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year, he served as a Teacher at Government Technical College in Taraba State, where he fulfilled responsibilities including class management, course material compilation, and ensuring examination compliance.

Furthermore, he gained valuable industry experience during his Industrial Training at the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). In this role, he conducted quality control assessments, investigated drug and cosmetic properties, and performed spectrophotometric and chromatographic determinations.

LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY SERVICE POSITIONS

He has actively contributed to various clubs and organizations, showcasing his commitment to community engagement and leadership. From October 2013 to February 2015, he served as the Chief Usher for the Postgraduate Fellowship of Christian Students, demonstrating his ability to lead and organize within a religious community. During his NYSC year from July 2011 to June 2012, he held multiple leadership roles, including Club Provost for both the HIV/AIDS Awareness Club and the NDLEA/NYSC Drug-Free Club, as well as Cadet Registrar for the NYSC Road Safety Club, emphasizing his dedication to public health and safety initiatives. Additionally, during his time at Bayero University Kano, he served as the Zoe Secretary for the Fellowship of Christian Students, BUK Chapter, from February 2009 to April 2010, further highlighting his involvement in religious and student organizations.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Ettahiri Youssef -Chemistry- Young Scientist Award

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Ettahiri Youssef -Chemistry

Dr. Ettahiri Youssef  distinguished academic and researcher in the field of Chemistry. The research at the Agadir Faculty of Science, Ibn Zohr University, focuses on the development of porous and photocatalytic geopolymer materials derived from natural clays, with a primary application in wastewater depollution. This investigation falls within the realm of fundamental and applied chemistry, with a specialized emphasis on the physical chemistry of materials. The research areas encompass geopolymers, photocatalysis, adsorption, construction materials, clay, fly ash, wastewater treatment, porous geopolymers, 3D printing of geopolymers, concrete materials, and CO2 capture.

The Materials and Environment Laboratory (LME) at the institution serves as the hub for these endeavors. Under the guidance of esteemed supervisors, Professor Bouna Lahcen and Professor Benlhachemi Abdeljalil, both affiliated with Ibn Zohr University, the research team delves into the intricate aspects of developing innovative materials that possess both porous characteristics and photocatalytic properties. This interdisciplinary approach involves blending principles from chemistry, materials science, and environmental science.

The ultimate goal of the research is to contribute to the field of wastewater depollution by creating advanced geopolymer materials that can effectively adsorb and photocatalytically degrade pollutants. The utilization of natural clays as a base material adds an environmentally friendly dimension to the project. The research team explores various avenues, including 3D printing technologies, to tailor the properties of these geopolymers for specific applications in the construction industry and environmental remediation.

By combining the expertise of the faculty and the resources of the Materials and Environment Laboratory, this research project at the Agadir Faculty of Science aims to advance the understanding of geopolymer materials, pushing the boundaries of their applications in sustainable development and addressing critical challenges in wastewater treatment.

Education

In 2023, he earned his Doctorate from the Agadir Faculty of Sciences at Ibn Zohr University, marking a significant accomplishment in his academic journey. Prior to this, he successfully completed his Master’s degree at the same institution from 2018 to 2020, further specializing in his chosen field of study.

His academic pursuits began with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the Faculty of Sciences in Agadir, Ibn Zohr University, where he pursued the Chemistry-Physics option from 2015 to 2018. This foundational period laid the groundwork for his later academic endeavors, providing a comprehensive understanding of the core principles in the field.

Before entering university, he completed a Bachelor of Experimental Sciences with a focus on Physical Sciences at the New High School during the academic year 2014-2015. This early exposure to experimental sciences likely played a crucial role in shaping his academic interests and setting the stage for his subsequent studies at the university level.

The progression from a Bachelor’s degree in experimental sciences to a Doctorate in 2023 reflects his dedication to academic and professional growth, showcasing a commendable journey through various educational levels at Ibn Zohr University in Agadir.

Professional Profiles:
International internship
Internship at the Department of Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering.
University of Jaén, Spain/2023.
Publications first author
1. Youssef Ettahiri, L. Bouna, H. John V, A. Benlhachemi, P. Hannah L, A. Bouddouch and B. Bakiz, “Pyrophyllite clay-derived porous geopolymers for removal of methylene blue from aqueous solutions”, Materials Chemistry and Physics (IF = 4.6) 296 (2023) 127281, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matchemphys.2022.127281.
2. Youssef Ettahiri, Brahim Bouargane, Kamal Fritah, Brahim Akhsassi, L. PĂ©rez-Villarejo, Ayoub Aziz, Lahcen Bouna, Abdeljalil Benlhachemi, Rui M. Novais, “A state-of-the-art review of recent advances in porous geopolymer: applications in adsorption of inorganic and organic contaminants in water”, Construction and Building Materials (IF = 7.4) 395 (2023) 132269, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2023.132269.
3. Youssef Ettahiri, Brahim Akhsassi, Mina El Fazdoune, Abdessalam Bouddouch, Lahcen Bouna, Abdeljalil Benlhachemi, Luis PĂ©rez-Villarejo, Regina de FĂĄtima Peralta Muniz Moreira, “From synthesis to applications: A comprehensive review of photocatalytic geopolymer materials for environmental remediation”, Separation and Purification Technology (IF = 8.6) 330 (2023) 125396, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2023.125396.
4. Youssef Ettahiri, Devon M. Samuel, Lahcen Bouna, Anass Khali, Ayoub Aziz, Abdeljalil Benlhachemi, L. PĂ©rez-Villarejo and Waltraud M. Kriven, “Comparative study of physicochemical properties of geopolymers prepared by four Moroccan natural clays”, Journal of Building Engineering (IF = 7.1) 80 (2023) 108021, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobe.2023.108021.
5. Youssef Ettahiri, Lahcen Bouna, Akhsassi Brahim, Abdeljalil Benlhachemi, Bahcine Bakiz, Pedro J. SĂĄnchez-Soto, Dolores, Eliche-Quesada, Luis. PĂ©rez-Villarejo, “Synthesis and characterization of porous and photocatalytic geopolymers based natural clay: Enhanced properties and efficient Rhodamine B decomposition”, Applied Materials Today (IF = 8.3) (Accepted).

Publications co-author

1. L. Bouna, Y. Ettahiri, A. Benlhachemi, B. Bakiz, and M. Ezahri “First International
Geopolymeric Composites Congress GEC-2021”, Proceeding du congrĂšs, DĂ©cember, 2021,
https://www.gec.acapublishing.com.
2. B. Akhsassi, Y. Ettahiri. Bakiz. A. Taoufyq. S. Villain. Favotto, F. Guinneton, J.-R. Gavarri,
A. Benlhachemi. “Novel Z-scheme Bi3O4Cl/Bi24O31Cl10 2D/3D heterojunction for enhanced
photocatalytic activity under visible light”, Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical
and Engineering Aspects (IF = 5.2), 20 September 2023, 131762.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colsurfa.2023.131762.
3. Lahcen Bouna, Youssef Ettahiri, Antoine Elimbi, Abdeljalil Benlhachemi, Martin Cyr, “Role
of washing process in the improvement of surface properties of porous geopolymers”, Journal
of Porous Materials (IF = 2.6), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2023.125396.
4. Lahcen Bouna, Abdellah Ait EL. Fakir, Youssef Ettahiri, Hajar Abara, Amane Jada, Khalid
Draoui, Abdeljalil Benlhachemi, Mohamed Ezahri, “Understanding the impact of
kaolinite/muscovite ratio in natural clays on oxide contents, physisorbed water, and
structural water fractions”, Materials Chemistry and Physics (IF = 4.6),
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matchemphys.2023.128858.

Publications submitted/in preparation

1. Youssef Ettahiri et al “Improving the behavior of green concrete geopolymer using different aluminosilicate sources”, (In preparation).

2. Youssef Ettahiri et al “Reaction kinetics, thermal properties, mechanical properties and microstructure of concrete geopolymers”, (In preparation).
3. Youssef Ettahiri et al “A new porous geopolymer monolith for CO2 capture and thermal insulation”, (In preparation).
4. Youssef Ettahiri et al “First study of a macroporous geopolymer monolith with high thermal insulation properties”, (In preparation).
5. Youssef Ettahiri et al “Improvement of mechanical strength of raw kaolinite using geopolymer-based materials synthesized from slag ash and bottom ash”, (In preparation).        6. Youssef Ettahiri et al “Preparation and properties of diatomite rock based geopolymer for removal of dye from aqueous solutions”, (In preparation).

Research and development

In 2020, he took the initiative to organize a training course focused on the theme of “Completing the end-of-study project (PFE)” specifically tailored for undergraduate students. This course aimed to provide valuable guidance and support to students navigating the challenges of their final projects, offering insights and strategies to enhance the quality of their end-of-study projects.

As a proactive member of the Club of Young Researchers in Applied Sciences and Environment from 2020 to 2022, he actively contributed to the academic and research community. Being part of this club allowed him to engage with like-minded individuals, fostering a collaborative environment for the exchange of ideas and the pursuit of knowledge in applied sciences and environmental research.

In 2021, he further demonstrated his commitment to academic and environmental causes by taking on the role of organizer for a Scientific Day at the Agadir Faculty of Sciences, University Ibn Zohr, Morocco. The event, themed “Water and Waste preservation and valorization for sustainable development,” served as a platform for disseminating knowledge and promoting awareness regarding critical issues in water and waste management for sustainable development.

In the subsequent year, 2022, he assumed the role of coordinator for another significant Scientific Day. This time, the theme centered around “Alternative crops and water security.” The event, organized jointly by the Club of Young Researchers in Applied Sciences and Environment and the Agricultural Association for Watering and Irrigation in TATA, Morocco, aimed to address the importance of alternative crops in the context of water security. Through these initiatives, he showcased strong organizational and leadership skills, contributing to the academic and environmental discourse within and beyond the university community.

Areas of competence

Adsorption, Photocatalysis, Geopolymers concrete, Porous geopolymers, 3D printing
geopolymers, Clay, Wastewater, CO2 capture

Synthesis methods: Solid-Solid, Coprecipitation, Hydrothermal, Sol-gel…
Characterization techniques (TGA/TDA, XRD, FTIR, SEM, UV, BET, XPS, MET, RAMAN,
FX, Compression, and Reflection testing…).
Advanced programs (X’pertHightscore, OriginLab, Fullprof , SIG).

Formations

Training on biosafety awareness at the Agadir Faculty of Sciences of Ibn Zohr University
(2017).
Geographic Information System (GIS) training, organized by the Young Researchers’ Club for
Applied Sciences and the Environment (CJCSAE) of the Agadir Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr
University (2020).
Participant in a workshop entitled “From Scientific Research to Practice” organized by the
Agadir School of Technology, Ibn Zohr University (2021).