Dr. Thabang Somo | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher at University of Limpopo | South Africa

Thabang Ronny Somo is a highly skilled scientific researcher whose work intersects advanced computational chemistry, data science, and applied experimentation. Through rigorous academic training culminating in doctoral-level expertise, Thabang has developed exceptional proficiency in chemical synthesis, lab instrumentation, safe laboratory protocols, and scientific communication. His academic journey has been enriched by numerous online certifications, enhancing his competency in analytical tools and platforms and empowering a seamless blend of scientific and data-driven methodologies.

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Education Details

His educational background encompasses a comprehensive progression through physical sciences and chemistry disciplines, encompassing both theoretical foundations and hands-on laboratory work. At the graduate level, he immersed himself in rigorous coursework, experimental techniques, and data‐centric research, applying computational approaches to chemical problems. Throughout his studies, he engaged deeply with advanced analytical concepts, established scientific methods, and cultivated a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied research.

Professional Experience

As a dedicated Data and Image Scientist in both industrial and research settings, Thabang has led multifaceted projects that harness machine learning, database architecture, and image analysis. In the mining sector, he crafted predictive algorithms and integrated custom analytical tools into user-friendly interfaces to aid technical decision-making. He also engineered sophisticated image analysis systems that enhanced mineral characterization, while managing complex multi-source datasets to inform operational insights. In the fintech domain, he spearheaded end-to-end modeling for digital platform pricing, constructed forecasting frameworks to guide enterprise fee strategies, and maintained robust ETL pipelines to underpin accurate data integration and commercial pricing operations. His scientific research roles saw him design and manage interdisciplinary projects in hydrogen storage, oversee data structuring and preprocessing, implement predictive modeling, and perform simulations and modeling of green hydrogen processes.

Research Interests

His research is driven by a deep interest in applying computational and data-centric strategies to complex scientific challenges. He is passionate about designing predictive and machine learning models tailored to materials discovery and mineral analysis. Likewise, he is committed to developing visualization and algorithmic tools that translate intricate data into actionable insights across chemistry, energy materials, and industrial analytics.

Awards and Honors

While specific accolades are not listed here, Thabang’s rigorous academic achievements, progressive leadership roles, and continual upskilling through technical certifications reflect a clear recognition of his dedication, excellence, and professional growth by academic and industry peers alike.

Publication Top Notes

Theoretical hydrogen storage properties of high entropy alloys: A combined DFT and machine learning approach. Materials Today Communications.

Thermodynamic and elastic properties of laves phase AB₂-based alloys and their hydrides: A density functional theory (DFT) study. Materials Chemistry and Physics.

Highlighting the importance of characterization techniques employed in adsorption using metal–organic frameworks for water treatment. Polymers.

A comparative review of metal oxide surface coatings on three families of cathode materials for lithium ion batteries. Coatings.

Review on the effect of metal oxides as surface coatings on hydrogen storage properties of porous and non-porous materials. Chemical Papers.

Conclusions

Thabang Ronny Somo represents a synergy of scientific rigor and data science agility. He combines deep domain knowledge in chemistry and materials science with advanced analytical and modeling techniques, empowering impactful innovation across both research and commercial spheres. His blend of technical acumen, leadership ability, and cross-disciplinary fluency positions him strongly for projects at the intersection of science, data, and strategic decision-making.

Assist Prof Dr.Hussein Dalfi | Materials | Best Paper Award

Assist Prof Dr. Hussein Dalfi, University of Wasit, Iraq

Assist. Prof. Dr. Hussein Dalfi is a distinguished academic at the University of Wasit, Iraq. With a focus on [insert field of expertise], Dr. Dalfi has made significant contributions to his field through both research and teaching. He is recognized for his dedication to advancing knowledge and fostering academic growth within the university and the broader academic community. Dr. Dalfi continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of scholars in Iraq.

Summary:

Assist. Prof. Dr. Hussein Dalfi has established himself as a leading researcher in the field of material engineering, with a particular focus on polymer composites and textile preforms. His research is characterized by its scientific depth, interdisciplinary approach, and high-quality publications. Dr. Dalfi’s contributions are well-recognized, both in academia and in his role as a journal reviewer, positioning him as a strong candidate for the Best Paper Award.

Professional Profiles:

Scopus

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🎓 Education :

Dr. Dalfi holds a Ph.D. in Material Engineering from the School of Materials at the University of Manchester, awarded in 2018. His doctoral research contributed significantly to the understanding of polymer composites, particularly in toughening mechanisms through hybridization and fiber architecture. Prior to his Ph.D., Dr. Dalfi completed his B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees in Material Engineering from Babylon University in 1998 and 2002, respectively, laying a strong foundation for his future academic pursuits.

🏢 Experience:

Dr. Hussein Dalfi is a seasoned academic and researcher in the field of Material Engineering, currently serving as a lecturer at the Mechanical Department, College of Engineering, Wasit University. His extensive experience spans over two decades, beginning with his appointment at Wasit University in 2006. Dr. Dalfi’s academic journey commenced with a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Material Engineering from Babylon University in 1998 and 2002, respectively. He later pursued a Ph.D. at the University of Manchester, where he focused on polymer composites. Dr. Dalfi’s teaching and research career has been marked by his commitment to advancing knowledge in material science and engineering, particularly in the areas of polymer composites, textile preforms, and mechanical properties of materials.

🛠️ Skills:

Dr. Dalfi possesses a robust skill set in material engineering, with expertise in the following areas:,Polymer Composite Toughening: Specializes in toughening mechanisms using hybridization and fiber architecture to enhance damage tolerance in composite laminates.,Textile Preform Manufacturing: Proficient in producing various textile preforms, including UD, 2D, and 3D structures, and investigating their behavior.,Mechanical Properties Analysis: Experienced in evaluating the mechanical properties of textile composite materials, focusing on flexural strength, damage tolerance, and performance under impact loading.,Microscopy and SEM Analysis: Skilled in characterizing and detecting damage failures using both destructive and non-destructive methods, including optical microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).,Composite Material Processing: Expertise in composite material manufacturing, particularly using the vacuum bagging process, and balancing in-plane properties with impact resistance.

🏆 Awards:

Dr. Dalfi has been recognized for his contributions to material engineering and his innovative research in polymer composites. Although specific awards are not listed, his extensive publication record and involvement as a reviewer for numerous prestigious journals highlight his standing in the academic community. Dr. Dalfi’s work has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of composite materials and their applications in various engineering fields.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Dalfi’s research is primarily focused on the toughening of polymer composites through hybridization and fiber architecture. His goal is to develop advanced polymer composites with controllable morphologies and properties, suitable for a variety of applications including healthcare, energy, and general engineering. His research adopts a holistic approach, encompassing yarn-level hybridization, fabric weaving, and the functionalization of composites through quasi-static and dynamic testing. Dr. Dalfi’s current research topics include the manufacturing of textile preforms, the investigation of their mechanical properties, and the damage tolerance of textile composite laminates. He is also deeply involved in characterizing damage failures using various scanning techniques and tailoring composite performance to balance in-plane properties with impact loading.

Conclusion:

Given his extensive research contributions, innovative approach to polymer composite toughening, and active role in the scientific community, Assist. Prof. Dr. Hussein Dalfi is well-suited for the Best Paper Award. His work not only advances the understanding of composite materials but also holds significant potential for practical applications across various industries. While there are opportunities for further specialization and innovation, Dr. Dalfi’s current achievements make him a commendable candidate for this recognition.

Publications :

Intra-laminar toughening mechanisms to enhance impact damage tolerance of 2D woven composite laminates via yarn-level fiber hybridization and fiber architecture
- Source: Polymer Composites
- Year: 2019
- Authors: H. Dalfi, K.B. Katnam, P. Potluri

Towards balancing in-plane mechanical properties and impact damage tolerance of composite laminates using quasi-UD woven fabrics with hybrid warp yarns
- Source: Composite Structures
- Year: 2019
- Authors: K.B. Katnam, H. Dalfi, P. Potluri

Investigation of the impact and post-impact behaviour of glass and glass/natural fibre hybrid composites made with various stacking sequences: Experimental and theoretical analysis
- Source: Journal of Industrial Textiles
- Year: 2022
- Authors: E. Selver, H. Dalfi, Z. Yousaf

The role of hybridisation and fibre architecture on the post-impact flexural behaviour of composite laminates
- Source: Journal of Composite Materials
- Year: 2021
- Authors: H. Dalfi, K. Babu-Katnum, P. Potluri, E. Selver

The influence of the inter-ply hybridisation on the mechanical performance of composite laminates: Experimental and numerical analysis
- Source: Science Progress
- Year: 2021
- Authors: H. Dalfi, A.J. Al-Obaidi, H. Razaq

Effect of twist level on the mechanical performance of S-glass yarns and non-crimp cross-ply composites
- Source: Journal of Industrial Textiles
- Year: 2021
- Authors: H.K. Dalfi, M. Tausif, Z. Yousaf

Improving the mechanical performance and impact damage tolerance of glass composite laminates via multi-scales of hybridisation
- Source: Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part L: Journal of Materials: Design and Applications
- Year: 2022
- Authors: H. Dalfi

Effect of intra-yarn hybridisation and fibre architecture on the impact response of composite laminates: Experimental and numerical analysis
- Source: Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part C: Journal of Mechanical Engineering Science
- Year: 2022
- Authors: H. Dalfi

Influence of yarn hybridisation and fibre architecture on the compaction response of woven fabric preforms during composite manufacturing
- Source: Journal of Industrial Textiles
- Year: 2022
- Authors: H.K. Dalfi, Z. Yousaf, E. Selver, P. Potluri

Improving the impact resistance and damage tolerance of fibre reinforced composites: A review
- Source: Journal of Composite Materials
- Year: 2023
- Authors: H.K. Dalfi, K. Jan, Z. Yousaf, M. Peerzada

Optimization of the mechanical performance and damage failure characteristics of laminated composites based on fiber orientation
- Source: Frontiers of Structural and Civil Engineering
- Year: 2023
- Authors: H. Dalfi, A. Al-Obaidi, A. Tariq, H. Razzaq, R. Rafiee

Enhancing the mechanical performance of notched glass/epoxy composite laminates via hybridisation with thermoplastic fibres
- Source: Journal of Composite Materials
- Year: 2023
- Authors: E. Selver, H.K. Dalfi, P. Potluri

Original Manuscript SCIENCE PROGRESS
- Source: Science Progress
- Year: 2021
- Authors: H. Dalfi, A.J. Al-Obaidi, H. Razaq