The Department of Mechanical Engineering at PolyU is proud to share that Prof. Zhenghe Xu, Chair Professor of Interfacial Sciences and Engineering of Materials, was honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the International Mineral Processing Congress (IMPC) Gala Dinner in Cape Town on 21 October 2026.
This prestigious award celebrates Prof. Xu’s exceptional international career at the forefront of engineering, materials science, and sustainable resource processing, recognizing a lifetime of scientific excellence, innovation, and leadership.
A Legacy of Groundbreaking Research and Innovation
Prof. Xu is a globally renowned authority in interfacial science, mineral processing, and clean energy technologies. Over his distinguished career, his research has spanned mineral flotation, oil-sands extraction, colloids and surface forces, petroleum emulsions, tailings management, wastewater treatment, and the recycling of spent batteries and electronic materials.
Prior to joining PolyU, Prof. Xu held prominent academic and leadership positions internationally:
- University of Alberta (Canada): Joined in 1997, where he served as Canada Research Chair in Mineral Processing, NSERC-Industry Research Chair in Oil Sands Engineering, and NSERC-Industry Research Chair in Coal Cleaning and Combustion Technology. He remains associated with the university as an Emeritus Professor.
- Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech, China): Served as Chair Professor and Founding Dean of the College of Engineering starting in August 2016.
Scientific Impact and Global Recognition
Prof. Xu has authored over 550 peer-reviewed journal papers, held numerous patents, and contributed to multiple books and book chapters. His research seamlessly bridges fundamental science with industrial application, resulting in widespread global impact.
His outstanding contributions have earned him top honours worldwide:
- Fellowships: Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering (2008), Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (2015), and International Member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering (2021).
- Major Awards: Antoine M. Gaudin Award (2024), MetSoc Airey Award, ASTech Leadership Foundation Award, MetSoc Award for Research Excellence, Syncrude Award for Excellence in Sustainable Development, and the APEGA Frank Spragins Technical Award.
Pioneering New Frontiers at PolyU
Having joined PolyU's Department of Mechanical Engineering as Chair Professor in September 2026, Prof. Xu is extending his core expertise in interfacial sciences and resource processing toward energy storage materials for renewable energies.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Prof. Xu on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to his continued contributions to sustainable engineering and innovation at PolyU!
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