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Prof. Fateh Mebarek-Oudina

Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, University of 20 Août 1955-Skikda, Route El-Hadaeik, B.P. 26, Skikda 21000, Algeria.

Professor Dr. Fateh Mebarek-Oudina is an internationally recognized expert in fluid dynamics and energy systems, with an H-index of 64 and over 170 publications in leading scientific journals. He serves on the editorial boards of several indexed journals and has reviewed for more than 300 international publications. Ranked among Stanford University’s Top 2% Scientists (2020–2025) for his scientific impact. Holding a Ph.D. since 2010, he began his career as a process engineer at SONATRACH and now serves as a professor at Skikda University, Algeria. His research focuses on nanofluids, clean energy, combustion, and MHD stability—key areas driving advancements in mechanical, energy, and material engineering.

Keynote lecture title: Advances in Phase Change Materials and Nano-Enhanced Phase. Change Materials for Next-Generation Thermal Energy Storage

Abstract: Phase Change Materials (PCMs) and their engineered nano-enhanced counterparts (NePCMs) are at the forefront of thermal energy storage research, offering transformative potential for renewable energy systems. Through controlled phase transitions, PCMs deliver high energy density and reversible heat transfer, enabling improved energy capture, storage, and dispatchability in solar technologies, thermal management, and energy-efficient climate control systems. This presentation surveys recent progress in the thermo-physical properties, heat transfer mechanisms, and integration strategies of NePCMs, highlighting their superior thermal performance and multifunctional capabilities. Key challenges—such as material stability, compatibility, and cost—are examined alongside emerging solutions and innovative application pathways. The talk emphasizes multidisciplinary approaches and evolving trends that position PCM and NePCM technologies as critical enablers of a sustainable, low-carbon energy future. Researchers, doctoral candidates, and energy professionals are encouraged to explore these developments and their implications for next-generation renewable energy infrastructures.

Keywords: Phase Change Materials (PCMs); Nano-Enhanced Phase Change Materials (NePCMs); Thermal Energy Storage; Heat Transfer Enhancement; Renewable Energy Systems; Energy Dispatchability; Solar Thermal Management; Sustainable Energy Technologies.

Dr. Taqiy Eddine Boukelia

Laboratory of Mechanical Engineering, Jijel University, Algeria.

Dr. Taqiy Eddine Boukelia, an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Jijel, holds Master's (2011) and Doctorate (2016) degrees from the University of Constantine. His expertise includes renewable energy, energy conversion and management, AI applications in energy systems, and hydrogen production. With over 70 authored and co-authored papers in journals and conferences, he also contributes as an editorial board member for prestigious publications like Scientific Reports (Spinger nature) and Energy Engineering (Elsevier), etc. Dr. Boukelia is a regular reviewer for leading journals such as Applied Energy and Energy Conversion and Management, etc., and has received severals awards, including the Outstanding Scientific Production in Renewable Energy Award.

Keynote lecture title: Integration of Waste Heat Recovery Systems into Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) Plants

Abstract: Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) plants, particularly those employing steam Rankine cycles for large-scale electricity generation, are significantly suffering from the large amount of waste heat rejected during the cooling process. Thus, integrating Waste Heat Recovery (WHR) systems presents a promising solution, allowing for the capture of this heat and the enhancement of dispatch capacity through power generation at two different temperature levels: high-temperature from the topping power block and low-temperature from a bottoming WHR unit. Consequently, this presentation aims to comprehensively discuss and assess the techno-economic and environmental performances resulting from the integration of an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC)-based WHR system into four diverse CSP plant layouts. These configurations are further augmented with a Thermal Energy Storage System (TESS) and a Fuel Backup System (FBS). The core motivations for incorporating these combined systems are to significantly elevate dispatch capacity, effectively mitigate economic risks, and notably decrease water consumption crucial for the cooling processes of these installations.

Keywords: Concentrating Solar Power, Dispatch Capacity, Techno-Economic Performance, Waste Heat Recovery, Water Consumption.

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Dr. Mahdi Abdeddaim

Laboratoire de Recherche en Génie Civil, Hydraulique, Développement durable et Environnement, Dept. of Civil Engineering and Hydraulics, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Mohamed Khider Univ., BP 145 RP, Biskra 07000, Algeria.

Dr. Mahdi Abdeddaim is an Associate Professor (Rank A) of Civil Engineering at Biskra University, Algeria, specializing in structural engineering with focus on seismic-induced vibration control using various devices. He earned his PhD from Biskra University in 2017 and has published over 20 research papers in reputed journals while serving as editor for publications by ASCE and Elsevier. Dr. Abdeddaim teaches courses in structural dynamics, waves and vibration, and research methodology. He is currently co-supervising PhD research on AI applications in seismic control and collaborates with universities in Bulgaria, Ireland, and Italy on international research projects.

Keynote lecture title: AI Applications for Structural problems in Mechanical and Civil Engineering

Abstract: This presentation examines how artificial intelligence and big data analytics are redefining the way we address complex real-world problems, with an emphasis on dynamic systems that demand intelligent, adaptive control. In a world increasingly shaped by vast and intricate data flows, transforming raw information into practical, data-driven insights stands as a key objective across many scientific and technical fields. The session opens with an overview of essential big data principles, analytical techniques, and AI frameworks presented in an accessible manner for researchers from diverse disciplines. It then explores the added value of these computational approaches across multiple domains, leading to their implementation in physical systems—most notably in controlling unwanted vibrations, a pervasive issue encountered in sectors ranging from mechanical engineering to civil engineering applications. To anchor these ideas, the presentation features a case study on an AI-based control system engineered to safeguard structures under external loadings. This example highlights how machine learning models can interpret complex environmental data to deliver adaptive, real-time responses—an approach readily applicable to many other contexts. The seminar concludes with reflections on the challenges of integrating AI in practical systems, including technical constraints, ethical implications, and evolving research trajectories. It also emphasizes the potential for interdisciplinary cooperation and aims to inspire participants to explore innovative uses of AI and data analytics within their own fields.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, Dynamic systems, Machine learning, Structural safety, External loadings.

Dr. Abderrahmane Noui

Center for Scientific and Technical Research on Arid Regions, CRSTRA, BP 1640, Biskra, Algeria

Dr. Abderrahmane Noui holds a Ph.D. in Hydraulic Sciences from the University of Biskra and serves as a researcher at the Scientific and Technical Research Center on Arid Regions (CRSTRA). He is also the founder and director of a consulting office specialized in geophysics applied to groundwater exploration and management. Winner of the Second Prize of the “AI for Environmental E-government Award” at the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS, Geneva 2025), he develops innovative solutions that integrate artificial intelligence for sustainable water resources management. His career is marked by several national and international distinctions in the field of sustainable development, including in Austria, Turkey, Iran, Egypt, and Russia.

https://sdgs.un.org/partnerships/contribution-artificial-intelligence-geophysics-gis-and-ict-fight-against-groundwater

Keynote lecture title: Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Groundwater Management: From Local Innovation to International Recognition

Abstract: This keynote will present the journey behind the development of an innovative digital platform for monitoring and managing several dozen groundwater aquifers in the arid regions of Algeria, recognized with the Second Prize at WSIS 2025 in Geneva. The project demonstrates how integrating artificial intelligence and predictive analytics can optimize the management of over 10 million m³ of groundwater annually. The talk will also share my personal experience in receiving national and international distinctions, highlighting the strategies that enabled the mobilization of a team of 15 researchers and students. The objective is to promote transdisciplinary and innovative approaches for sustainable water resource management, inspire young researchers to actively participate in scientific competitions, and show that the fields covered by the 2nd Conference on Mechanical, Energy, and Material Engineering also offer real opportunities to win international awards through the engagement and creativity of students and researchers.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence; Groundwater resources; Sustainable management; Scientific innovation; International competitions; Engineering