Dr. Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe

Verified @gmail.com

Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering
University of the Witwatersrand

Dr. Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe


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https://researchid.co/smarte20
Dr Anekwe is a distinguished researcher in catalysis, specializing in heterogeneous catalytic systems for renewable energy and environmental sustainability. He holds a PhD from the University of the Witwatersrand, is a DAAD scholar, and works at Wits University, as well as serving as a visiting researcher at the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis in Germany. His pioneering work on advanced catalytic systems for biofuel production contributes to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and accelerate the transition to cleaner energy by integrating fundamental catalyst development with applied energy innovation, emphasizing scalable pathways for sustainable aviation fuels and circular carbon systems. His contributions have been recognized internationally, and in 2025 he received the Overall WITS Early Career Researcher and Author Award from Elsevier, underscoring his impact. Beyond research, Dr. Anekwe provides editorial leadership for several reputable journals.

EDUCATION

Dr. Smarte Anekwe’s academic journey began with a BEng in Petroleum Engineering from the Federal University of Technology, where he gained a strong foundation in energy science and engineering. His undergraduate research focused on enhanced oil recovery techniques to optimize heavy crude oil utilization. Motivated by environmental challenges such as oil spills and acid mine drainage (AMD), he pursued an MEng at Durban University of Technology (DUT), supported by the DUT Postgraduate Grant. His master’s research explored biological methods for eco‑friendly remediation of polluted sites, sparking his interest in sustainable energy.

He advanced to doctoral studies at the University of the Witwatersrand, funded by BRICS, the NRF, and the Postgraduate Merit Award. His PhD centered on synthesizing and evaluating heterogeneous ZSM‑5 zeolite catalysts for biofuel production, with outcomes published in leading journals, conferences, and books.

RESEARCH, TEACHING, or OTHER INTERESTS

Chemical Engineering, Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment, Materials Science, Environmental Science
38

Scopus Publications

1233

Scholar Citations

19

Scholar h-index

28

Scholar i10-index

Scopus Publications

  • Tailoring novel hierarchical HZSM-5 catalysts for high-selectivity ethanol valorisation to transportation fuels: transition metal doping, process optimisation, and coke formation
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Fuel, 2026
    • All catalysts showed >95 % ethanol conversion across operating conditions. • 1 %Ni/HZSM-5 overall performance with 77.8 % jet fuel selectivity, 92.6 % LHC yield. • 1 %Co and %Fe attained 71.1 % gasoline and 31.1% benzene selectivity, respectively. • Ni showed highest coke mass: 1.59 mg (7.84 %) vs Co & Fe: 1.43 mg (∼7.0 %) • Surface area dropped 72–84 % in spent catalysts with 5 wt% metal doping. This study investigates the single-step catalytic valorisation of ethanol to liquid fuels over newly developed hierarchical ZSM–5 modified with Ni, Fe, or Co (0.5–5 wt%). The catalysts were evaluated under varying operating conditions (350–400 °C, 5–12 h −1 ) and subjected to post–reaction coke analysis. Comprehensive characterisation using XRD, XRF, SEM, EDS, FT-IR, N 2 adsorption, PSD, and NH 3 -TPD confirmed the incorporation of transition metals without compromising the MFI framework. The addition of metal altered porosity, surface area, acidity, and morphology, indicating improved tunability of the catalyst microstructure. Catalytic results showed that metal-doped catalysts achieved ethanol conversion >95 % across operating conditions. Product selectivity was strongly influenced by space velocity, with lower values favouring gaseous hydrocarbons and higher values promoting liquid fuel production. Temperature shifts affected product distribution but had minimal impact on gaseous hydrocarbon selectivity. The Ni‑doped catalyst system exhibited superior performance, with 1 wt% Ni achieving the highest jet fuel selectivity (77.8 %) and liquid hydrocarbon yield (92.6 %). For gasoline, Co‑doped showed a clear preference, with 1 wt% Co being most effective, reaching 71.1 % selectivity. Fe‑doped catalysts enhanced aromatic formation, with 1 wt% Fe increasing benzene selectivity from 26.9 % to 31.1 %. Overall, 1 wt% metal‑doped HZSM‑5 catalysts offer a compelling balance of activity, selectivity, and operational stability. Post-reaction thermogravimetric analysis revealed coke accumulation increased with metal loading, with Ni-doped catalysts showing the highest deposition (1.59 mg, 7.84 wt%) compared to Co– and Fe-doped systems (1.43 mg, ∼7.0 wt%), indicating enhanced resistance to carbon deposition. Coke formation also increases with increasing temperature and WHSV. Spent catalyst analysis showed preserved framework but reduced surface area (72–84 %) for high metal loadings (5 wt%). These results highlight the need for precise control of catalyst composition and reaction parameters to minimise coke and optimize fuel selectivity in bioethanol upgrading.
  • Next-Generation Remediation of Polluted Mine Water: Innovations in Microbial Engineering and Integrated Treatment Systems
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Mine Water and the Environment, 2026
    This review presents a restructured perspective on acid mine drainage (AMD) bioremediation by focusing on innovations in microbial biotechnology and integrated bio-treatment systems. The objective is to identify emerging scalable and eco-efficient approaches for mitigating AMD through advanced biostimulation and bioaugmentation techniques. Emphasis is placed on the synergistic role of microbial consortia, typically featuring sulphate-reducing bacteria and carbon source optimisation to enhance metal removal and sulphate reduction. Integrated and hybrid AMD treatment methods show high removal efficiencies for metals, sulphates, nitrate and selenium, including integrated anaerobic bioreactors and constructed wetlands (30–99%), combined bioaugmentation and biostimulation (47–96%), and multi-sequential systems (60–99%). These approaches offer site-specific adaptability, environmental resilience, and cost-effective solutions for sustainable AMD remediation. Additionally, this review analyses critical parameters affecting performance, including pH, temperature, metal toxicity, and hydraulic retention time. Ultimately, it provides an outlook on biotechnological strategies that integrate microbial engineering, waste beneficiation, and process optimisation to redefine the landscape of AMD remediation. Graphical Abstract
  • Advances in nanocatalysts for biofuel production: Mechanisms, performance, and future perspectives
    Sherif Ishola Mustapha, Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Kabiru Bab Muritala, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Materials Today Sustainability, 2025
    The global pursuit of sustainable and low-carbon energy solutions has intensified research into biofuels as viable alternatives to fossil fuels. Yet, conventional catalytic processes often suffer from limitations such as low conversion efficiency, poor selectivity, and limited catalyst recyclability. Recent advances in nanotechnology have introduced nanocatalysts as powerful tools to overcome these barriers, owing to their high surface-to-volume ratio, tunable physicochemical properties, and superior catalytic performance. This review critically examines the application of nanocatalysts in major biofuel production routes, including transesterification, pyrolysis, hydrothermal liquefaction, hydrodeoxygenation, hydrolysis, fermentation, and steam reforming. The roles of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, carbon-based nanomaterials, magnetic nanocomposites, zeolites, and bimetallic or multimetallic systems are comprehensively discussed in terms of catalytic mechanisms, yield enhancement, and reusability. The comparative advantages of nanocatalysts over traditional systems, particularly in reaction kinetics, thermal stability, and adaptability to diverse feedstocks, are emphasized. Furthermore, the review explores emerging strategies such as green synthesis methods, hybrid nanostructures, and integration into circular biorefinery platforms. Key challenges, including nanoparticle agglomeration, scalability, and long-term stability, are also outlined. By consolidating current advancements and identifying future research directions, this article highlights the transformative potential of nanocatalysts in improving biofuel productivity, process economics, and environmental sustainability, ultimately supporting the global transition toward renewable energy systems.
  • Progress in heterogeneous catalysis for renewable energy and petrochemical production from biomass
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Stephen Okiemute Akpasi, Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Atuman Samaila Joel, Sherif Ishola Mustapha, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Fuel Processing Technology, 2025
    Historically, catalytic advances often occurred during events such as wars or embargoes. However, research efforts are focused on better understanding catalytic processes, minimising feedstock and process costs, developing new catalytic materials, and addressing environmental concerns. This study provides an overview of the global energy system, which forms the basis for the need for alternative energy sources as a panacea for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and providing clean and affordable energy sources through heterogeneous catalysis. It also discusses the development of numerous heterogeneous catalytic materials and processes, focusing on the catalytic conversion of biomass and its derivatives, particularly into fuel blendstocks and petrochemicals. In this context, the analysis of the techno-economic and environmental impact of the different biomass conversion technologies was emphasised. Despite the numerous catalysts and technologies developed and documented over the last century, catalytic processes still have some drawbacks. This study further examined the challenges and offered technological opportunities for developing catalytic materials and processes. It also provided a framework for advancing clean and affordable energy in the renewable energy sector using catalytic materials.
  • Unlocking catalytic longevity: a critical review of catalyst deactivation pathways and regeneration technologies
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Energy Advances, 2025
    Catalyst deactivation is a major hurdle in heterogeneous catalysis that requires robust regeneration strategies to restore performance, extend catalyst lifetime and improve sustainability in various industrial processes.
  • The hydrogen challenge: addressing storage, safety, and environmental concerns in hydrogen economy
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Sherif Ishola Mustapha, Stephen Okiemute Akpasi, Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Atuman Samaila Joel, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, 2025
    As part of global decarbonization efforts, hydrogen has emerged as a key energy carrier that can achieve deep emission reductions in various sectors. This review critically assesses the role of hydrogen in the low-carbon energy transition and highlights the interlinked challenges within the Techno-Enviro-Socio-Political (TESP) framework. It examines key aspects of deployment, including production, storage, safety, environmental impacts and socio-political factors, to present an integrated view of the opportunities and barriers to large-scale adoption. Despite growing global interest, over 90 % of the current global hydrogen production originated from fossil-based processes, resulting in around 920 Mt of CO 2 emissions, two-thirds of which were attributable to fossil fuels. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) shows that coal-based electrolysis resulted in the highest GHG emission (144 - 1033 g CO 2 -eq/MJ) and an energy consumption (1.55–10.33 MJ/MJ H 2 ). Without a switch to low-carbon electricity, electrolysis, cannot deliver significant climate benefits. Conversely, methanol steam reforming based on renewable feedstock offered the lowest GHG intensity (23.17 g CO 2 -eq/MJ) and energy demand (0.23 MJ/MJ), while biogas reforming proved to be a practical short-term option with moderate emissions (51.5 g CO 2 -eq/MJ) and favourable energy figures. Catalytic ammonia cracking, which is suitable for long-distance transport, represents a compromise between low energy consumption (2.93 MJ/MJ) and high water intensity (8.34 L/km). The thermophysical properties of hydrogen, including its low molecular weight, high diffusivity and easy flammability, lead to significant safety risks during storage and distribution, which are exacerbated by its sensitivity to ignition and jet pulse effects. The findings show that a viable hydrogen economy requires integrated strategies that combine decarbonised production, scalable storage, harmonised safety protocols and cross-sector stakeholder engagement for better public acceptance. This review sets out a multi-dimensional approach to guide technological innovation, policy adaptation and infrastructure readiness to support a scalable and environmentally sustainable hydrogen economy. • 90 % of current global H 2 production was fossil-based, emitting ∼920 Mt CO 2 . • Coal-fuelled electrolysis had the highest GHG intensity: 144 - 1033 g CO 2 /MJ. • Methanol reforming had the lowest impact if renewable feedstocks are used. • LH 2 and CGH 2 pose major safety risks from flame invisibility and overpressure. • Unlocking clean H 2 requires technological innovation, policy alignment, and public trust.
  • Circular economy and energy transition: a review of South Africa’s 5-year just energy transition investment plan (JET-IP)
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Darlington Ashiegbu, Yusuf Makarfi Isa, Herman Potgieter
    Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies for Global Change, 2025
    Over the past decade, the term " circular economy " has become increasingly important, particularly in the areas of sustainability, resource management, and productivity. This concept is now being actively considered and implemented by national, public, and private organisations worldwide. As concerns about the impacts of climate change increase, so do discussions about mitigating its consequences. An important aspect of this discourse is the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. Recognising the unacceptable phenomenon of climate change, particularly global warming, the South African government has committed to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and promoting green mobility through the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JET-IP). This study aims to provide a critical review of South Africa’s JET-IP, evaluating the feasibility of the proposed decarbonization of the energy sector by identifying key constraints and opportunities for a successful transition. The approach involved a critical review of South Africa’s Just Energy Transition (JET) policy documents, government documents, and related publications, focusing on the 5-year transition plan. The emphasis is on the status and opportunities of the five-year (2023–2027) JET-IP in South Africa, considering the potential of renewable energy sources in the country. The study reveals that South Africa’s 5-year JET-IP faces two interconnected challenges that hinder its feasibility and smooth implementation: the slow deployment of renewable energy sources and obstacles to ensuring reliable and affordable energy. These challenges stem from resistance to decommissioning coal-fired power generation and austerity-driven utility policies. The study offers perspectives and proposes strategic pathways to accelerate the integration of renewable energy technologies into the country’s current energy mix. The findings provide insights into South Africa’s Just Energy Transition, applicable to fossil fuel-dependent countries, particularly in the coal-reliant Global South. Graphical abstract
  • Biomass conversion for sustainable hydrogen generation: A comprehensive review
    Sherif Ishola Mustapha, Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Stephen Okiemute Akpasi, Kabiru Bab Muritala, Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Atuman Samaila Joel, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Fuel Processing Technology, 2025
    Hydrogen is emerging as a promising and environmentally friendly fuel for the twenty-first century, primarily owing to its eco-friendly nature. The production of hydrogen from renewable biomass sources offers numerous advantages compared to traditional fossil fuel-based methods. Various techniques are currently employed to efficiently and cost-effectively convert biomass into hydrogen. This review provides an up-to-date overview of the advancements in various biomass-to‑hydrogen production processes. Additionally, several developmental efforts offer a concise overview of the different technologies utilized in these processes. Furthermore, it conducts a comparative analysis of the existing methods, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. Moreover, it sheds light on the techno-economic aspects of biomass-to‑hydrogen production processes, underlining the practical considerations associated with these technologies. In summary, this work serves as a comprehensive resource, addressing the evolving landscape of hydrogen production from biomass, exploring innovative developments, and providing a thoughtful assessment of the various techniques while considering economic factors. • Overview of the advancements in various biomass-to-hydrogen production processes • Comparative analysis of the existing methods, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses • Techno-economic aspects of biomass-to-hydrogen production processes • Challenges and solutions in biohydrogen production processes • Prospects and future work consideration in biohydrogen production
  • Influence of metal doping on the coke formation of a novel hierarchical HZSM-5 zeolite catalyst in the conversion of 1-propanol to fuel blendstock
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Rsc Advances, 2025
    In this work, the effect of Ni doping on coke formation and the activity of a novel hierarchical HZSM-5 zeolite catalyst in the conversion of 1-propanol to fuel blends was investigated.
  • Hydrogen as a clean energy carrier: advancements, challenges, and its role in a sustainable energy future
    Stephen Okiemute Akpasi, Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Ubani Oluwaseun Amune, Sherif Ishola Mustapha, Sammy Lewis Kiambi
    Clean Energy, 2025
    This comprehensive review examines hydrogen’s potential as a pivotal clean energy carrier, focusing on its role in replacing fossil fuels across various industries. This study also examines recent advancements in hydrogen production technologies, including electrolysis, steam methane reforming, and biomass gasification, emphasizing their economic and environmental impacts. Special attention is given to hydrogen produced from renewable sources like solar and wind energy, emphasizing its benefits in reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a sustainable energy future. The review discusses technological challenges, cost factors, and the necessary infrastructure for hydrogen production and storage, particularly in relation to achieving global energy transition goals. Furthermore, the study stresses the importance of government policies and international collaboration to drive the adoption of hydrogen technologies. The study concludes by outlining the transformative potential of hydrogen in decarbonizing key sectors such as transportation and heavy industry. It demonstrates the significant contribution of hydrogen to a low-carbon global energy system and provides valuable insights into its role in improving grid stability, energy security, and supporting sustainable industrial practices.
  • Innovations in catalytic understanding: A journey through advanced characterization
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Stephen Okiemute Akpasi, Emeka Michael Enemuo, Darlington Ashiegbu, Sherif Ishola Mustapha, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Materials Today Catalysis, 2024
  • Performance evaluation of a newly developed transition metal-doped HZSM-5 zeolite catalyst for single-step conversion of C1-C3 alcohols to fuel-range hydrocarbons
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Bilainu Oboirien, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Energy Advances, 2024
  • Catalytic conversion of bioethanol over cobalt and nickel-doped HZSM-5 zeolite catalysts
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Bilainu Oboirien, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Biofuels Bioproducts and Biorefining, 2024
  • Renewable energy investments in South Africa: Potentials and challenges for a sustainable transition - a review
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Stephen Okiemute Akpasi, Mphathesithe Mzwandile Mkhize, Helper Zhou, Ranganai Tawanda Moyo, Luke Gaza
    Science Progress, 2024
  • Techno-economic and life-cycle analysis of single-step catalytic conversion of bioethanol to fuel blendstocks over Ni-doped HZSM-5 zeolite catalyst
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Electo Eduardo Silva Lora, K.A. Subramanian, Alexander Kozlov, Shu Zhang, Bilainu Oboirien, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Energy Conversion and Management X, 2024
  • Application of biostimulation and bioventing system as bioremediation strategy for the treatment of crude oil contaminated soils
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Soil and Water Research, 2024
  • Current Advances and Potentials of Nanotechnology for Biofuel Production
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Stephen Okiemute Akpasi, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Green Energy and Technology, 2024
  • Emerging Biotechnologies for Sustainable Bioenergy Production: Challenges and Outlook
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Stephen Okiemute Akpasi, Atuman Samaila Joel, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Green Energy and Technology, 2024
  • Ocean Plastic Pollution: Sources, Effects, Challenges and Mitigation Measures
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Mphathesithe Mzwandile Mkhize, Helper Zhou, Stephen Okiemute Akpasi, Thembinkosi T.G. Mkhize
    Journal of Marine Environmental Engineering, 2024
  • Stability, deactivation and regeneration study of a newly developed HZSM-5 and Ni-doped HZSM-5 zeolite catalysts for ethanol-to-hydrocarbon conversion
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Maggie Chetty, Lindiwe Khotseng, Sammy Lewis Kiambi, Lakesh Maharaj, Bilainu Oboirien, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Catalysis Communications, 2024
  • Selective Production of Gasoline Fuel Blendstock from Methanol using a Metal-doped HZSM-5 Zeolite Catalyst
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Bilainu Oboirien, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    E3s Web of Conferences, 2023
  • Sustainable fuels: Lower alcohols perspective
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Nhlanhla Nyembe, Loyiso Clemence Nqakala, Mbaliyezwe Madikizela, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Environmental Progress and Sustainable Energy, 2023
  • Bioethanol as a potential eco-friendlier feedstock for catalytic production of fuels and petrochemicals
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Yusuf Makarfi Isa, Bilainu Oboirien
    Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, 2023
  • Mycoremediation as a Potentially Promising Technology: Current Status and Prospects—A Review
    Stephen Okiemute Akpasi, Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Ubani Oluwaseun Amune, Hassan Oriyomi Shoyiga, Thembisile Patience Mahlangu, Sammy Lewis Kiambi
    Applied Sciences Switzerland, 2023
  • Bioremediation of acid mine drainage – Review
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Alexandria Engineering Journal, 2023
  • Catalytic Conversion of Low Alcohol to Hydrocarbons: Challenges, Prospects, and Future Work Considerations
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    International Journal of Energy Research, 2023
  • Bioremediation of acid mine drainage contaminated soils using bioattenuation, wastewater and air-injection system
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Bioremediation Journal, 2023
  • Artificial Intelligence for the Operation of Renewable Energy Systems
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Edward Kwaku Armah, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Iot and Analytics in Renewable Energy Systems Volume 1 Sustainable Smart Grids and Renewable Energy Systems, 2023
  • Effects of climate change on agricultural production in south Africa
    Smarte Anekwe, Helper Zhou, Mphathe Mkhize, Stephen Akpasi
    International Journal of Climate Change Impacts and Responses, 2023
  • Addressing Climate Change Challenges in South Africa: A Study in KwaZulu Natal Province
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Helper Zhou, Mphathesithe Mzwandile Mkhize, Stephen Okiemute Akpasi
    Sustainable Development Goals Series, 2023
  • Carbon dioxide capture and sequestration technologies – current perspective, challenges and prospects
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Stephen Akpasi, Samaila Joel Atuman, Edward Kwaku Armah, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Green Sustainable Process for Chemical and Environmental Engineering and Science Carbon Dioxide Capture and Utilization, 2023
  • Bioremediation of Crude oil-contaminated Soils – A Review
    Petroleum and Coal, 2022
  • 5.11 The Place of Biofuel in Sustainable Living; Prospects and Challenges
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Lindiwe Khotseng, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Comprehensive Renewable Energy, 2022
  • 5.11 - The Place of Biofuel in Sustainable Living; Prospects and Challenges
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Lindiwe Khotseng, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Comprehensive Renewable Energy Second Edition Volume 1 9, 2022
  • Water Treated Promoted Catalysts for the Conversion of Ethanol to Hydrocarbons
    Yusuf Makarfi Isa, Usman Aliyu Mohammed, Ronald Musamali, Ifeanyi Michael Anekwe
    Advances in Science Technology and Innovation, 2022
  • Comparative evaluation of wastewater and bioventing system for the treatment of acid mine drainage contaminated soils
    Ifeanyi Michael Smarte Anekwe, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Water Energy Nexus, 2021
  • Wastewater and Bioventing Treatment Systems for Acid Mine Drainage–Contaminated Soil
    Ifeanyi Micheal Anekwe, Yusuf Makarfi Isa
    Soil and Sediment Contamination, 2021
  • Evaluation of industrial and municipal wastewaters as bio-stimulants for the treatment of crude oil contaminated soils
    Aiche Annual Meeting Conference Proceedings, 2020

RECENT SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

  • Next-Generation Remediation of Polluted Mine Water: Innovations in Microbial Engineering and Integrated Treatment Systems
    IMS Anekwe, YM Isa
    Mine Water and the Environment, 1-19 , 2026
    2026
  • Tailoring novel hierarchical HZSM-5 catalysts for high-selectivity ethanol valorisation to transportation fuels: transition metal doping, process optimisation, and coke formation
    IMS Anekwe, YM Isa
    Fuel 406, 137244 , 2026
    2026
    Citations: 2
  • Advances in nanocatalysts for biofuel production: Mechanisms, performance, and future perspectives
    SI Mustapha, IMS Anekwe, KB Muritala, YM Isa
    Materials Today Sustainability, 101246 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 8
  • Progress in heterogeneous catalysis for renewable energy and petrochemical production from biomass
    IMS Anekwe, SO Akpasi, EK Tetteh, AS Joel, SI Mustapha, YM Isa
    Fuel Processing Technology 276, 108267 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 25
  • The hydrogen challenge: addressing storage, safety, and environmental concerns in hydrogen economy
    IMS Anekwe, SI Mustapha, SO Akpasi, EK Tetteh, AS Joel, YM Isa
    International Journal of Hydrogen Energy 167, 150952 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 33
  • Circular economy and energy transition: a review of South Africa’s 5-year just energy transition investment plan (JET-IP)
    IMS Anekwe, D Ashiegbu, YM Isa, H Potgieter
    Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies for Global Change 30 (6), 48 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 4
  • Biomass conversion for sustainable hydrogen generation: a comprehensive review
    SI Mustapha, IMS Anekwe, SO Akpasi, KB Muritala, EK Tetteh, AS Joel, ...
    Fuel processing technology 272, 108210 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 44
  • Hydrogen as a clean energy carrier: advancements, challenges, and its role in a sustainable energy future
    SO Akpasi, IM Smarte Anekwe, EK Tetteh, UO Amune, SI Mustapha, ...
    Clean Energy 9 (1), 52-88 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 201
  • Climate change impacts on water supplies and availability in KwaZulu Natal Province, South Africa
    IMS Anekwe, H Zhou, SO Akpasi, MSM Makhathini, MM Mkhize
    UNESCO, GWSI Series Vol. 5. https://doi.org/10.54677/OZIA7839 5, 21-36 , 2025
    2025
  • Unlocking catalytic longevity: a critical review of catalyst deactivation pathways and regeneration technologies
    IMS Anekwe, YM Isa
    Energy Advances 4 (9), 1075-1113 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 77
  • Biofuels through thermochemical conversion: Biomass-to-liquids
    YM Isa, EES Lora, JCE Palacio, NDZ Ortigoza, I Anewke
    From Crops and Wastes to Bioenergy, 313-346 , 2025
    2025
  • Influence of metal doping on the coke formation of a novel hierarchical HZSM-5 zeolite catalyst in the conversion of 1-propanol to fuel blendstock
    IMS Anekwe, YM Isa
    RSC advances 15 (6), 3988-3999 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 10
  • Innovations in catalytic understanding: a journey through advanced characterization
    IMS Anekwe, SO Akpasi, EM Enemuo, D Ashiegbu, SI Mustapha, YM Isa
    Materials Today Catalysis 7, 100061 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 29
  • Ocean Plastic Pollution: Sources, Effects, Challenges and Mitigation Measures.
    I ANEKWE, MM MKHIZE, H ZHOU, SO AKPASI, TTG MKHIZE
    Journal of Marine Environmental Engineering 11 (4) , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 1
  • Sustainable remediation of acid mine drainage (AMD)- and crude oil-contaminated sites through wastewater-enhanced Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15442 …
    IMS Anekwe, YM Isa
    Biotechnology for the Environment 1 (1), 12 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 4
  • Catalytic conversion of bioethanol over cobalt and nickel‐doped HZSM‐5 zeolite catalysts
    IMS Anekwe, B Oboirien, YM Isa
    Biofuels, bioproducts and biorefining 18 (3), 686-700 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 28
  • Renewable energy investments in South Africa: Potentials and challenges for a sustainable transition - a review
    IM Smarte Anekwe, SO Akpasi, MM Mkhize, H Zhou, RT Moyo, L Gaza
    Science Progress 107 (2), 00368504241237347 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 58
  • Application of biostimulation and bioventing system as bioremediation strategy for the treatment of crude oil contaminated soils.
    IMS Anekwe, Y ISA
    Soil & Water Research 19 (2) , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 18
  • Techno-economic and life-cycle analysis of single-step catalytic conversion of bioethanol to fuel blendstocks over Ni-doped HZSM-5 zeolite catalyst
    IMS Anekwe, EES Lora, KA Subramanian, A Kozlov, S Zhang, B Oboirien, ...
    Energy Conversion and Management: X 22, 100529 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 16
  • Effects of transition metal doping on the properties and catalytic performance of ZSM-5 zeolite catalyst on ethanol-to-hydrocarbons conversion
    IMS Anekwe, B Oboirien, YM Isa
    Fuel communications 18, 100101 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 32

MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

  • Hydrogen as a clean energy carrier: advancements, challenges, and its role in a sustainable energy future
    SO Akpasi, IM Smarte Anekwe, EK Tetteh, UO Amune, SI Mustapha, ...
    Clean Energy 9 (1), 52-88 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 201
  • Mycoremediation as a potentially promising technology: current status and prospects—a review
    SO Akpasi, IMS Anekwe, EK Tetteh, UO Amune, HO Shoyiga, ...
    Applied Sciences 13 (8), 4978 , 2023
    2023
    Citations: 171
  • Bioremediation of acid mine drainage–Review
    IMS Anekwe, YM Isa
    Alexandria Engineering Journal 65, 1047-1075 , 2023
    2023
    Citations: 101
  • Unlocking catalytic longevity: a critical review of catalyst deactivation pathways and regeneration technologies
    IMS Anekwe, YM Isa
    Energy Advances 4 (9), 1075-1113 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 77
  • Renewable energy investments in South Africa: Potentials and challenges for a sustainable transition - a review
    IM Smarte Anekwe, SO Akpasi, MM Mkhize, H Zhou, RT Moyo, L Gaza
    Science Progress 107 (2), 00368504241237347 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 58
  • Biomass conversion for sustainable hydrogen generation: a comprehensive review
    SI Mustapha, IMS Anekwe, SO Akpasi, KB Muritala, EK Tetteh, AS Joel, ...
    Fuel processing technology 272, 108210 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 44
  • Stability, deactivation and regeneration study of a newly developed HZSM-5 and Ni-doped HZSM-5 zeolite catalysts for ethanol-to-hydrocarbon conversion
    IMS Anekwe, M Chetty, L Khotseng, SL Kiambi, L Maharaj, B Oboirien, ...
    Catalysis communications 186, 106802 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 42
  • The hydrogen challenge: addressing storage, safety, and environmental concerns in hydrogen economy
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    Water-Energy Nexus 4, 134-140 , 2021
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