Na Zhang

I am an experienced researcher with a Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Auckland. My expertise includes bioengineering and chemical engineering, with a focus on using biomaterials for wastewater treatment. During my Ph.D., I successfully completed several research projects and mentored undergraduate students in their laboratory experiments and report writing. Additionally, I have gained valuable experience through internships with industrial companies, where I developed strong skills in project management, problem-solving, and communication. With my technical skills and industry experience, I am a reliable team player who is committed to delivering quality results on time and within budget.

• 2020-2022
  Site energy distribution analysis and influence of iron-containing nanoparticles on Cr(VI) adsorption in aqueous solution by biosynthesized magnetic biochar.
• 2020-2021
  Ball milling modified biosynthesized magnetic biochar: Preparation, characterization and application in heavy metal removal from wastewater.
• 2019-2020
  Preparation and characterization of magnetic biochar produced by different methods (Pyrolysis, Co-precipitation and biosynthesis method) and their application in heavy metal removal.
• 2018-2020
  Preparation and characterization of iron-containing nanoparticles and biochar-based magnetic nanocomposites by biosynthesis/green synthesis method and its application in wastewater treatment.
• 2013-2014
  Study of preparation, characterization and Ag(CN)2‾ ions adsorption of strong base anion exchange resin based on Chlorella vulgaris.
• 2012-201 2020-2022
  Preparation and characterization of exchange resins based on polysaccharides functionalized with quaternary ammonium groups, and its application in Eosin Y and metal-cyanide complexes adsorption.
• 2010-2011
  Effects of phytohormone on oil production of Chlorella vulgaris and methods comparison of oil extraction on Cyperus esculentus.

• Zhang, N., Zhou, C. X., Xie, T. H., & Zhang, Y. K. (2014). Study on quaternary ammonium modified tentacle-type cellulose beads and its adsorption for Ag(CN)2-. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 131(21), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1002/app.40987
• Praneeth, S., Zameer, A., Zhang, N., Dubey, B. K., & Sarmah, A. K. (2022). Biochar admixture cement mortar fines for adsorptive removal of heavy metals in single and multimetal solution: Insights into the sorption mechanisms and environmental significance. Science of the Total Environment, 839(April), 155992. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155992
• Zhang, N., Reguyal, F., Praneeth, S., Sarmah, A.K., (2023). A green approach of biochar-supported magnetic nanocomposites from white tea waste: Production, characterization and plausible synthesis mechanisms. Science of the Total Environment, xxx (xxxx) 163923.
• Zhang, N., Reguyal, F., Praneeth, S., Sarmah, A.K., 2023. Pb(II) and Cd(II) adsorption by a novel biosynthesized magnetic biochar from white tea residue: adsorption and regeneration studies. Environmental pollution. (Under major revison).
• Zhang, N., Reguyal, F., Sarmah, A.K., 2023. Site energy distribution analysis and influence of iron nanoparticles on Cr(VI) adsorption in aqueous solution by green synthesised magnetic biochar. (Drafted and ready to submit)