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Women’s Special Issue Series: Processes
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Women’s Special Issue Series: Processes

A Special Issue of Processes (ISSN 2227-9717).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 November 2026 | Viewed by 7178

Editors

Prof. Dr. Alina Pyka

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Guest Editor
Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Jagiellońska 4, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland
Interests: chromatography; liquid chromatography; gas chromatography; thin layer chromatography; spectrophotometry; densitometry; organic compounds analysis; QSAR; QSRR; QSPR; pharmaceutical analysis; purity of pharmaceutical preparations
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Wei Sun

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Chemical Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
Interests: process modeling and analysis; process monitoring and fault diagnosis; industrial data mining; process system engineering
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Mónica Elvira Mendoza-Duarte

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Engineering and Chemistry of Materials, Centro de Investigación en Materiales Avanzados, CIMAV, Chihuahua 31136, Mexico
Interests: rheology; dynamic mechanical analysis; mechanical properties of polymers; biodegradable polymers; hydrolitic degradation; contact angle; polymers injection molding
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Agnieszka Zgoła-Grześkowiak

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Faculty of Chemical Technology, Poznan University of Technology, Berdychowo 4, PL-60 965 Poznan, Poland
Interests: sample preparation; microextraction; endocrine disrupting compounds; environmental chemistry; food analysis; biodegradation; LC-MS/MS
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are delighted to present this special collection of articles highlighting the achievements of women scientists in process- and system-related research in chemistry, biology, material, energy, environment, food, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, and allied engineering fields from all around the world. This Special Issue is devoted to presenting research performed by female scientists. We encourage articles in which the lead and/or corresponding authors are women. However, we recognize that gender identity is personal and that our understanding of equity and equality is constantly evolving; therefore, we welcome submissions from all authors, irrespective of gender.

We cordially invite you to submit your work performed across all areas of process/system research and present your latest discoveries in classical and advanced processes fields such chemistry, biology, material, energy, environment, food, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, and allied engineering. This Issue aims to spotlight the contributions of female researchers to the development of process- and system-related research. These are only some of the topics of interest, and we welcome additional contributions to help shape a high-impact Special Issue.

Topics include, but are not limited to

  • Chemical processes and systems;
  • Biological processes and systems;
  • Materials processes;
  • Catalysis-enhanced processes;
  • Environmental and green processes;
  • Energy systems;
  • Process control and monitoring;
  • Automation control systems;
  • Food processes;
  • Pharmaceutical processes;
  • Manufacturing processes and systems;
  • Sustainable processes;
  • Separation Processes
  • Particle Processes
  • AI-enabled process engineering.

Communications, original research papers, and review articles are welcome, as well as biographies and articles celebrating outstanding female researchers.

Submissions led or solely authored by women are especially encouraged. We warmly welcome contributions from all researchers, irrespective of gender. We welcome submissions from all authors, irrespective of gender.

Prof. Dr. Alina Pyka-Pająk
Prof. Dr. Wei Sun
Dr. Mónica Elvira Mendoza-Duarte
Dr. Agnieszka Zgoła-Grześkowiak
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-anonymized peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Processes is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Women’s Special Issue Series

This Special Issue is part of Processes's Women’s Special Issue Series, hosted by women editors for women researchers. The Series advocates the advancement of women in science. We invite contributions to the Special Issue whose lead authors identify as women. The submission of articles with all-women authorship is especially encouraged. However, we do welcome articles from all authors, irrespective of gender.

Keywords

  • chemical processes and systems
  • environmental processes
  • process control
  • energy systems
  • biological processes and systems
  • materials processes
  • pharmaceutical processes
  • food processing

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

23 pages, 4957 KB  
Article
Crystallographic Fingerprints of Thermal Textile Residues: Insights into Material Origin and Thermal Treatment Conditions from X-Ray Powder Diffraction and SEM–EDX
by Domenica Marabello, Federica Pau and Paola Benzi
Processes 2026, 14(18), 2901; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14182901 - 12 Sep 2026
Viewed by 339
Abstract
Thermal degradation of textile materials produces complex residues whose characterization can provide information on both the original material and the conditions experienced during heating. This study investigates the potential of X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD) as a complementary approach for the characterization of textile [...] Read more.
Thermal degradation of textile materials produces complex residues whose characterization can provide information on both the original material and the conditions experienced during heating. This study investigates the potential of X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD) as a complementary approach for the characterization of textile thermal residues and for evaluating whether crystallographic features can retain information on textile composition and thermal exposure conditions. Twenty-five commercial textile samples, including natural fibres (cotton and silk) and synthetic polyester-based fabrics, were characterized before and after controlled thermal treatments at 400 and 800 °C under air and a modified atmosphere containing 10% O2. The untreated fabrics exhibited characteristic diffraction patterns related to their fibre composition, whereas the residues showed significant changes depending on both the original textile and the treatment conditions. Higher-temperature treatments produced more crystalline residues, allowing improved discrimination among different textile categories. Differences between air and oxygen-limited conditions were also reflected in the diffraction patterns, indicating that oxygen availability influences the evolution of crystalline phases during thermal degradation. SEM–EDX analyses supported the interpretation of the diffraction data, although several residues showed complex patterns that prevented unambiguous phase identification. Overall, the results indicate that XRPD can provide valuable complementary information on the crystallographic evolution of textile thermal residues and may contribute to the characterization of textile composition and thermal exposure conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women’s Special Issue Series: Processes)
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26 pages, 3387 KB  
Article
Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents as Innovative Multifunctional Ingredients in Cosmetic Formulations: Scaling up from Lab to Industry
by Justyna Werner, Ewa Kilian-Pięta, Kornelia Rzepczyk, Mateusz Szczygiełda, Agnieszka Duczmal, Daria Mysiak and Damian Krystian Kaczmarek
Processes 2026, 14(17), 2850; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14172850 - 4 Sep 2026
Viewed by 636
Abstract
In recent years, the cosmetic and dermo-cosmetic industries have experienced a shift driven by the principles of green chemistry and the growing consumer demand for clean-beauty platforms. Conventional personal care formulations heavily rely on synthetic glycols, petroleum-derived penetration enhancers, and heavy chemical preservatives [...] Read more.
In recent years, the cosmetic and dermo-cosmetic industries have experienced a shift driven by the principles of green chemistry and the growing consumer demand for clean-beauty platforms. Conventional personal care formulations heavily rely on synthetic glycols, petroleum-derived penetration enhancers, and heavy chemical preservatives to stabilize active ingredients and optimize topical application. However, these ingredients are increasingly scrutinized due to their associated carbon footprints and processing inefficiencies. Consequently, the development of multi-functional, bio-based, and ecologically sustainable solvents has emerged as a primary frontier in modern cosmetic engineering. For the first time, this study focused on determining the physicochemical properties and direct cosmetic application potential of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADESs) based on 1,3-propanediol (PDO) and glycerin (GLY) paired with organic acids (citric, succinic, malic, and lactic) at a 6:1 molar ratio. Unlike traditional, highly viscous eutectic mixtures, the engineered NADESs successfully optimized liquid dynamic viscosities, overcoming a major barrier for topical application. The new NADESs and, for comparison, a physical mixture of their substrates were incorporated into aqueous serums and O/W emulsions. Accelerated stability trials (40 °C/4 °C, 3 months) combined with pH monitoring revealed that while liquid serums maintained exceptional stability, the emulsion formulations were highly dependent on the specific acid structures. All formulations of cosmetics demonstrated very good radical scavenging activity (up to 89% DPPH inhibition) and microbiological purity, complying with the ISO 17516:2014 standard. Furthermore, in vivo sensory evaluations visualized via heatmaps confirmed that NADESs effectively eliminated the characteristic “sticky effect” of polyols, significantly enhancing product ease of application on skin. This study provides the first systematic evidence that these NADESs offer seamless cold-process compounding, reduced homogenization times, and simplified single-pot operations. Consequently, this work establishes a novel, clean-beauty-compliant platform for advanced dermo-cosmetic manufacturing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women’s Special Issue Series: Processes)
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23 pages, 2525 KB  
Article
Process Control, Monitoring, and Statistical Analysis of Multi-Position Slitting and Rewinding in the Paper Industry
by Gabriela Bogdanovská and Marcela Pavlíčková
Processes 2026, 14(10), 1639; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14101639 - 19 May 2026
Viewed by 423
Abstract
The study investigates position-dependent variability in the slitting and rewinding process of filtration paper rolls under industrial conditions. Although individual cutting positions operate under identical machine settings, systematic differences between them lead to quality deviations and reduced process performance. Spatial variability was analyzed [...] Read more.
The study investigates position-dependent variability in the slitting and rewinding process of filtration paper rolls under industrial conditions. Although individual cutting positions operate under identical machine settings, systematic differences between them lead to quality deviations and reduced process performance. Spatial variability was analyzed using descriptive statistics, control charts, and process performance indices (Pp, Ppk), complemented by non-parametric statistical testing. The results revealed a significant spatial effect, with one slitting position responsible for most nonconforming products, highlighting the limitations of global capability indices, which may mask local systematic deviations in a multi-stream process. Potential root causes were identified using the 5 Whys method within the Quick Response Quality Control (QRQC) methodology. Following the implementation of corrective actions, including parameter adjustments, position-dependent control, and revised operating procedures, the observed proportion of nonconforming products reduced from 14.7% to 6.0%. Furthermore, after excluding the first rolls from the start-up phase, process performance improved to Pp = 1.36 and Ppk = 1.21. The study suggests that integrating global and position-level analysis in multi-stream manufacturing systems enables more targeted identification and mitigation of quality deviations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women’s Special Issue Series: Processes)
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28 pages, 6227 KB  
Article
New Dual-Action Azoles: Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Cytocompatible Candidates for Topical Wound Therapy
by Alina-Georgiana Cristea (Hohotă), Alina Viorica Iancu, Rodica Tatia, Maria Luisa di Gioia, Claudia-Simona Stefan, Ionut Dragostin, Elena-Lăcrămioara Lisă and Oana-Maria Dragostin
Processes 2026, 14(3), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14030409 - 24 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1373
Abstract
Wound healing is a complex process essential for maintaining skin integrity; however, the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria limits therapeutic options, highlighting the critical need for new antimicrobial agents. In this context, this research focused on the synthesis of new azole derivatives and their [...] Read more.
Wound healing is a complex process essential for maintaining skin integrity; however, the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria limits therapeutic options, highlighting the critical need for new antimicrobial agents. In this context, this research focused on the synthesis of new azole derivatives and their biological evaluation, specifically targeting antimicrobial, antioxidant, and biocompatible properties relevant to wound infections. In the present work, ketoconazole derivatives were obtained through an initial reaction with an excess of hydrazine hydrate, followed by condensation with benzaldehydes and cyclization with chloroacetyl chloride to form a β-lactam ring. These compounds were evaluated in vitro for antioxidant activity using FRAP, DPPH, and TAC assays, and for antimicrobial activity against a variety of microorganisms. Additionally, the cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay on a normal mouse fibroblast cell line (NCTC, clone L929) for evaluating the biocompatibility of the obtained compounds. Derivative K1 exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, a finding confirmed by all three assays. Regarding antimicrobial properties, all compounds demonstrated notable activity, with K1, K4 and K5 displaying superior efficacy. Significantly, the MTT assay revealed that the derivatives exhibit dose-dependent cytotoxicity but maintain favorable safety profiles at therapeutic concentrations, supporting their suitability for topical application. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the synthesized derivatives may serve as promising leads for infected wound therapy. Future research will further explore the therapeutical potential of these compounds, together with their incorporation into polymeric films designed for chronic wound treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women’s Special Issue Series: Processes)
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16 pages, 2537 KB  
Article
Recycling of Polypropylene with Vitamin E Additives: Rheological Properties and Mechanical Characteristics
by Gulbarshin Shambilova, Alexander Korshunov, Markel Vinogradov, Zhanar Kadasheva, Rinat Iskakov, Altynay Kalauova, Georgy Makarov, Danagul Kalimanova and Sergey Legkov
Processes 2025, 13(12), 3923; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13123923 - 4 Dec 2025
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1093
Abstract
Polypropylene (PP) is a highly sought-after synthetic polymer. Due to its properties, it has wide applications in a number of industries. One-dimensional molded materials (fibers and strands) are widely used in the textile and construction sectors. Concrete reinforcing using PP fiber is an [...] Read more.
Polypropylene (PP) is a highly sought-after synthetic polymer. Due to its properties, it has wide applications in a number of industries. One-dimensional molded materials (fibers and strands) are widely used in the textile and construction sectors. Concrete reinforcing using PP fiber is an intriguing use in construction. Fiber can be provided in two forms: fine fibers (microfiber) and extrudates (macrofiber). The macrofiber has a length of up to 60 mm and a thickness of up to 300 microns. The aim of the work was to obtain PP-based macrofibers from recycled polymer using the natural antioxidant tocopherol. The initial polymer is used to produce the fiber, whereas, in this work, it is proposed to use a secondary PP. Vitamin E, a natural antioxidant, was added to the system to stabilize the melts. It has been demonstrated that adding up to 0.5% Vitamin E reduces the heat degradation of the polymer and yields melts with the appropriate viscoelastic characteristics. Rheological data was used to determine the fiber’s formability window. Macrofibers were derived from melts with varying histories. Their structure was investigated using X-ray structural analysis and IR spectroscopy, and their mechanical characteristics were assessed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women’s Special Issue Series: Processes)
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25 pages, 5570 KB  
Article
A Data-Driven Method with Fusing Mechanism Information for Li-Ion Battery State of Charge Estimation
by Zhanghua Xiao, Jingzhi Rao, Cheng Ji, Fangyuan Ma, Jingde Wang and Wei Sun
Processes 2025, 13(11), 3597; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13113597 - 7 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1133
Abstract
Lithium-ion batteries have been extensively utilized as a high-power, rechargeable, and dischargeable energy storage medium. Accurate estimation of the battery state of charge (SOC) in the battery management system (BMS) is imperative for ensuring the safe and stable operation of electric vehicles. This [...] Read more.
Lithium-ion batteries have been extensively utilized as a high-power, rechargeable, and dischargeable energy storage medium. Accurate estimation of the battery state of charge (SOC) in the battery management system (BMS) is imperative for ensuring the safe and stable operation of electric vehicles. This paper proposes an SOC estimation method based on the equivalent circuit model as well as the ampere-time integration method with a physical informed neural network. The network enhances the estimation of SOC by introducing two mechanistic information sources: the equivalent circuit model (ECM) and the ampere-time integration method (Ah-I method). These are utilized as a priori knowledge to constrain the estimation of SOC. Initially, the Rint model is selected as the physical analysis model of the lithium-ion battery, and subsequently, the Ah-I method is chosen as the auxiliary model for SOC output estimation. A deep learning network is then employed to establish the mapping between the battery input parameters and the SOC output. Finally, the SOC is estimated by fusing the physical model and the data-driven model. The results demonstrate the efficacy of the method in accurately estimating the state of charge of lithium batteries, with a root mean square error within 1%. The validity of the research methodology was further validated through comparison with other approaches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women’s Special Issue Series: Processes)
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