Nguyen Tri Phuong, 49, is a professor at the University of Quebec at Trois-Rivieres (UQTR), Canada, where he directs the postgraduate program in materials science and energy.
In late February, Phuong secured a 1.05 million USD grant, equivalent to approximately 27.5 billion VND, from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and various businesses. This funding supports his research aimed at enhancing the durability and lifespan of Canada's high-voltage power line systems.
Speaking to VnExpress on 6/3, Phuong explained the research addresses the aging and frequent failures of over 11,420 km of extra-high-voltage power lines operated by Hydro-Quebec (TransEnergie). This infrastructure represents one of North America's largest power transmission systems.
To tackle this, Phuong's team employs accelerated material aging methods in the laboratory, integrated with mathematical models. This approach helps evaluate current material lifespans and develop superior replacement materials. Initial research has shown promising results.
Between now and 2030, Phuong and his collaborators plan to finalize the development of advanced elastic compounds. These materials are specifically designed for use in dampers and clamp seals within high-voltage power line transmission systems.
"This research will address existing vulnerabilities in the power transmission system, enhancing Canada's self-reliance in designing sustainable energy infrastructure", Phuong stated.
"Furthermore, by extending material lifespan, the project is expected to reduce annual maintenance costs by millions of USD, fostering a flexible and environmentally sound energy infrastructure".
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Professor Nguyen Tri Phuong in Canada. *Photo: Courtesy of subject*
On the University of Quebec website, Rector Christian Blanchette expressed pride in the university's scientist for developing advanced energy and environmental solutions that serve Canada's industrial needs.
According to Sebastien Charles, Vice-Rector for Research and Development, Phuong is among UQTR's distinguished researchers. He has assembled a team of esteemed doctoral students and professors, empowering them to "collectively push boundaries".
"Phuong's dynamism is crucial for the university's innovation, paving the way for tangible results and positioning UQTR within the international research and development ecosystem", Charles noted.
From a student who "played more than studied" to a leading Canadian university
Nguyen Tri Phuong was born in 1977 in the former Quoc Oai district of Hanoi. After earning his bachelor's degree from the University of Natural Sciences (Vietnam National University, Hanoi) in 1999, he received a government scholarship to pursue studies in France.
He completed his doctoral degree at CNAM Institute in France in 2009, where he then served as a lecturer for two years. Subsequently, he moved to Canada, working as a research fellow at Polytechnic Montreal and the University of Montreal before joining the University of Quebec at Trois-Rivieres as a professor.
In 2019, Phuong established UQTR's Advanced Materials Laboratory for Energy and Environment, leading numerous projects focused on green and sustainable technology. He has published nearly 200 scientific articles, holds multiple international patents, and has edited over 10 specialized reference books.
Thanh Hang
