From Metal-Water Reactions to Green Energetic Materials: Dr. Yavor’s Path to Advancing Propulsion and Energy Systems

1. Your research spans multiple fields, including metal combustion, hydrogen generation, and solid propellants. What do you see as the most pressing challenge in these areas today?

Dr. Yavor: “One of the major challenges is achieving efficient and scalable metal-based energy conversion while balancing performance, safety, and environmental concerns. In hydrogen generation, metal-water reactions offer a promising pathway for sustainable energy, but controlling reaction kinetics and optimizing fuel utilization remain key hurdles. Similarly, in solid propellants, improving combustion efficiency and reducing agglomeration, while minimizing environmental impact is a challenge. Advancements in computational modeling and experimental diagnostics are crucial in addressing these issues.”

2. You have worked extensively on metal-water reactions for hydrogen production. How do you envision this technology contributing to future energy systems?

Dr. Yavor: “One liter of water contains roughly 50% more hydrogen than liquid hydrogen. That, together with greatly reduced safety concerns, no availability issues, practically no cost, and no need for extensive cooling. Metal-water reactions present an attractive method for on-demand hydrogen generation, particularly for applications where compressed hydrogen storage is impractical, or in-situ production is required. By selecting appropriate metal compositions and catalysts, we can develop efficient, compact, and safer hydrogen sources for fuel cells, aerospace applications, and even emergency power systems. Future research should focus on improving reaction control, recyclability of metal oxides, and integrating these systems into renewable energy infrastructures.”

3. As an editor, what are the key attributes you look for in a high-quality research paper?

Dr. Yavor: “A strong research paper should be well-structured, present a novel contribution, and demonstrate a rigorous scientific approach. Clarity in writing, logical argumentation, and thorough experimental or computational validation are crucial. Additionally, proper citation of relevant literature and a well-defined problem statement help in establishing the significance of the work. A compelling discussion of results and their broader impact also enhances a paper’s quality.”

4. What are common reasons for manuscript rejection, and how can authors avoid them?

Dr. Yavor: “Common reasons include a lack of novelty, poor experimental design, insufficient data interpretation, and unclear writing. Some manuscripts fail to position their work in the context of existing literature, making it difficult to assess their contribution. Authors can improve their chances by conducting thorough literature reviews, clearly stating the research gap, ensuring methodological soundness, and carefully proofreading their manuscripts.”

5. Research in energetic materials often involves experimental work with hazardous substances. What best practices should researchers follow to ensure safety in the lab?

Dr. Yavor: “Safety is paramount in energetic materials research. Researchers should follow strict protocols, including using proper protective gear, working in controlled environments, and adhering to regulatory guidelines. Risk assessments should be conducted before any experiment, and emergency procedures must be well-defined. Additionally, collaboration with safety officers and continuous training can help maintain high safety standards in research facilities.”

6. What are your thoughts on the increasing emphasis on citation metrics and impact factors in academia?

Dr. Yavor: “While citation metrics provide a useful measure of research visibility, they should not overshadow the actual scientific contribution of a paper, especially in fields with smaller scientific communities such as those of energetic materials. High-impact research is not always the most cited, and excessive focus on impact factors can sometimes discourage innovative but niche studies. Instead, researchers should prioritize the quality and long-term significance of their work while engaging with the community through conferences, collaborations, and open discussions.”

7. Your role at Afeka College involves mentoring students and early-career researchers. What advice do you have for young scientists entering the field of energetic materials?

Dr. Yavor: “Young researchers should focus on building a strong foundation in fundamental principles while staying updated with emerging trends. Interdisciplinary knowledge, hands-on experimental skills, and a problem-solving mindset are invaluable. It is also important to cultivate a network through conferences, research collaborations, and publishing. Finally, perseverance is key—scientific research is full of challenges, but persistence and curiosity drive impactful discoveries.”

8. What emerging trends in energetic materials research excite you the most?

Dr. Yavor: “Several exciting developments are shaping the future of energetic materials. Metal-based energetic additives are gaining attention for their potential to enhance combustion performance and sustainability. Additionally, nanotechnology is opening new avenues for improved energetic material formulations. Green energetic materials, including environmentally friendly oxidizers and novel synthesis routes, are also promising areas that align with global sustainability goals. Finally, it is crucial to incorporate AI and machine‑learning tools into novel research works, as we do in Afeka.”

9. How do you see the role of academia in bridging the gap between laboratory research and real-world applications?

Dr. Yavor: “Academia plays a crucial role in foundational research and technological innovation. Collaborations with industry, defense organizations, and government agencies help translate academic findings into practical applications. Establishing research centers, securing industry partnerships, and engaging in technology transfer initiatives can significantly accelerate the commercialization of scientific advancements.”

10. What common habits or practices set apart researchers who consistently publish in high-quality journals?

Dr. Yavor: “They focus on selecting meaningful and timely research topics that address critical gaps in their field, ensuring their work is novel, relevant, and has broad scientific or practical implications. Their research is characterized by rigorous methodology, with precise experimental design, robust data analysis, and clear validation of results. Successful researchers also prioritize writing with clarity and impact, crafting well-structured manuscripts that adhere to journal guidelines and present their findings in an accessible way. They carefully choose the right journals that align with the scope of their research, ensuring a good fit with readership and editorial priorities. Additionally, these researchers actively engage in the peer review process, both by reviewing other manuscripts and refining their own work based on feedback. They often collaborate with experts across disciplines, enhancing the depth and impact of their research.”

Thanks to Dr. Yinon Yavor, for sharing his invaluable insights and experiences. His work in metal-water reactions to green energetic materials continues to shape the future of propulsion, energy, and sustainability, inspiring the next generation of researchers