Research on Cellulose Materials Tackles Major Societal Challenges
With a focus on cellulose-based materials and eco-friendly processes, Abdolrahim Abbaszad Rafi highlights new opportunities for sustainable development in both industry and society.
On January 23, 2025, Abdolrahim Abbaszad Rafi will defend his doctoral thesis. His research, "Sustainable Engineering, Click Chemistry and Catalysis: Modification, Fabrication and Application of Cellulosic Materials", addresses several of today’s major societal challenges—from replacing fossil-based materials to developing more sustainable manufacturing processes. By utilizing natural, renewable resources such as cellulose and creating innovative methods to enhance its properties, Abdolrahim opens up possibilities for applications in packaging, construction materials, advanced composites, and more.
– One example is the development of strong hydrophobic wood-based materials that, with the help of betulin from birch bark and hot pressing, can compete with fossil based unsustainable materials, says Abdolrahim Abbaszad Rafi.
These materials and processes are not only environmentally friendly but also scalable and cost-effective for industrial use.
Catalysts That Reduce Environmental Impact
The thesis also demonstrates how cellulose materials can be used to create recyclable and reusable catalysts. These catalysts can play a key role in chemical processes that currently rely on less sustainable alternatives, thereby reducing resource consumption and environmental impact.
Relevance to the Green Transition
Abdolrahim’s research is directly linked to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals by offering solutions that reduce the need for fossil-based materials, minimize waste, and optimize the use of natural resources.
– I chose this research area because it aligns with my passion for protecting Mother Earth and our planet. Developing and exploring eco-friendly solutions has been the driving force behind my academic journey in sustainable materials and chemistry. The combination of chemistry, engineering, and forest-based materials has great potential to address global challenges, says Abdolrahim Abbaszad Rafi.
What Could This Research Lead To?
The findings in the thesis lay a solid foundation for future innovations. In the short term, the methods can be used to create more environmentally friendly materials for packaging and construction components. In the long term, the research could contribute to the development of high-tech applications, such as nanocomposites for medical technology, sensors, and advanced catalysts for green chemical processes.
– With on going research and collaboration between academia and industry, these technologies can be scaled up and utilized across more sectors, says Abdolrahim Abbaszad Rafi.
Defense
The defense will take place on January 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM, in room C312 at the Sundsvall campus and via Zoom. The opponent will be Professor Monica Ek from KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, and the main supervisor is Professor Armando Cordova at Mid Sweden University.
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