Khalifa University And Ducab Group Collaborate To Enhance Research On 2D Materials For Industrial Applications

Khalifa University of Science and Technology has partnered with Ducab Group, a prominent UAE energy solutions provider, to enhance research on two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials. This collaboration, backed by ADQ’s R&D Fund, aims to boost the UAE's position in advanced manufacturing and industrial innovation through various projects.

The initial project under this partnership focuses on creating next-generation fire-retardant cables. By integrating nanomaterials like graphene and hexagonal boron nitride into advanced polymer composites, they aim to develop innovative solutions. This marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between Khalifa University and Ducab Group.

This partnership aligns with ADQ’s investment in emerging technologies to deliver new industrial solutions. The agreement was formalised by Professor Bayan Sharif, Provost of Khalifa University, and Charles-Edouard Mellagui, CEO of Ducab Cables Business. Professor Sharif highlighted the university's mission to impact industry through advanced research while nurturing future innovators.

Professor Sharif stated, "This partnership with Ducab Group reflects Khalifa University’s mission to create industrial impact through advanced research, while nurturing the next generation of innovators. Alongside our world-class faculty, the collaboration will engage our students, providing hands-on experience in solving real-world industrial challenges, especially in advancing research and industrial applications of 2D materials and fire safety."

Mellagui expressed that this initiative is crucial for Ducab's commitment to pioneering technologies that enhance safety and performance in power cable applications. He said, "This initiative marks an important step in Ducab’s journey to champion advanced technologies that set new benchmarks in safety, reliability, and performance across critical power cable fields and applications. By working closely with Khalifa University and under the umbrella of ADQ’s commitment to innovation, we are not only strengthening our R&D capabilities but also ensuring that the UAE remains at the forefront of industrial advancement."

The research team at Khalifa University will be led by Dr. Yarjan Abdul Samad from Aerospace Engineering. Contributions will also come from Prof. Kyriaki Polychronopoulou and Dr. Imad Barsoum from Mechanical & Nuclear Engineering. They will work alongside postdoctoral researchers and PhD students in collaboration with Ducab engineers.

This strategic partnership signifies a significant step towards advancing industrial applications using 2D materials. It highlights both institutions' dedication to fostering innovation within the UAE's manufacturing sector.

With inputs from WAM