Abu Dhabi:Students from the Department of Environmental Science and Sustainability at Zayed University participated in the ADIPEC 2026 Technical Conference, an international energy event, after receiving an invitation from the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.
According to Wam, the students presented a project titled 'From Desert Biomass to Bio-Based Functional Polymers for Sustainable Water Management and Energy-Sector Applications.' The research, conducted by Sawsan Salem Mubarak Mohamed Aljaberi and Shahad Omar Salem Omar Aljaari under the supervision of Dr. Maisa El Gamal, focuses on transforming local plant residues into sustainable materials.
The project explores cellulose extraction and its conversion into functional biopolymers. Preliminary findings indicate successful chemical modification of cellulose, verified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, with thermogravimetric analysis providing insights into the materials' thermal stability.
The research underscores the potential of bio-based polymers for sustainable agriculture, soil water management, and applications in oil and gas drilling. It supports the UAE's circular economy goals, sustainable resource use, and national innovation priorities.
Additionally, the students' involvement in this platform highlights Zayed University's dedication to promoting research excellence and innovative solutions for environmental and industrial challenges.
