Blog

From Developing to Developed: The role of Materials Engineering in the Development of Africa

The blog emphasizes the importance of materials engineering in Africa's development, contrasting it with countries like China and Japan. It highlights the need for more investment in engineering, particularly in sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, and manufacturing. Challenges include inadequate infrastructure, skilled professionals, political instability, and corruption. The passage calls for African unity in prioritizing science and engineering for self-reliance.

Exploring the Role of Materials Science in Renewable Energy

Climate change poses a significant threat due to fossil fuel use. To tackle this, we must swiftly transition to renewable energy sources. Materials science is key in creating new materials for clean energy solutions. Scientists in this field continuously innovate to enhance renewable energy technologies. Solar panels are crucial for solar energy. While silicon has been the main material, researchers are now exploring perovskites for better efficiency. Advances in thin-film technology also offer lighter and flexible solar panels. Wind turbines require lightweight and sturdy materials. Composite materials, such as carbon fiber and polymers, are used for durable blades. Research is also looking into materials that can withstand harsh weather. Geothermal energy needs specialized materials for extreme temperatures. High-temperature alloys and corrosion-resistant materials are being developed for pipes and equipment. Materials science is vital for constructing efficient structures for hydropower. Advances in concrete technology enhance dam strength, while turbines use corrosion-resistant steels for optimal energy generation. Bioenergy utilizes organic matter for energy. Materials science is crucial for efficient enzymes and bioreactors with optimized materials. Efficient energy storage is essential for solar and wind power. Researchers are enhancing lithium-ion batteries and exploring alternatives like flow batteries and supercapacitors.

Redesigning Construction: A Materials Innovation Approach

Nature has always demonstrated the potential of materials in construction, with materials innovation being a key focus. Bamboo and cross laminated timber are being used to reduce pollution and water pollution by replacing iron and steel in construction. Plastic pollution can be addressed by recycling PET and HDPE materials into bricks, self-healing asphalt for road repairs, and mechanical filtration for pollution absorption. Glass waste can be used to create smart glass and patterned glass, reducing waste and improving safety in the construction industry.

The Green energy challenge!

A green energy challenge was organized by the Student Representative Council and Starzec energy company in Ghana to reduce carbon emissions in the Knust community. As part of the Materials Innovation Hub's visions, aimed to equip students with problem-solving skills and innovative thinking MiH formed groups which applied for the challenge. Six out of ten teams from MiH successfully entered the challenge, with the Hydrogen Fuel Cell and Biogas Technology solutions being among the entries. Five of the six teams advanced to the semi-finals stage, with the Hydrogen Fuel Cell team being placed in the top five.

Transforming Plantain Pseudostems to eco-friendly Menstrual Pads

A team of students at the Materials Innovation Hub (MIH) in Ghana has developed a menstrual pad product called the "plad" using plantain pseudostems, an abundant agricultural waste in Ghana. The plad, which is biodegradable, is a significant innovation in menstrual hygiene due to its low environmental footprint. The plad is cost-effective and accessible for women and girls, especially in the Ghanaian community where traditional pads are expensive. The project won first place at the TEKCONFAB23 and third place at the BSUIII Academia-Industry Research and Innovation Conference. The plad represents a groundbreaking innovation in menstrual hygiene, demonstrating the potential of sustainable materials and challenging traditional approaches.