Biotech-Driven Innovation
At the intersection of biotechnology and chemical engineering, our research has generated cutting-edge innovations that integrate biological systems into industrial processes for enhanced performance and sustainability.
MICROALGAE CULTIVATION
A central component of this work involves the development of microalgae cultivation to address environmental and production challenges. Our work has demonstrated its effectiveness in diverse applications, including biofuels production, biocement synthesis, wastewater treatment, CO₂ capture, and the extraction of proteins and pigments. These systems offer a multifunctional approach that couples environmental remediation with bioproduct generation, contributing to a circular and carbon-conscious economy.
BIOTREATMENT OF INDUSTRIAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT
We have led groundbreaking work on bacterial-based wastewater treatment, with a major research project launched in 2007. This initiative focused on the treatment of petroleum refinery wastewater using a combination of electrocoagulation, adsorption, and biotreatment with immobilized bacteria in a spouted bed bioreactor. The results demonstrated significant removal of organic pollutants and operational robustness, leading to the design and commissioning of a pilot-scale treatment plant at a local refinery in 2010. This work received the UAE University’s Best Externally Funded Research Award in 2008 and was protected by Canadian Patent.
PATENTS
CYCLODEXTRIN PRODUCTION
Another key focus of our biotech innovation is enzyme immobilization. We have developed novel approaches for immobilizing cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase on MOFs, allowing for continuous and high-purity cyclodextrin production from cellulose in membrane bioreactor systems. This technology is the subject of a current US patent application and holds strong potential for industrial use in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food processing, and specialty chemicals.