Accra:Materials chemistry is playing a crucial role in advancing innovation across various sectors, such as energy, health, and environmental protection, according to Professor Lamine Zerbo. Professor Zerbo, a teacher-researcher in Mineral Chemistry and Materials Chemistry and the director of the Doctoral School of Sciences and Technologies at Joseph Ki-Zerbo University, highlighted the importance of this field in an interview.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Professor Zerbo explained that materials chemistry focuses on the study and transformation of solids to create new materials. He emphasized the significance of materials in the evolution of civilizations, from the Stone Age to modern advancements like silicon and nanomaterials.
Ceramic materials, such as pottery, bricks, tiles, cements, and concretes, have been pivotal in this progression. Technical ceramics now have applications in electronics, automotive, aeronautics, and healthcare sectors. In medicine, they are used in manufacturing dental prostheses and reconstructing bone structures. Digital technologies and 3D printing enable the design of customized parts from medical imaging.
In the energy sector, ceramics play a role in nuclear power and battery development, especially those featuring solid electrolytes. Professor Zerbo asserted that the development of locally adapted materials is essential for progress. Materials chemistry also provides solutions for water treatment and pollution control, with local clays being modified to remove heavy metals and other pollutants from wastewater.
Professor Zerbo noted that these materials could be especially beneficial for the mining industry, which must treat its effluents before releasing them into nature. His research also explores materials capable of capturing polluting gases like nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide. Modified concretes could reduce pollutants in environments such as road tunnels.
Furthermore, he discussed geopolymers and porous structures that can trap undesirable molecules in water or the environment. Recognizing Burkina Faso's potential due to its local raw materials, Professor Zerbo called for enhanced integration between research and experimentation to turn scientific findings into practical innovations. He stressed the need for effective and affordable materials that align with the population's needs and the country's realities.