Research activities in this focus area consider:

• Development, evaluation and application of novel and advanced materials (obtained from local sources) to facilitate sustainability and wealth creation. Application of these materials in areas such as environment, medicine, sensing and monitoring will be a focus;
• Synthesis, characterization and evaluation of nanomaterials (porous/non-porous) like carbon nanotubes, carbon nano-yarns, zeolites, biocomposites, biopolymers, fluoropolymers will be studied for application in catalysis, separation technology, energy and environment;
• Understanding dynamic behaviour, structural integrity and interaction of these materials using molecular modelling approach towards enhancing sustainable synthesis and applicability of these materials;
• In-depth understanding of resistance of these materials to wear, tear and corrosion via tribology will be considered.

Leader: Prof Walter Focke (currently the Director of Institute of Advanced Materials);

Assistant Leader:   Prof Johan Labuschagne

Team Members:   Prof Heydenrych, Prof Crouse,Prof van Vuuren, Prof Daramola, Mr Sonnendecker, Mrs du Toit, Dr Tichapondwa, Dr Shatish Ramjee, Prof Musee, Prof de Vaal, Mr Barend du Plessis and Dr Merckel