# Materials Discovery (MD)

**Source**: https://www.hbku.edu.qa/en/qeeri/materials-unit/md
**Parent**: https://www.hbku.edu.qa/en/qeeri/materials-unit

## Overview

This initiative drives innovations in energy, water, and environment through advanced materials discovery,
combining synthesis, plasma science, and AI-driven design that unlock transformative applications and boost
next-generation technologies.

## Projects

- STRIVE - Sensing and Rectennas for Resilient Monitoring in Harsh Environments
- THERMOCOOL - Sustainable Thermoelectric and Cooling Nanomaterials

This project addresses a critical global challenge: detecting hazardous gases in confined or
high-risk environments. Such spaces are prone to the buildup of hazardous gases, including
methane (CH4), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and
volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Accurate and timely detection of these gases is essential
for protecting human health, ensuring operational safety, and preventing environmental harm.
However, current detection systems often suffer from limited sensitivity, selectivity, and
real-time performance, especially in harsh or variable conditions. To overcome these
limitations, the project focuses on developing advanced functional materials and sensor
platforms using Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) and state-of-the-art nanofabrication
techniques. These include gallium oxide (Ga2O3) and two-dimensional layered semiconductors
for high-performance gas sensors and photodetectors, complemented by engineered carbon
nanostructures for RFID-enabled wireless sensing. The resulting devices are designed for
real-time monitoring, IoT integration, and robust operation in extreme environments. Beyond
industrial safety, the project leverages terahertz (THz) sensing technologies to broaden its
impact across environmental and societal domains. THz sensors offer high sensitivity for
detecting trace pollutants through molecular fingerprinting, safe non-ionizing operation,
and the ability to penetrate non-metallic materials. These features enable precise,
contactless analysis for diverse applications such as air quality management, climate
monitoring, precision agriculture, and disaster response. By integrating advanced materials,
multifunctional sensing platforms, and THz-enabled capabilities, the project aims to deliver
scalable, durable, and intelligent solutions for hazardous gas detection, worker safety, and
sustainable environmental monitoring.

This project aims to advance nanomaterials for both TE and RC applications by researchers
from Qatar and leading international institutions. Novel TE thin films will be developed via
Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE), while bulk TE materials will be synthesized through advanced
solid-state reactions. Comprehensive TE measurements and structural characterization at HBKU
and partner laboratories will establish critical links between material properties and
energy-conversion efficiency. Simultaneously, innovative RC nanomaterials will be engineered
to enhance passive RC under extreme environmental conditions. Furthermore, different
engineering approaches will be investigated for deploying TE coolers for managing heat in
electric vehicle chargers. Ultimately, this project aligns with Qatar’s National Development
Strategy, strengthening its global role in advancing zero-carbon energy solutions.