AUST Hosts Successful PhD Defence on Sustainable Composite Materials for Automotive Use

The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja, recently hosted a successful doctoral thesis defence by Musa Abdulrahman Adeiza of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. The defence, held on Wednesday, 1 April 2026 at the AUSTInspire Hub and online, centred on the development of advanced bio-based composite materials for automotive structural applications.

Adezie’s thesis, titled “Development and of Bio-based Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites for Automotive Structural Applications,” explored innovative approaches to improving the performance and sustainability of fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. The research was supervised by Professor Azikiwe Peter Onwualu and Dr Minkook Kim.

 The session commenced with formal introductions by the chairman Dr Vitalis Anye,  Dean School of Engineering” who outlined the defence procedure comprising the candidate’s presentation, examiner questioning, and a closed-door deliberation. In attendance were distinguished academics including Dr Abduhakeem Bello, DAP/DVP, Dr David Afolayan,Hod Mechnical Engineering Department and Dr Anthony Anyakora,HeadAUST  Consultancy services, Dr Odette, Ms. Lizzy Asomugha Ag Head General studies, Mr Kingsley Ogwudu Senior Manager AUSTInspire Hub, alongside faculty members and students.

 During the presentation, Mr. Adeiza highlighted the critical importance of the fibre–matrix interface in determining the strength and durability of composite materials. He noted that weak interfacial bonding often leads to premature material failure, particularly in natural fibre systems, despite their environmental advantages.

 Mr. Adeiza presented findings from two major research projects, focusing on the incorporation of nanoscale cellulose additives and nanoparticles to enhance interfacial bonding and mechanical performance. He compared direct mixing techniques with a more advanced grafting approach, demonstrating that grafting significantly improved tensile strength, impact resistance, and overall structural integrity, while maintaining stiffness.

The research also extended to structural applications, where the optimised composite material was fabricated into a prototype profile to simulate real-world automotive components. Experimental testing, supported by numerical simulations using advanced damage models, showed improved energy absorption and more controlled failure behaviour key requirements for crashworthiness in automotive design.

 During the examination segment, the President Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, and Dr Minkook Kim both  commended the depth and relevance of the research while raising questions on industrial scalability. The candidate acknowledged existing challenges, particularly with certain manufacturing processes, but identified feasible methods such as resin transfer moulding and press forming, noting that further validation is required for large-scale adoption.

Following deliberations, the panel recommended that the candidate be awarded the PhD subject to minor revisions, in line with institutional guidelines. The outcome reflects the high quality of the research, with only minor corrections required before final submission.

The session concluded with acknowledgements to the supervisory team, external collaborators, and participants, as well as a call for continued academic and research partnerships.

Adeiza’s work contributes significantly to the advancement of sustainable composite materials and highlights AUST’s commitment to cutting-edge research with practical industrial applications.