Musa Abdulrahman Adeiza Defends PhD Dissertation on Sustainable Composite Materials for Automotive Use

Musa Abdulrahman Adeiza of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering of the African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja successfully defended his Ph.D dissertation.

The event which took place on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at the AUSTInspire Hub focused on the development of bio-based composite materials for automotive structural applications.

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

Presenting his dissertation, 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.

He 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.

The AUST President, Professor Azikiwe Peter Onwualu,FAS, and Dr Minkook Kim both commended the depth and relevance of the research, while raising requesting for further research work on the industrial scalability of the research work.

Adeiza acknowledged existing challenges, particularly with certain manufacturing processes, but opined that feasible methods such as resin transfer moulding and press forming is required for large-scale adoption.

The defense is 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.

The epoch- making event was attended by Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS, Dr. Abdulhakeem Bello, Ag. Vice President, Academic; Dr. Vitalis Anye, Dean, School of Engineering; Dr. Anthony Anyakorah, faculty, Mechanical Engineering department and Coordinator, AUST Consultancy Services; Dr. Odette Fayen Ngasoh, Faculty, Mechanical Engineering and others to mention but few.

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.