Qatar University (QU) and Qatar Petrochemical Company (Qapco), a leading petrochemical powerhouses in the region, has renewed the Qapco Polymer Chair at the Qatar University.

 

Based in QU’s Center for Advanced Materials (CAM) and chaired by professor Igor Krupa, the chair focuses on research activities revolving around material science and engineering, polyolefins and polymer nanotechnology and involving Qapco’s main product, polyethylene, along with other by-products.

 

In particular, Dr Krupa and his team pursue research on polyolefin processing and advanced characterisation. 

 

They also work closely with Qapco R&D team to explore the development of novel applications related to biodegradable plastics and polymer based composite materials.

 

Dr Hassan Rashid, QU president, highlighted the importance of collaboration between QU and QAPCO, which is a main partner to the university, said: “The collaboration between both institutions for the renewal of the Qapco Polymer Chair at QU Center for Advanced Materials will contribute to developing research activities in materials science and engineering, and will ensure the exchange of scientific and practical knowledge between students and researchers. 

 

"It will also provide faculty and students at QU with the opportunity to develop their abilities and skills in this scientific field, and will encourage the establishment of new research programs which will facilitate research processes in the future.”

 

Dr Mohammed Yousef Al Mulla, Qapco's managing director and chief executive officer, said: “Polymer research and innovation is a strategic priority for Qapco because it creates new applications for polyethylene products and stimulates the development of advanced technology, skilled jobs from the laboratory to the classroom. 

 

"As we advance towards our vision of prosperity through innovation, we leverage our expertise in polymer science to support programs that deliver direct value to Qatar through support of the QNV 2030. 

 

"Through our effective and prolific collaboration with Qatar University and CAM, our teams advance material science knowledge transfer and education and encourage sustainable, made-in-Qatar ground-breaking discoveries.” - TradeArabia News Service