Introduction

Advanced Materials Laboratory (AML), Can Tho University (CTU)

At the Advanced Materials Laboratory (AML), Can Tho University (CTU), our research focuses on the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of advanced porous materials, nanostructured materials, and functional thin films to address emerging challenges in water purification, sustainable energy, and resource recovery. By integrating materials science, electrochemical engineering, photocatalysis, and machine learning, we aim to develop innovative and sustainable technologies aligned with the principles of green chemistry and the circular economy.

Our main research directions include:

1. Advanced membrane materials for water purification and separation

We develop high-performance membrane materials using electrospinning, surface modification, and interfacial engineering to improve water permeability, separation selectivity, mechanical stability, and antifouling properties. Our research primarily focuses on forward osmosis (FO), membrane distillation (MD), and other membrane-based separation technologies. Potential applications include seawater and brackish water desalination, wastewater treatment, and the recovery and separation of bioactive compounds and pharmaceutical substances.

2. Nanostructured photocatalysts and quantum dots for sustainable energy

Our team designs and synthesizes functional nanomaterials, thin films, and quantum dots with tailored optical, electronic, and photocatalytic properties. These materials are investigated for photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical hydrogen production, pollutant degradation, and next-generation solar cells. We aim to establish structure–property–performance relationships to improve charge separation, light utilization, and overall energy conversion efficiency.

3. Electrocatalysis for water splitting, nitrate reduction, and biomass electrooxidation

We develop advanced electrocatalysts and functional electrode materials for electrochemical water splitting, including the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), with the aim of improving catalytic activity, energy efficiency, and long-term stability for sustainable hydrogen production. Our research also explores electrocatalytic nitrate reduction for nitrate removal from contaminated water and the selective conversion of nitrate into value-added products, such as ammonia. In parallel, we investigate the electrooxidation of biomass-derived compounds as an alternative to conventional oxygen evolution, with the potential to reduce energy consumption while producing value-added chemicals. Through catalyst design, electrode engineering, and electrochemical performance evaluation, we seek to advance efficient and sustainable electrochemical technologies for clean energy generation, environmental remediation, and biomass valorization.

4. Machine learning for materials discovery and optimization

We integrate machine learning with materials synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation to accelerate the discovery and optimization of functional materials. By combining experimental datasets, materials descriptors, and predictive modeling, we aim to identify promising material compositions, establish relationships between structural and physicochemical properties, and optimize performance for membrane separation, photocatalysis, hydrogen-related technologies, and electrocatalytic processes. This data-driven approach complements conventional experimental methods and supports more efficient, targeted materials development.

At AML, we combine materials innovation, advanced fabrication techniques, electrochemical processes, and data-driven approaches to advance sustainable solutions for clean water, renewable energy, and resource valorization. Through interdisciplinary research and international collaboration, we strive to bridge fundamental materials science and practical applications, contributing to a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.