A Seminar on “The Impact of Materials Characterisation in the Development of Cost-Effective Solutions: When Materials Meet Application” was held on March 26, 2026, at the Entrepreneurship Model Lecture Room of the Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU). The programme was organised by the Engineering Design and Innovation Centre (EDIC) in collaboration with the School of Engineering, CCTU.

The event began with a welcome address delivered by Dr. Kwame Anane-Fenin, the Director of EDIC, while Dr. Gabriel Amissah, Vice Dean of the School of Engineering, chaired the session. The Guest Speaker, Dr Mukuna Patrick Mubiayi, is a Senior Lecturer at the Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability (iNanoWS), University of South Africa (UNISA). He is also a National Research Foundation (NRF) C3-rated researcher and a member of the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE) and the International Association of Engineers (IAENG).

In his presentation, Dr Mubiayi emphasised the critical importance of understanding material behaviour in the design of sustainable and cost-effective engineering solutions. He highlighted that materials characterisation was indispensable in modern industry, noting that “materials speak”, and that “a proper understanding of their properties drives innovation”. He further stressed that accurate characterisation enabled engineers to solve problems effectively without introducing new challenges.

The Guest Speaker also discussed key characterisation techniques, including X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). He explored the role of nanotechnology, outlining both its advantages and limitations. Additionally, he examined the application of various materials, particularly sustainable materials, across different sectors, with special emphasis on water treatment. Relevant case studies demonstrating the use of well-characterised and sustainable materials were also presented.

The seminar concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session, during which participants’ queries were comprehensively addressed by the Speaker. Attendees included faculty and administrative staff of the University, particularly staff of EDIC and the School of Engineering.

In his closing remarks, the Chairperson expressed sincere appreciation to Dr Mukuna Patrick Mubiayi for his insightful and engaging presentation, underscoring the significance of such pioneering research in advancing technical and vocational education and training towards a sustainable future.

 Source: Directorate of Public Affairs

March 26, 2026