Research Highlight: Noureddine Abidi
Research Focus
Dr. Abidi's research has focused on diverse range of topics related to polymers and
materials science. He holds a PhD. in Theoretical, Physical, and Analytical Chemistry.
Abidi's research activities are now focused on the structure and functionalization
of biopolymers with special emphasis on cotton and the transformation of biopolymers
to bioproducts. Using an integrated approach based on physical and analytical chemistry
(FTIR microspectroscopy, TGA, HPLC, etc...), Dr. Abidi investigates the cellulose
structure and deposition during cotton fiber development. He also researches ways
to improve the functionality of cotton fibers and textiles, by altering their surface
properties (using plasma, molecular vapor deposition, and sol-gel process).
Importance of Graduate Students
For Dr. Abidi, graduate students are the pillar of the research activities. Dr. Abidi
believes that when students are seriously involved in various research projects, they
can develop their professional career, while learning research methodologies, critical
thinking, and problem-solving using their technical and analytical skills.
Research Future
Dr Abidi will continue his research efforts to further the understanding of plant-based
biopolymers with special emphasis on cotton. Because cotton is the purest form of
cellulose found in nature, it can serve as useful models for other plant-based biopolymers.
As our nation moves toward a bio-based economy, a greater understanding of the properties
and functionality of plant-based biopolymers will be critical.
Additional Links
- Fiber and Biopolymer Research Institute
- Noureddine Abidi - Leidigh Professor - Plant & Soil Science (PSS); Managing Director - Fiber & Biopolymer Research Institute (FBRI)
Department of Plant and Soil Science
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Address
Texas Tech University, Department of Plant and Soil Science, Box 42122, Lubbock, TX 79409 -
Phone
806.742.2838 -
Email
psstechsupport@ttu.edu