Achiever

How US-based Nigerian engineer is advancing research in nanotech, greenhouse gas capture

While Nigerian youths are daily bailing on their country in droves, ostensibly due to inclement economic weather, there is still a sizeable number doing the best they can to create their own niche in the global knowledge industry and, while at it, write their country’s name in gold.

In the world of cutting-edge scientific inquiry, one such young man is Osun State-born Victor Hammed, who is distinguishing himself in the field of nanotechnology and green chemistry, with a trajectory that encompasses rigorous academic training and groundbreaking research.

Currently, the production engineer at Ultium Cells LLC, an electric vehicle (EV) battery-producing company for General Motors based in Tennessee, United States of America, Hammed’s academic journey commenced in 2010 at the Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering, and graduated in 2015 on top of his class.

His commitment to environmental sustainability became evident during his final-year project when he harnessed eggshells and aluminium beverage cans to make an entirely new product, a testament to his foresight and concern for global challenges.

He said: “My research focuses on Nigeria’s impact on global environmental pollution, particularly the significant release of CO2 gas due to poor electricity, inadequate road safety control leading to cars with bad exhausts, and widespread use of fossil fuels in industrial plants.

“The detrimental effects include ocean acidification, adverse impacts on human health, and harm to animals. Imagine a world free from carbon in the atmosphere or equipped to instantly capture released carbon.”

Even at the early stage, Hammed displayed an innate curiosity and a passion for research that would not only propel him to greater heights but also protect climate health and human lives.

“Throughout my life, my overarching goal has been to contribute to humanity’s well-being. To achieve that, I knew I had to make meaningful impacts. This commitment led me to concentrate on reducing environmental pollution.

“Growing up in Nigeria, I witnessed a disregard for waste management, a major contributor to environmental hazards.

“Given my comprehensive study of material behaviour, I saw a valuable opportunity to engineer innovative products and transform what might be considered waste into valuable resources.”

This, he said, was his one passion and life’s goal — to keep working to discover new and better ways of absorbing greenhouse gases and, by so doing, create good health and well-being for all.

“I cannot achieve this alone. I need more people to have the same passion for climate health,” he told Saturday Tribune.

Undeterred by geographical boundaries, Hammed pursued his postgraduate studies at the North Carolina A&T States University (NCATSU), where he drove into the intricate world of nanotechnology.

Graduating at the zenith of his class again, his exceptional intellect and dedication did not go unnoticed. His Master’s research project, funded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), focused on a topic of paramount importance — CO2 absorption and zero-emission technologies.

At the heart of Hammed’s research was a pioneering exploration into the applications of imidazolium paramagnetic ionic liquids. These bespoke substances, synthesised through his meticulous efforts, exhibited remarkable properties as green solvents.

Utilising Evan’s methodology and employing diverse laboratory apparatuses, he skillfully manipulated the characteristics of these novel nanomaterials to enhance their absorption capabilities.

Expanding upon his research endeavours, he constructed a semi-automated apparatus in the laboratory, termed the isovolumetric (ISV) method. This method, an advancement of the isometric approach, utilizes the pressure-drop technique to calculate the molar mass of CO2 captured in an equilibrium cell containing ionic liquids.

Hammed’s ISV method measured pressure per second. He augmented his experimentation by integrating his proficiency in data analysis and machine learning tools, ensuring meticulous comparison and interpretation of his results.

Undeterred, he continued his investigation, incorporating the Thermogravimetric Analyzer (TGA). This instrument, employing the mass difference technique, gauged the absorbed CO2 in ionic liquids.

Within a mere two years of his Master’s programme, Hammed accomplished feats that elude many PhD students over a four-year span. His groundbreaking contributions have been disseminated through publications in esteemed academic journals and presentations at both national and international conferences.

His work with his colleagues in the laboratory not only expanded the scientific understanding of nanomaterials but also holds the promise of addressing critical environmental challenges.

His contribution to the field of nanotechnology, particularly in the context of climate change mitigation, has earned him accolades and recognition. His work aligns seamlessly with the global pursuit of sustainable solutions, and the implications of his research extend far beyond the confines of a laboratory.

But what was his motivation? He said: “While working on my undergraduate project, I observed the release of CO2 into the atmosphere during the casting of aluminium cans.

“Concerned about environmental pollution, I approached my supervisor to discuss my interest in studying CO2 capture. Balancing my passion for pollution reduction with the need to avoid worsening the ozone layer was crucial.

“My supervisor suggested studying nanotechnology, influencing my decision to pursue a Master’s in nanotechnology.

“Finding the right advisor at NCATSU was pivotal. The alignment of my passion with my research made the countless late nights in the lab truly worthwhile.”

What sets Hammed apart is not only his academic prowess but also his tenacity and the audacity to dream big.

He embodies the spirit of a new generation of researchers who are unafraid to tackle pressing global issues head-on. The nexus between his academic journey and the societal impact of his research is ample evidence of the power of education and innovation working in tandem.

Hammed is not merely a researcher. He is a harbinger of change in a world grappling with the consequences of climate change. His story exemplifies the potential that lies within the youths of Nigeria and the broader African continent — a potential waiting to be unlocked through education, research and a commitment to addressing the challenges of the time.

His story is an inspiration, a beacon that lights the path for aspiring scientists and researchers, and a proof of the transformative power of knowledge in the hands of those with a vision for a sustainable future.

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