Biography

As an applied analytical chemist whose research integrates thermal analysis, materials chemistry, and environmental monitoring to solve problems at the interface of pharmaceutics, water quality, and consumer product safety. His laboratory specializes in the characterization of complex chemical systems using a combination of thermal, spectroscopic, and materials-based methodologies.

1. Drug–Excipient Interactions and Solid-State Compatibility

A major research theme in our group focuses on understanding drug–excipient compatibility in pharmaceutical solids. Using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and TGA-FTIR evolved-gas analysis, we investigate thermal events, degradation pathways, and potential incompatibilities in formulations.

Current studies include:

• Thermal and spectroscopic evaluation of API–acidic excipient interactions (citric, tartaric, ascorbic, and fumaric acids).

• Predicting solid-state stability and mechanistic pathways of decomposition.

• Developing analytical workflows that combine DSC onset shifts, mass-loss steps, and FTIR volatile signatures for early-stage formulation screening.

This work supports the design of safer and more stable pharmaceutical products by generating clear compatibility profiles grounded in thermoanalytical evidence.

2. Metal Adsorption from Natural Waters

We also conduct extensive research on adsorption of heavy metals from real environmental waters, emphasizing field relevance over idealized laboratory matrices. His group evaluates adsorption performance using:

• Nanoparticles (e.g., ZnO, Fe₃O₄, functionalized silica),

• Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) such as UiO-66 and its derivatives,

• Biological sorbents, including microalgae and biosorbents derived from natural biomass.

Research directions include:

• Comparing adsorption behavior in lake, river, and stream water versus synthetic standards.

• Investigating the role of ionic strength, competing ions, pH, DOC, and colloids on real-water adsorption efficiency.

• Developing materials that maintain high uptake in complex environmental matrices.

• Coupling adsorption experiments with ICP-OES quantification for high-accuracy metal profiling.

This work contributes to practical water remediation strategies and reliability of adsorbents under environmentally realistic conditions.

3. Trace Metals and Thermal Properties of Premium Tobaccos

A complementary line of research in the lab focuses on chemical and thermal characterization of premium cigars and tobaccos. Using ICP-OES for trace metal quantification and DSC/TGA for thermal evaluation, the group examines:

• Concentrations of toxic and essential metals across tobacco varieties and curing practices.

• Thermal degradation profiles and evolution of volatile components.

• Relationships among soil composition, agricultural practices, and final tobacco chemistry.

• Comparisons between premium, machine-made, and flavored tobacco products.

These studies provide unique insights into the chemical exposure potential and quality attributes of luxury tobacco products, addressing both consumer safety and agricultural traceability.

Interdisciplinary Impact

Across all research areas, we seek to develop integrated analytical approaches that bridge pharmaceutical science, environmental chemistry, and consumer product analysis. His work emphasizes:

• Real-world sample matrices

• Combined thermal and spectroscopic techniques

• Materials-based solutions for contamination and stability challenges

The overarching goal is to advance analytical methodologies that provide clearer, more mechanistic understanding of complex chemical interactions in both engineered and natural systems.

 

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