This book presents peer reviewed articles from the 2nd International Conference on Futuristic Materials for Sustainable Development Goals held from 6–9 April at Vanderbijlpark in South Africa. It highlights innovative research and advancements in materials science that contributes to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The conference focuses on cutting-edge materials with applications in clean energy, environmental sustainability, and resource efficiency. Topics include advanced nanomaterials, biodegradable polymers, energy storage materials, and green manufacturing technologies. Researchers and experts from diverse fields present studies on sustainable practices in various industries such as healthcare, environment, energy, and transportation. The proceedings emphasize the role of futuristic materials in addressing global challenges such as climate change, renewable energy, and waste management, aligning scientific innovation with sustainability objectives.
Dr. Mokae Bambo, holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from University of Johannesburg, RSA, is a Senior Lecturer at Vaal University of Technology with 20 years of industry experience. He is SACNASP-registered scientist, a SACI and WISA member, with expertise in microscopy and microanalysis. His research focuses on mixed matrix and nanostructured materials for environmental remediation, membranes for water and resource recovery, and the circular economy.
Prof. Joe Modise, Head of Natural Sciences Department at Vaal University of Technology, RSA, leads research on Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), which incorporates traditional medicine, food, and clothing. His team validates plant-based remedies for ailments like Tuberculosis (TB), cancerous ailments, and inflammatory diseases. He also researches water quality treatment using phytoremediation, membrane technology, and biosorption techniques.
Dr. Mbuso Mlambo is a senior lecturer in the department of Natural Sciences at the Vaal University of Technology, South Africa. He obtained his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of the Witwatersrand. His research interest is centred on the design and development of spectroscopic and colorimetric based sensors for the detection of waterborne and foodborne diseases.
Prof. Agnes Pholosi is an associate professor in the Natural Sciences department at the Vaal University of Technology, South Africa. Her research focus is on the material synthesis for the remediation of the emerging pollutants from wastewater using adsorption and photodegradation techniques. She has authored and co-authored several articles in peer reviewed journals, book chapters, and conference proceedings.
Dr. Teboho Mokhena is a Principal Research Scientist at Mintek, holding a PhD in Polymer Science from the University of the Free State (2017). His research emphasizes transforming waste materials into value-added products, including biosensors, medical devices, and custom 3D-printed devices. Dr. Mokhena has authored over 100 research outputs, in the form of articles and book chapters. He has recently published both an authored book and an edited volume.
Prof. Langalihle Dlamini earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Johannesburg and is currently an associate professor. His research focuses on novel photocatalysts toward the degradation of recalcitrant emerging pollutants in water. Prof. Dlamini’s photocatalytic nanomaterials research group (PNRG) has published over 40 papers and trained over 20 postgraduate students in advanced materials. He was elected as an African Academy of Science (AAS) affiliate for his continued contribution to providing clean and safe water using advanced nanotechnologies capable of removing and fragmenting emerging pollutants in water systems.
Dr. Kgomotso Mtshatsheni, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Natural Sciences at the Vaal University of Technology, South Africa, conducts research in nanomaterials and photocatalysis. Her work focuses on the synthesis and application of carbon nanomaterials-doped titania/ZnO composites for the degradation of micropollutants in water. Her research has applications in environmental remediation, contributing to the development of sustainable solutions for water.
