We develop robust homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts through molecular design, active site engineering, and deep insight into structure–activity relationships. This includes tailored zeolite synthesis for hydrocarbon conversion, MTO, and waste valorization. Using spectroscopy, kinetics, and multiscale modeling—including DFT simulations—we elucidate reaction mechanisms and guide rational catalyst development for improved reactivity, selectivity, and durability.

Our team designs catalysts to convert CO₂, CO, CH₄, and methanol into valuable chemicals and fuels, promoting carbon circularity. We focus on selective hydrogenation, dry reforming, and coupling reactions that support low-carbon energy systems and contribute to global decarbonization strategies.

We target efficient conversion of fossil feedstocks—including whole crude and methanol—into high-value chemicals such as olefins and aromatics. A central focus is the design and optimization of zeolite-based catalysts for MTO and hydrocarbon upgrading processes. By tailoring acidity, porosity, and shape-selectivity, we engineer catalytic systems that deliver high performance, product selectivity, and process efficiency, supporting more sustainable chemical manufacturing.

We develop catalytic processes for the targeted transformation of multifunctional molecules and the upgrading of bio-derived, heavy, or waste-based feedstocks. Our work includes advanced catalytic routes for plastic waste valorization, enabling the chemical recycling of polyolefins and mixed plastics into fuels, monomers, or specialty chemicals.

We engineer materials and systems for light- and electricity-driven reactions, such as CO₂ reduction, water splitting, and nitrogen fixation. A particular focus is placed on ammonia as a hydrogen carrier, including both its synthesis and catalytic or photocatalytic cracking for clean hydrogen release, enabling a circular, carbon-free hydrogen economy.

Our automated high-throughput (HT) platforms and AI models accelerate catalyst discovery. We combine robotic experimentation with machine learning to explore wide chemical spaces, enabling rapid optimization and data-driven decision-making across multiple catalytic systems.

We specialize in the design and operation of advanced reactor systems—flow, batch, and fluidized bed—tailored for catalyst testing, scale-up, and process intensification. Our engineering capabilities bridge lab-scale research and industrial application, ensuring real-world viability.

We use in situ and in operando techniques—IR, Raman, XPS, XAS—to study catalysts under working conditions. These tools allow us to monitor structural and chemical changes in real-time, driving improvements in performance and longevity.

Ammonia is a promising hydrogen carrier in global decarbonization strategies. We are advancing catalytic and photocatalytic processes to crack ammonia efficiently, enabling on-demand hydrogen release for mobility, power generation, and chemical synthesis applications.

Our platform supports scalable, sustainable catalysis for clean energy and chemicals. Key focus areas—including ammonia synthesis, CO₂ valorization, plastic recycling, and crude-to-chemicals—align with KAUST’s strategy, RDIA innovation pillars, and Saudi Vision 2030. Through strong industry collaboration and technology translation, we accelerate solutions with real-world impact, bridging fundamental research with scalable industrial applications.