Biography
Dr. Tawheed Hashem received his BSc (2004) in biophysics from Al-Azhar University and MSc (2008) in biomaterial science and tissue engineering from National Research Center (NRC), and Al-Azhar University, Egypt. He obtained his PhD degree from the University of Heidelberg in Physical Chemistry in 2014. After finishing a 3-year postdoctoral fellowship (2015-2017) at the Institute of functional interfaces (IFG) at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) with Prof. Wöll, he became a group leader at the same institute in 2017. From 2021 until now, Dr. Tawheed became the vice director of KIT innovation HUB. In 2017, he was a visiting professor at Tomsk Polytechnic University, Russia. His main research interest is on the designed synthesis of new metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) surface-mounted metal-organic frameworks (SURMOFs) toward energy and environmental applications. Due to his exceptional research outcomes, Dr. Tawheed became a scientific advisor to several companies in the Middle East. His future work is directed to the commercialization of MOFs and SURMOFs.
Learn more about Dr. Hashem's contributions in the IFG and KIT Innovation HUB.
News
New research article on SURMOF materials is out!
Karlsruhe, Germany | 15.12.2024
Check out the new study co-authored by Dr. Tawheed Hashem, in which the authors explore how the outer surfaces of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs)—beyond their well-known porous interiors—can be functionalized to create superhydrophobic materials with extraordinary properties.
By grafting hydrocarbon chains onto precisely engineered MOF thin films (SURMOFs), the authors achieved static water contact angles exceeding 160°. These surfaces rival polymer brushes in behavior, as shown by detailed theoretical modeling and infrared spectroscopy. The coiled hydrocarbon chains reduce surface free energy, giving rise to superhydrophobicity, while nanometer-scale surface roughness further minimizes water adhesion strength.
This work paves the way for innovative applications of MOFs in fields where controlling surface wetting is crucial, from anti-fouling coatings to advanced filtration technologies.
Check out the full details in the paper and feel free to reach out with questions or ideas for collaboration!
Attending the Egyptian-European Investment Conference
Cairo, Egypt | 29.06.2024
Dr. Tawheed Hashem was invited to attend the Egyptian-European Investment Conference in Cairo, Egypt. During the conference, he had the honor of meeting with several key figures, including:
- Dr. Mohamed Shaker, Egyptian Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy
- Dr. Yasmine Fouad, Egyptian Minister of Environment
- Mrs. Natascha Boussiga and Mr. Moritz Cleff, CEO and Co-CEO of the German-Arab Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK - Egypt)
- Mr. Lionel Rapaille, Director of Lending Operations at the European Investment Bank
These meetings provided an invaluable opportunity to discuss future European-Egyptian relations, potential projects and collaborations in Egypt. The discussions were highly promising, indicating a bright future for the Egyptian market. The Egyptian-European coalition is set to bolster trade and cultural exchange, fostering a prosperous environment for growth and cooperation.
New research article on the electronic nose is out!
Karlsruhe, Germany | 26.05.2024
Spearheaded by Dr. Tawheed Hashem and Dr. Salih Okur, research team from KIT has successfully developed a novel approach for detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using tailored SURMOF sensors, so called “Electronic Nose”. These sensors leverage metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) technology with slight variations, allowing for precise tuning of the sensors' interaction with VOCs, and leading to enhanced detection efficacy and specificity.
Check out the new paper to learn more about the technology.
Introducing E-Energize, LLC: Revolutionizing Energy Storage with Z-Battery Technology!
Wyoming, USA | 15.05.2024
We are thrilled to announce the launch of E-Energize, LLC, a cutting-edge startup dedicated to advancing sustainable energy solutions. Co-founded by Dr. Tawheed Hashem, the company’s mission is to transform the way we store and utilize power by harnessing the incredible potential of Z-Battery technology.
Z-Batteries represent a paradigm shift in energy storage. Unlike conventional batteries, which rely on chemical reactions, Z-Battery technology utilizes zero-emission materials. This breakthrough innovation not only reduces our carbon footprint but also enhances efficiency and reliability.
The new Z-Battery technology offers various advantages:
Eco-Friendly: Our batteries emit no harmful substances during operation, making them a responsible choice for the environment.
High Performance: E-Energize Z-Batteries boast impressive energy density, ensuring optimal power storage in a compact form.
Longevity: Say goodbye to frequent replacements! Z-Batteries technology extends battery lifespan, minimizing waste.
Swift Charging: Get back on the move faster with rapid recharging capabilities.
Safety First: Z-Batteries prioritizes safety, providing peace of mind for users.
Applications of Z-Batteries include, but not limited to:
Renewable Energy: Store surplus energy from solar panels or wind turbines efficiently.
Electric Vehicles (EVs): Drive farther and charge quicker with E-Energize Z-Batteries.
Grid-Level Solutions: Enhance grid stability and manage peak demand.
Visit E-Energize website to learn more and stay tuned for updates.
Modular electrode configuration of Z-Battery
Participation in TECH 4 TRANSITION Program
Karlsruhe, Germany | 20.11.2023
Dr. Tawheed Hashem has participated in the program: Delegation Visit of the AAST Entrepreneurship Center from Egypt, in which he presented the KIT Innovation Hub's international cooperation. Tech4Transition is a modular offer of the KIT Gründerschmiede, offering innovation spaces where target groups can exchange, network and present their technology-based ideas.
Find out more about the Tech 4 Transition here.
Nomination for NEO2023 Innovation Award
Karlsruhe, Germany | 20.10.2023
The "electronic nose" innovation of Dr. Hashem, Dr. Okur, and Prof. Wöll has been selected among the top 5 nominated innovations for the NEO2023 Innovation Award of the Karlsruhe Technology Region. The award ceremony will take place on Thursday, 30. November 2023 in Karlsruhe, Germany.
Find the program and more info about the event in the link here (in German).
Visiting the German Jordanian University (GJU)
Amman, Jordan | 15.09.2023
During a visit to the German Jordanian University (GJU), Dr. Hashem and Prof. Dr. Gerdes representing the KIT Innovation Hub discussed ways of cooperation with the aim of establishing an innovation center for technology transfer, where all Jordanian universities and research centers can cooperate.
Participation in the 1st Environmental and Climate Investment Forum
Cairo, Egypt | 12.09.2023
Participation of Dr. Tawheed Hashem in the inaugural Environmental and Climate Investment Forum, which was hosted by the Egyptian government. During the event, Dr. Hashem together with Prof. Dr. Gerdes represented the KIT Innovation Hub by signing a Letter of Intent (LoI) as a technology partner to the Egyptian Ministry of Environment. This partnership aims to promote the utilization of innovation for the enhancement of sustainable waste management practices in Egypt.
Learn more about the event in this TV reportage here (in Arabic).
Participation in the 4th ADU-ASU Research Forum 2023
Abu Dhabi University, UAE | 15.5.2023
Participation of Dr. Tawheed Hashed in the 4th ADU-ASU Research Forum 2023 hosted by Abu Dhabi University’s (ADU) College of Engineering (CoE) under the theme of "Concrete in Hot Weather: Building for Tomorrow, Innovations in Sustainable Design and 3D Printing for Smart Construction". Dr. Hashem's talk was entitled: Varied Impacts of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) on Microstructure, Flexural Strength, and Compressive Strength of Gypsum Composites.
Read more about the event here.
BBC: An electronic nose may protect us from spoiled food
BBC for Tech | 21.3.2023
An interview with Dr. Tawheed Hashed by BBC Arabic, in which he introduces the electronic nose device developed in his group together with Dr. Salih Okur. What is this device and what is its role in determining the quality of the food we eat such as meat and milk?
Watch the video for the answers, or follow the link here (in Arabic) and the English dubbing here.
Biotechnology: Enzymes in a Cage
KIT | 2.3.2022
Check out the press release about Dr. Hashem's latest co-authored publication on the incorporation of enzymes into metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), which owns high impact on the field of biocatalysis and green chemical industry.
Smelling sensor for the mobile phone: KIT in Karlsruhe develops electronic "nose"
SWR | 1.2.2022
Check out the media coverage on Dr. Hashem's latest invention of the electronic nose, codeveloped with Dr. Salih Okur at IFG, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT).
