Isabelle Balatbat

• Conduct pyrolysis of date palm leaf biomass to synthesize carbon for advanced material applications
• Chemically-activate carbon samples via potassium hydroxide doping to increase surface area and porosity for use in high‑performance battery electrodes
• Research and perform new carbon doping methods to enhance material properties for wider applications
• Conduct chemical analyses (Iodine number, pH, ash content, density test) to produce datasheet supporting commercialization of lab-produced carbon products
• Create lithium-sulfur and zinc battery electrodes with varied compositions and evaluate performance capacity on battery test chambers
• Develop nesquehonite (NQ) boards and perform mechanical performance tests (compressive strength, flexural strength, nail pull resistance) to assess structural integrity for plasterboard applications
• Characterize raw, thermally-activated, and mechanically-tested NQ powders using advanced techniques (XRF, XRD, SEM, BET, TAM Air calorimetry)
• Co-author a conference paper on the impact of thermal activation temperatures on NQ powder performance and its implications for plasterboard applications

• Prepare chemical solutions, assemble apparatus, run trial experiments and modify with compliance to UK educational advisory CLEAPSS
• Repair and maintain apparatus, follow proper storage and disposal of chemicals referring to safety data sheets
• Lab and Classroom Safety: Conduct routine safety checks in coordination with facilities team to ensure compliance with Ministry of Education
• Stock Management and Procurement: Update chemical and inventory records, source and procure materials locally, allocate resources according to annual science department budget
• Document and schedule experiments across science department staff with use of centralized learning management system (LabLogger)
• Student and Staff Support: Provide technical advice to science staff, demonstrate experiments, supervise students, and enforce lab safety rules

• Conducted chemical analyses (titration, pH test, photometric analysis) on anodizing tanks to ensure smooth, quality, corrosion-resistant, and weather-resistant aluminum products
• Developed technical report on full extrusion process (extrusion, aging, anodizing, powder coating, PVDF-coating, packaging) to translate complex processes into clear product documentation
• B2B Video Marketing: Produced promotional video featuring an on-site visit from Spanish manufacturer GAVIOTA to increase QALEX brand awareness and attract prospective clients

• Collaborated with UDST Engineering Faculty on sustainability-focused R&D project sponsored by Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF) to develop a green, non-toxic flame-retardant alternative
• Developed prototypes using manufacturing machines (mixer, milling machine, compression molder)
• Product Testing: Evaluated prototype chemical structure under FTIR and analyzed structural integrity through UL-94 flammability test

• Presented creative engineering‑based solutions to HSE team on improving industrial workplace safety