The Bangladesh University of Textiles (BUTEX) has announced the launch of its new Department of Textile Materials Engineering, set to commence in the 2024-2025 academic year. This initiative aims to propel research and innovation in textile materials through the use of advanced technology and modern laboratory facilities.
The new department will accommodate 40 undergraduate students and boasts state-of-the-art machinery valued at approximately Taka 25 crore. Among its advanced research equipment are an Electron Microscope for analyzing micro and nanoscale structures, an X-ray Diffractometer for assessing material compositions, a Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer for elasticity analysis, and a Thermogravimetric Analyzer for evaluating thermal stability.
In addition to these, the department will feature high-tech instruments such as an Atomic Force Microscope, Spectrophotometer, 3-D Printer, Differential Scanning Calorimeter, and a Rapid Prototyping Machine. These cutting-edge facilities will enable students to engage in research across various fields, including nanotechnology, polymer science, composite materials, and biomaterials.
Beyond academic research, the department will also provide testing and development services tailored to meet industrial needs. Dr. Sheikh Md. Mamun Kabir, Professor and Acting Head of the Department, emphasized the department’s mission, stating, “Our primary objective is to explore the structure, properties, and applications of textile materials. We aim to develop industry and the economy by advancing technology and discovering environmentally friendly solutions.”
The department is not only focused on undergraduate education but will also offer opportunities for postgraduate (Masters) and PhD research. Dr. Kabir noted that graduates from this program will have strong prospects for securing scholarships for higher studies in prestigious universities across the United States, Canada, Europe, and Japan.
Addressing the challenges ahead, Professor Dr. Hosne Ara Begum, Dean of the Faculty of Textile Engineering, acknowledged the research-intensive nature of the field, stating, “This is a research-intensive field that requires patience to achieve practical outcomes. While undergraduate students may not see immediate results, significant contributions can be made at the Masters and PhD levels.”
She further explained that the department’s curriculum is designed for students who are innovative and passionate about research, making it ideal for those interested in solving practical problems within the industrial sector.
The establishment of the Textile Materials Engineering department marks a significant milestone for BUTEX, setting the stage for groundbreaking research, academic excellence, and advancements in Bangladesh’s textile industry.
