MUSCAT: The study, featured in the 50th issue of ‘Scientific Insights’, focuses on the role of chemical mixtures in enhancing locally manufactured products and aligns with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 by supporting innovation and industrial development.
Conducted as a joint research collaboration between the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Suhar and the University of Manchester, the study investigates how chemical substances dissolve when mixed with water and interact with other materials, contributing to the development of a research-driven industrial ecosystem in Oman.
According to the research team, the work is particularly relevant to industries such as food manufacturing, which plays a key role in food security and economic development. The study aims to provide scientific data to improve the quality and competitiveness of locally produced goods in line with national development goals.
Dr. Mitha Rabia Al Jabri, Head of the Research and Consultation Department at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences – Suhar and lead researcher, said the study explores how substances dissolve in water and how additives such as oils affect the process, which is fundamental to products including detergents, medicines, food, and paints.
She explained that the research used advanced computer simulations to model molecular interactions, allowing scientists to observe changes that are difficult to detect through traditional experiments.
Findings showed that different mixtures can significantly affect product behaviour, with some improving efficiency through faster dissolution, while others alter molecular structure and slow the process. The study also found that short-chain oily substances have minimal impact, whereas longer-chain oils significantly influence molecular behaviour.
The research was published in the Scopus-indexed Q1 journal ACS Physical Chemistry Au under the title “The Effect of Mixtures and Additives on Dissolving Surfactant Lamellar Phases.”
Researchers said the findings could be applied across pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and food industries, enabling manufacturers to test formulations virtually before production, thereby reducing costs and improving efficiency.
The study was conducted by Dr. Mitha Rabia Al Jabri from the University of Technology and Applied Sciences – Suhar in collaboration with Prof. Thomas Rodgers from the University of Manchester, United Kingdom.