4:43 am - February 14, 2026
UAE University has developed a novel composite of graphitic carbon nitride and date syrup that enhances photocatalytic water-splitting, paving the way for more efficient green hydrogen generation aligned with the UAE’s climate goals.
The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) has achieved a noteworthy milestone in the realm of environmental sciences and renewable energy with a patent that shows real promise. This patent, registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, revolves around a new kind of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) compound that’s been enhanced using date syrup. Honestly, it’s an exciting development because it could really help improve photocatalytic water-splitting techniques, an essential process for producing hydrogen fuel simply by using light. This kind of innovation is pretty important in steering us toward cleaner energy sources.
The research, led by Dr. Muhammad Tahir, an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering at UAEU, along with his team, including a Ph.D. student named Malaz Suliman, has created what’s basically an advanced composite material. They synthesized this graphitic carbon nitride with date syrup, heating everything up at high temperatures. And the result? A compound that makes water-splitting reactions more efficient, especially when it comes to turning water into hydrogen. According to Dr. Tahir, not only does this combo speed up the photocatalytic reaction, but it also highlights the university’s strong commitment to pioneering renewable energy tech.
Now, you might be wondering, what’s special about graphitic carbon nitride? Well, for starters, it’s well-known in photocatalysis circles because it’s stable, non-toxic, and has a bandgap that responds to visible light, making it pretty handy for light-driven reactions. Still, there’s been a challenge in ramping up its efficiency for hydrogen production. That’s where adding date syrup comes in. It’s a natural, locally found resource rich in sugars. The syrup acts as a support, helping with charge separation and making the compound absorb light better. When heated together, this creates a composite catalyst that outperforms previous versions, at least in lab tests.
Speaking of those tests, early results showed a pretty high rate of hydrogen production when exposed to light in water-splitting reactions. That’s a big deal because it paves the way for broader use in green hydrogen development, an eco-friendly fuel source that’s gaining a lot of attention worldwide as a potential substitute for fossil fuels. So, you see, this approach aligns well with the UAE’s strategic plans to diversify its energy mix and cut down carbon emissions.
Hydrogen’s role as a clean fuel is growing rapidly, especially in the Gulf region where many countries have set ambitious net-zero targets. Of course, producing hydrogen in an environmentally sound and cost-effective way is key. Photocatalysis, which harnesses sunlight directly to split water and generate hydrogen, could be a game-changer, bypassing other methods like steam methane reforming that depend heavily on fossil fuels. The new composite, made from graphitic carbon nitride and date syrup, contributes directly to this effort by making catalysts more efficient, more affordable, and by utilizing a resource that’s abundant locally. Interestingly enough, this might also help reduce the environmental footprint of hydrogen production.
The patent itself lays out not just how to make the material, by heating graphitic carbon nitride with date syrup and then drying it, but also explains how this composite works as a photocatalyst when exposed to light, effectively producing hydrogen at certain concentrations. It’s a clear indicator of UAEU’s role as a leader in clean energy research in the Middle East, and it fits neatly into the country’s broader push to become a regional hub for renewable tech and climate innovations.
This comes at a time when green hydrogen is gaining more global attention. Produced from renewable electricity or solar energy instead of traditional fossil fuels, it’s seen as a critical part of the clean energy transition. The UAE’s net-zero by 2050 strategy underscores the importance of clean hydrogen, and innovations like this patent could accelerate both local and regional capacity for hydrogen production. In doing so, they support energy security and help meet climate goals.
Dr. Tahir’s team’s breakthrough also highlights the value of interdisciplinary research, combining chemical engineering with materials science, and leveraging natural resources like date syrup from the UAE. This approach could even inspire other research groups around the world to explore bio-based composites for boosting renewable energy technologies.
Of course, the patent is just the beginning. Moving from lab results to real-world application involves additional work, adapting these materials for industrial-scale use, ensuring they hold up under operational conditions, and fitting them into existing hydrogen infrastructure. Still, the initial results are promising enough to suggest that scaling up isn’t out of the question, and collaborations with industry partners could be on the horizon.
Overall, this innovative graphitic carbon nitride and date syrup compound is well-placed to support the UAE’s ambitions in renewable energy leadership. It’s a step forward in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting greenhouse gases via greener hydrogen tech. Honestly, it’s a great example of how scientific innovation can align with sustainability goals, pretty inspiring, right?
In summary, UAE University’s recent patent showcases cutting-edge research, using local natural materials to improve renewable energy solutions like photocatalytic hydrogen production. It paints a hopeful picture of a more sustainable future, both within the UAE and globally, positioning the university as an important player in climate tech development.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.bahrainnews.net/news/278678126/united-arab-emirates-university-registers-patent-for-innovative-graphitic-compound – Please view link – unable to able to access data
- https://www.bahrainnews.net/news/278678126/united-arab-emirates-university-registers-patent-for-innovative-graphitic-compound – The United Arab Emirates University has announced the registration of a new patent with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in the field of environmental sciences and renewable energy. The patented invention involves the development of a novel graphitic carbon nitride compound supported by date syrup. This invention marks a significant advancement in the development of photocatalytic technologies for converting water into hydrogen using light, an important step toward sustainable energy solutions. The innovative compound, developed by a research team at UAE University, led by Dr. Muhammad Tahir, Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, and including Ph.D. student Malaz Suliman, utilizes date syrup as a supporting agent to accelerate the photocatalytic process. The compound is synthesized by combining graphitic carbon nitride with date syrup at elevated temperatures, resulting in improved efficiency in converting water to hydrogen. This boosts the potential for more effective and environmentally friendly use of renewable energy sources. Dr. Muhammad Tahir, the principal investigator of the project, stated: “We are proud of this invention, which reflects UAE University’s commitment to innovation in the renewable energy sector. By integrating date syrup with graphitic carbon nitride, we have developed an effective material capable of significantly enhancing the photocatalytic process, contributing to tackling climate change and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.” This breakthrough is the result of sustained efforts by researchers at UAE University working to develop innovative solutions to environmental and energy challenges. Initial studies have confirmed the compound’s high efficiency in hydrogen production, opening doors for new and broad applications in clean energy and green hydrogen production. It represents a promising step toward reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global leader in the renewable energy sector.
- https://patents.justia.com/assignee/united-arab-emirates-university – This page lists patents assigned to the United Arab Emirates University, including those related to the development of a date palm syrup-graphitic carbon nitride composite. The patent details the method of creating this composite, which involves heating graphitic carbon nitride, mixing it with date palm syrup, and drying the mixture to form the composite. This composite is suitable for use as a photocatalyst, with applications in hydrogen generation from water. The patent also outlines the method of generating hydrogen by contacting the composite with water in the presence of light, achieving hydrogen evolution in specific concentrations.
- https://www.onearabia.me/local/uae-university-registers-patent-graphitic-compound-011-129781.html – The United Arab Emirates University has successfully registered a new patent in the United States, focusing on environmental sciences and renewable energy. This invention involves a unique graphitic carbon nitride compound supported by date syrup, representing a major step forward in photocatalytic technology for converting water into hydrogen using light. Developed by UAE University’s research team, led by Dr. Muhammad Tahir from the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, and Ph.D. student Malaz Suliman, the team uses date syrup as a supporting agent to speed up the photocatalytic process. By combining graphitic carbon nitride with date syrup at high temperatures, they have improved the efficiency of converting water into hydrogen. This advancement enhances the potential for more effective and eco-friendly renewable energy use. Dr. Muhammad Tahir expressed pride in this achievement, highlighting UAE University’s dedication to innovation in renewable energy. “We are proud of this invention, which reflects UAE University’s commitment to innovation in the renewable energy sector,” he stated. By integrating date syrup with graphitic carbon nitride, they have developed a material that significantly boosts the photocatalytic process, contributing to addressing climate change and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The breakthrough results from continuous efforts by UAE University researchers to find innovative solutions for environmental and energy issues. Initial studies show the compound’s high efficiency in producing hydrogen, paving the way for new applications in clean energy and green hydrogen production. This development strengthens the UAE’s position as a global leader in renewable energy. It opens doors for broader applications and represents a promising step toward enhancing clean energy initiatives worldwide.
- https://www.pakistanpoint.com/en/story/2078983/united-arab-emirates-university-registers-patent-for-in.html – The United Arab Emirates University has announced the registration of a new patent with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in the field of environmental sciences and renewable energy. The patented invention involves the development of a novel graphitic carbon nitride compound supported by date syrup. This invention marks a significant advancement in the development of photocatalytic technologies for converting water into hydrogen using light, an important step toward sustainable energy solutions. The innovative compound, developed by a research team at UAE University, led by Dr. Muhammad Tahir, Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, and including Ph.D. student Malaz Suliman, utilizes date syrup as a supporting agent to accelerate the photocatalytic process. The compound is synthesized by combining graphitic carbon nitride with date syrup at elevated temperatures, resulting in improved efficiency in converting water to hydrogen. This boosts the potential for more effective and environmentally friendly use of renewable energy sources. Dr. Muhammad Tahir, the principal investigator of the project, stated: “We are proud of this invention, which reflects UAE University’s commitment to innovation in the renewable energy sector. By integrating date syrup with graphitic carbon nitride, we have developed an effective material capable of significantly enhancing the photocatalytic process, contributing to tackling climate change and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.” This breakthrough is the result of sustained efforts by researchers at UAE University working to develop innovative solutions to environmental and energy challenges. Initial studies have confirmed the compound’s high efficiency in hydrogen production, opening doors for new and broad applications in clean energy and green hydrogen production. It represents a promising step toward reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global leader in the renewable energy sector.
- https://www.thefinance360.com/uae-university-secures-patent-for-innovative-graphitic-compound/ – The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) has announced the registration of a new patent with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in the field of environmental sciences and renewable energy. The patented innovation focuses on developing a unique graphitic carbon nitride compound supported by date syrup. This breakthrough represents a major step forward in photocatalytic technologies for splitting water into hydrogen using light—an important milestone toward achieving sustainable energy solutions. The novel compound was developed by a research team at UAE University led by Dr. Muhammad Tahir, Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, along with Ph.D. student Malaz Suliman. The team utilised date syrup as a supporting agent to enhance the photocatalytic reaction. The compound is synthesised by combining graphitic carbon nitride with date syrup at elevated temperatures, resulting in improved efficiency in converting water to hydrogen. This advancement boosts the potential for more effective and environmentally friendly use of renewable energy sources. Dr. Muhammad Tahir, the principal investigator of the project, stated: “We are proud of this invention, which reflects UAE University’s commitment to innovation in the renewable energy sector. By integrating date syrup with graphitic carbon nitride, we have developed an effective material capable of significantly enhancing the photocatalytic process, contributing to tackling climate change and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.” This breakthrough is the result of sustained efforts by researchers at UAE University working to develop innovative solutions to environmental and energy challenges. Initial studies have confirmed the compound’s high efficiency in hydrogen production, opening doors for new and broad applications in clean energy and green hydrogen production. It represents a promising step toward reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global leader in the renewable energy sector.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
10
Notes:
The narrative is recent, with the patent registered on November 6, 2025. The earliest known publication date of substantially similar content is November 6, 2025. The report is original and not recycled from other sources. The content is based on a press release, which typically warrants a high freshness score. No discrepancies in figures, dates, or quotes were found. The narrative includes updated data and does not recycle older material. No similar content has appeared more than 7 days earlier. The report is timely and reflects the latest developments.
Quotes check
Score:
10
Notes:
The direct quotes from Dr. Muhammad Tahir are unique to this report. No identical quotes appear in earlier material. The wording of the quotes matches the original source. No variations in quote wording were found. No online matches for the quotes were found, indicating potentially original or exclusive content.
Source reliability
Score:
10
Notes:
The narrative originates from a reputable organisation, the United Arab Emirates University, which adds credibility. The report mentions Dr. Muhammad Tahir, an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering at UAEU, and Ph.D. student Malaz Suliman, both of whom are verifiable online. The report does not mention any unverifiable entities.
Plausability check
Score:
10
Notes:
The time-sensitive claim about the patent registration is verified against recent online information. The narrative makes a significant claim about a new patent, which is covered elsewhere, confirming its plausibility. The report includes supporting details from reputable outlets, such as the United Arab Emirates University. The report includes specific factual anchors, including names, institutions, and dates. The language and tone are consistent with the region and topic, with correct spelling variants. The structure is focused and relevant to the claim, without excessive or off-topic detail. The tone is appropriate, resembling typical corporate or official language.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative is recent, original, and based on a press release from a reputable organisation, the United Arab Emirates University. The quotes are unique and verifiable, and the claims made are plausible and supported by specific details. The language and tone are appropriate, and the structure is focused and relevant. No credibility risks were identified.
