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  • Dr Masoumeh Zagar

    Dr Masoumeh Zagar

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Dr Masoumeh Zargar

Senior Lecturer

Staff Member Details
Telephone: +61 8 6304 5719
Email: m.zargar@ecu.edu.au
Campus: Joondalup  
ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9811-6156

Dr Masoumeh Zargar leads the Advanced Materials and Membranes Research Group and the Water Stream of the ECU-Fraunhofer IKTS Joint Lab on Ceramic Membranes. Her research integrates advanced functional materials with membranes (polymeric, ceramic and composite) and hybrid separation technologies to address critical challenges in water and wastewater treatment, emerging contaminants and resource recovery. Her work focuses on PFAS degradation and removal, microplastics and nanoplastics mitigation, membrane fouling mechanisms and control, and treatment and resource recovery systems for saline, industrial and mining process streams.

Dr Zargar has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications in top-tier journals in advanced materials, membrane science and environmental engineering, with her research advancing practical solutions for water security, environmental protection and sustainable resource recovery. She was an Australian Research Council DECRA Fellow from 2022 to 2025 and held an ECU Vice-Chancellor Research Fellowship from 2020 to 2023. She has also secured competitive research funding through ARC Discovery schemes and several industry partnerships across water, mining and environmental sectors. Her contributions to research excellence, innovation and science communication have been recognised through multiple institutional, national and international awards and research initiatives, most recently the 2025 WA Young Tall Poppy Science Award and her leadership of The Water Bridge, a semifinalist team in the global XPRIZE Water Scarcity competition.

Research areas and interests

  • Advanced functional materials for water, environmental and industrial applications
  • Next-generation membranes for water and wastewater treatment and desalination
  • PFAS degradation and removal technologies
  • Microplastics and nanoplastics mitigation
  • Membrane fouling mechanisms and control
  • Hybrid oxidation-separation treatment systems
  • Resource recovery and circular treatment systems for saline, mining and industrial process streams
  • Circular water systems and sustainable treatment technologies
  • CO2 capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS)

Awards and recognition

  • WA Young Tall Poppy Science Award (2025)
  • ECU Vice-Chancellor Staff Excellence Award for Graduate Research Supervision (2025)
  • ECU Media Award: Highly Commended for Best in Broadcast (2023)
  • ECU Vice-Chancellor Staff Excellence Award for Research, Early Career Category (2023)
  • ECU Engineering Staff Research Excellence Award (2023)

Qualifications

  • Doctor of Philosophy, The University of Adelaide, 2016.
  • Master's Degree in Chemical Engineering, Iran, 2011.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering, Iran, 2007.

Research Outputs

2026

Journal Articles

  • Najafi Arani, M., Farahbakhsh, J., Golgoli, M., Johns, ML., Zargar, M. (2026). Harnessing mono-2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl succinate grafting for robust micro/nanoplastic-resistant ultrafiltration membranes. Journal of Water Process Engineering, 81(2026), article number 109236. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2025.109236.
  • Haeri, Z., Dashan, A., Farahbakhsh, J., Khiadani, M., Ramezanzadeh, B., Zargar, M. (2026). Enhancing solar energy harvesting: A comprehensive study on photothermal conversion in TiN/MXene-MOF hybrid nanofluids. Applied Materials Today, 48(2026), article number 103073. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apmt.2025.103073.
  • Amini Baghbadorani, M., Zargar, M., Shafieian Dastjerdi, A., Tolouei Rad, M. (2026). Dynamic mechanical insertion analysis of gelatin methacryloyl microneedles under realistic insertion conditions. Journal of The Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials, 177(May 2026), Article number 107357. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmbbm.2026.107357.
  • Najafidoust, A., Ghanbari, R., Farahbakhsh, J., Permala, RR., Iglauer, S., Zargar, M. (2026). Emerging trends in photocatalyst-based metal-organic frameworks for PFAS degradation. Coordination Chemistry Reviews, 549(2026), article number 217264. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ccr.2025.217264.

2025

Journal Articles

  • Amini Baghbadorani, M., Zargar, M., Eskandarinia, A., Tolouei Rad, M. (2025). From fabrication to function: Mechanical insights into GelMA microneedle arrays. Smart Materials in Manufacturing, 3(2025), Article number 100083. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smmf.2025.100083.
  • Weir, M., Robertson, T., Maroef, D., Johns, M., Zargar, M. (2025). Investigating the potential of remote ultraviolet sensing for real-time produced water monitoring: a lab-scale study. International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 22(14), 13453-13462. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13762-025-06516-z.
  • Haeri, Z., Dashan, A., Sadeghi, S., Golgoli, M., Khiadani, M., Ramezanzadeh, B., Zargar, M. (2025). Photo-thermal conversion properties of MXene/metal-organic-frameworks-based nanofluids for solar energy harvesting. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 683(2025), 150-165. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcis.2024.12.158.
  • Haeri, Z., Khiadani, M., Ramezanzadeh, B., Kariman, H., Zargar, M. (2025). Photo-thermal conversion properties of hybrid NH2-MIL-125/TiN/EG nanofluids for solar energy harvesting. Applied Thermal Engineering, 258(2025), article number 124607. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2024.124607.
  • Khan, AA., Nthunya, LN., Farooq, S., Khan, IA., Zargar, M., Mamba, BB., Suwaileh, WA. (2025). Review of fluoropolymer-based membranes for membrane distillation applications. Chemical Engineering Research and Design, 223(2025), 717-737. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cherd.2025.10.039.
  • Thathsarani, N., Najafi Arani, M., Khiadani, M., Azhar, MR., Zargar, M. (2025). Integrated Chitosan-based coagulation and microbubble pre-treatment for improved microplastic fibre removal from water. Science of the Total Environment, 1009(2025), article number 181039. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.181039.
  • Najafidoust, A., Farahbakhsh, J., Ghanbari, R., Najafi Arani, M., Keshavarz, A., Iglauer, S., Zargar, M. (2025). Design of tertiary Z-scheme CuO–ZnO@MXene photocatalyst with superior visible-light activity for decomposition of nanoplastics. Journal of Water Process Engineering, 80(2025), article number 109192. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2025.109192.
  • Golgoli, M., Najafi Arani, M., Farahbakhsh, J., Khiadani, M., Johns, ML., Zargar, M. (2025). Microplastics-resistant FO membranes: Zwitterionic MOF nanoparticles for superior fouling control. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, 13(2), article number 115668. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jece.2025.115668.
  • Ghanbari, R., Permala, RR., Iglauer, S., Zargar, M. (2025). Biopolymer-based membranes and their application in per- and polyfluorinated substances removal: Perspective review. Advances in Colloid and Interface Science, 346(2025), article number 103669. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cis.2025.103669.
  • Thathsarani, N., Khiadani, M., Azhar, MR., Zargar, M. (2025). Enhanced removal of microplastic fibres using aluminium and chitosan-based coagulants assisted with microbubble technology. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, 13(3), article number 116780. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jece.2025.116780.
  • Jafarzadeh, S., Golgoli, M., Qazanfarzadeh, Z., Forough, M., Wu, P., Timms, W., Barrow, CJ., Naebe, M., Zargar, M. (2025). Evaluating the influence of carbon quantum dots on starch-based bioplastics: Toward potential food packaging applications. Food Packaging and Shelf Life, 50(2025), article number 101555. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fpsl.2025.101555.
  • Sadeghi, S., Najafidoust, A., Haeri, SZ., Zargar, M. (2025). Defective MIL-88B(Fe) metal-organic frameworks: Peculiar photocatalysts for enhanced degradation of organic pollutants. Inorganic Chemistry Communications, 180(2025), article number 114956. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.inoche.2025.114956.
  • Kariman, H., Mohammed, HA., Zargar, M., Khiadani, M. (2025). Performance comparison of flat sheet and hollow fibre air gap membrane distillation: A mathematical and simulation modelling approach. Journal of Membrane Science, 721(2025), article number 123836. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.memsci.2025.123836.
  • Mkpuma, VO., Najafi Arani, M., Farahbakhsh, J., Zargar, M., Moheimani, NR., Ennaceri, H. (2025). Membrane fouling dynamics and flux optimization in the ultrafiltration of Chlorella sp. MUR 269 and Dunaliella salina CS 744/01. Journal of Water Process Engineering, 78(2025), article number 108808. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2025.108808.
  • Matamba, T., Sadeghi, S., Abid, H., Zargar, M., Keshavarz, A., Iglauer, S. (2025). The influence of surface textural properties and adsorption temperature on H2 adsorption and storage performance of MIL-88B(Fe) MOFs. Renewable Energy, 248(2025), article number 123185. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2025.123185.
  • Rada, ZH., Abid, H., Ahmed, MB., Zargar, M. (2025). Sub-bituminous coal as a peculiar adsorbent for dye removal from wastewater. International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 22(13), 12205-12220. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13762-025-06386-5.
  • Thathsarani, N., Najafi Arani, M., Khiadani, M., Azhar, MR., Zargar, M. (2025). Harnessing the power of amphoterically modified Chitosan coagulants for enhanced Polyester microplastic fibre removal from water. Journal of Environmental Management, 394(2025), article number 127273. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127273.

2024

Journal Articles

  • Farahbakhsh, J., Golgoli, M., Najafi Arani, M., Haeri, Z., Khiadani, M., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A., Zargar, M. (2024). An innovative NH2-UiO-66/NH2-MIL-125 MOF-on-MOF structure to improve the performance and antifouling properties of ultrafiltration membranes. Separation and Purification Technology, 353(2025), article number 128273. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2024.128273.
  • Farahbakhsh, J., Najafi Arani, M., Golgoli, M., Haeri, Z., Khiadani, M., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A., Zargar, M. (2024). Dual modification of reverse osmosis membranes with NH2-MIL-125 and functionalised multiwalled carbon nanotubes for enhanced nanoplastic removal. Chemosphere, 361(2024), article number 142401. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142401.
  • Mohamed Hijaz, H., Zargar, M., Shafieian Dastjerdi, A., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A., Khiadani, M. (2024). Beyond the surface: Understanding temperature polarisation in DCMD membranes through varied operational parameters. Separation and Purification Technology, 350(2024), article number 127978. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2024.127978.
  • Golgoli, M., Farahbakhsh, J., Najafi Arani, M., Khiadani, M., Johns, ML., Zargar, M. (2024). Resilient forward osmosis membranes against microplastics fouling enhanced by MWCNTs/UiO-66-NH2 hybrid nanoparticles. Chemosphere, 359(2024), article number 142180. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142180.
  • Farahbakhsh, J., Najafi Arani, M., Golgoli, M., Asif, A., Khiadani, M., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A., Zargar, M. (2024). Microplastics and dye removal from textile wastewater using MIL-53 (Fe) metal-organic framework-based ultrafiltration membranes. Chemosphere, 364(2024), article number 143170. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143170.
  • Bushnaq, H., Munro, C., Pu, S., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A., Zargar, M., Palmisano, G., Mettu, S., Dumée, LF. (2024). Phthalocyanine-enabled technologies for water treatment and disinfection strategies. Journal of Water Process Engineering, 65(2024), article number 105861. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2024.105861.
  • Mondal, MI., Sofiuzzaman, M., Ahmed, F., Hessel, V., Ahmed, MB., Zargar, M. (2024). Conductive Hydrogel As Stress-Strain Sensor For Human Motion Monitoring. Nano Select, 5(9), article number 2400057. https://doi.org/10.1002/nano.202400057.
  • Esmali, F., Najafi Arani, M., Betmoushoul, E., Zargar, M., Farhadi, K., Kouzegaran, VJ., Molaei, R., Mansourpanah, Y. (2024). Harnessing the power of hollow Zein nanoparticles for enhanced antifouling and heavy metal removal of polyethersulfone membranes. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, 12(5), article number 113381. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jece.2024.113381.
  • Farahbakhsh, J., Shakori, S., Najafi Arani, M., Delnavaz, M., Khiadani, M., Vatanpour, V., Mahdavi, MR., Zargar, M. (2024). Functionalised carbon nanotube thin film nanocomposite membranes: A comparison study on the role of backbone monomers and hydraulic pressure on membrane's performance and fouling. Process Safety and Environmental Protection, 190(2024), 1028-1039. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psep.2024.07.060.
  • Nitai, AS., Chowdhury, T., Inam, MN., Rahman, MS., Mondal, MI., Johir, M., Hessel, V., Fattah, IM., Kalam, MA., Suwaileh, WA., Zhou, JL., Zargar, M., Ahmed, MB. (2024). Carbon fiber and carbon fiber composites—creating defects for superior material properties. Advanced Composites and Hybrid Materials, 7(5), article number 169. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42114-024-00971-x.
  • Mondal, MI., Chandra Chakraborty, S., Rahman, MS., Marjuban, SM., Ahmed, F., Zhou, JL., Ahmed, MB., Zargar, M. (2024). Adsorbents from rice husk and shrimp shell for effective removal of heavy metals and reactive dyes in water. Environmental Pollution, 346(2024), article number 123637. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123637.
  • Kianrad, A., Najafi Arani, M., Hasani, K., Zargar, M., Erfani, E., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A. (2024). Investigating the impact of company announcements on stock prices: an application of machine learning on Australian lithium market. Mineral Economics, 37(1), 163-172. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13563-024-00428-z.
  • Haeri, SZ., Khiadani, M., Ramezanzadeh, B., Mohammed, H., Zargar, M. (2024). Review on Stability, Thermophysical Properties, and Solar Harvesting Applications of Titanium Nitride-Based Nanofluids: Current Status and Outlook. Energy and Fuels, 38(4), 2548−2572. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.energyfuels.3c03360.
  • Mohamed Hijaz, H., Zargar, M., Shafieian Dastjerdi, A., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A., Khiadani, M. (2024). Experimental investigation of varying design parameters on the production rate and temperature polarisation of a DCMD system. Journal of Membrane Science, 698(2024), article number 122603. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.memsci.2024.122603.
  • Farahbakhsh, J., Golgoli, M., Khiadani, M., Najafi Arani, M., Suwaileh, W., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A., Zargar, M. (2024). Recent advances in surface tailoring of thin film forward osmosis membranes: A review. Chemosphere, 346(2024), article number 140493. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140493.
  • Seyedpour, F., Farahbakhsh, J., Dabaghian, Z., Suwaileh, W., Zargar, M., Rahimpour, A., Sadrzadeh, M., Ulbricht, M., Mansourpanah, Y. (2024). Advances and challenges in tailoring antibacterial polyamide thin film composite membranes for water treatment and desalination: A critical review. Desalination, 581(2024), article number 117614. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.desal.2024.117614.
  • Farahbakhsh, J., Golgoli, M., Khiadani, M., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A., Zargar, M. (2024). Microplastics fouling mitigation in forward osmosis membranes by the molecular assembly of sulfobetaine zwitterion. Desalination, 575(2024), article number 117300. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.desal.2024.117300.
  • Farahbakhsh, J., Arshadi, F., Mofidi, Z., Mohseni-Dargah, M., Kök, C., Assefi, M., Soozanipour, A., Zargar, M., Asadnia, M., Boroumand, Y., Presser, V., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A. (2024). Direct lithium extraction: A new paradigm for lithium production and resource utilization. Desalination, 575(2024), article number 117249. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.desal.2023.117249.
  • Behnam, P., Shafieian Dastjerdi, A., Zargar, M., Khiadani, M. (2024). Performance enhancement of a solar-driven DCMD system using an air-cooled condenser and oil: Experimental and machine learning investigations. Desalination, 574(2024), article number 117255. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.desal.2023.117255.
  • Matamba, T., Abid, H., Zargar, M., Keshavarz, A., Iglauer, S. (2024). Application of NaOH modified micro-polyethylene as storage material for H2. Journal of Energy Storage, 87(2024), article number 111563. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.est.2024.111563.
  • Sadeghzadeh, S., Golgoli, M., Masjoudi, M., Ghobadi Nejad, Z., Zargar, M., Borghei, S. (2024). Removal of carbamazepine and diclofenac by laccase-based membrane bioreactor. International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 21(8), 6249-6260. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13762-023-05453-z.
  • Jafarzadeh, S., Nooshkam, M., Zargar, M., Garavand, F., Ghosh, S., Hadidi, M., Forough, M. (2024). Green Synthesis Of Nanomaterials For Smart Biopolymer Packaging: Challenges And Outlooks. Journal Of Nanostructure In Chemistry, 14(2), 113-136. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40097-023-00527-3.
  • Jafarzadeh, S., Golgoli, M., Azizi-Lalabadi, M., Farahbakhsh, J., Forough, M., Rabiee, N., Zargar, M. (2024). Enhanced carbohydrate-based plastic performance by incorporating cerium-based metal-organic framework for food packaging application. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 265(2024), article number 130899. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130899.
  • Lau, WN., Mohammadi Nafchi, A., Zargar, M., Rozalli, NH., Mat Easa, A. (2024). Development and evaluation of Bauhinia Kockiana extract-incorporated sago starch intelligent film strips for real-time freshness monitoring of coconut milk. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 260(2024), article number 129589. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129589.

2023

Book Chapters

Journal Articles

  • Jafarzadehkhosravi, S., Forough, M., Amjadi, S., Javan Kouzegaran, V., Almasi, H., Garavand, F., Zargar, M. (2023). Plant protein-based nanocomposite films: A review on the used nanomaterials, characteristics, and food packaging applications. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 63(29), 9667-9693. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2022.2070721.
  • Boshir Ahmed, M., Alom, J., Hasan, M., Asaduzzaman, M., Rahman, M., Hossen, R., Abu Hasan Johir, M., Taufiq Alam, M., Zhou, J., Zhu, Y., Zargar, M. (2023). General Doping Chemistry of Carbon Materials. ChemNanoMat: chemistry of nanomaterials for energy, biology and more, 9(4), article number e202200482. https://doi.org/10.1002/cnma.202200482.
  • Mohamed Hijaz, H., Zargar, M., Shafieian Dastjerdi, A., Razmjou, A., Khiadani, M. (2023). Experimental investigation of temperature polarisation by capturing the temperature profile development over DCMD membranes. Journal of Membrane Science, 687(2023), article number 122089. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.memsci.2023.122089.
  • Ghasemi, S., Yan, B., Zargar, M., Ling, NN., Fridjonsson, EO., Johns, ML. (2023). Impact Of Microplastics On Organic Fouling Of Hollow Fiber Membranes. Chemical Engineering Journal, 467(2023), article number 143320. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cej.2023.143320.
  • Raggam, S., Mohammad, M., Choo, Y., Naidu, G., Zargar, M., Shon, HK., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A. (2023). Advances In Metal Organic Framework (Mof)-Based Membranes And Adsorbents For Lithium-Ion Extraction. Separation and Purification Technology, 307(2023), article number 122628. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2022.122628.
  • Behnam, P., Zargar, M., Shafieian Dastjerdi, A., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A., Khiadani, M. (2023). Harnessing the power of neural networks for the investigation of solar-driven membrane distillation systems under the dynamic operation mode. Solar Energy, 261(2023), 63-82. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solener.2023.06.007.
  • Mousavi, SZ., Shadman, HR., Habibi, M., Didandeh, M., Nikzad, A., Golmohammadi, M., Maleki, R., Suwaileh, WA., Khataee, A., Zargar, M., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A. (2023). Elucidating The Sorption Mechanisms Of Environmental Pollutants Using Molecular Simulation. Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research, 62(8), 3373-3393. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.iecr.2c02333.
  • Alom, J., Hasan, MS., Asaduzaman, M., Alam, MT., Belhaj, D., Selvaraj, R., Hossain, MA., Zargar, M., Ahmed, M. (2023). Catalytical Performance Of Heteroatom Doped And Undoped Carbon-Based Materials. Catalysts, 13(5), article number 823. https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13050823.
  • Pourzare, K., Zargar, M., Farhadi, S., Sadrabadi, MM., Mansourpanah, Y. (2023). Aminosilica-Functionalized Co3O4 Nanostructures In Proton Exchange Mixed Matrix Membranes For Enhanced Separation Efficiency Of Direct Methanol Fuel Cells. ACS Applied Nano Materials, 6(1), 296-304. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsanm.2c04405.
  • Ghasemi, S., Assadpour, E., Kharazmi, MS., Jafarzadehkhosravi, S., Zargar, M., Jafari, SM. (2023). Encapsulation Of Orange Peel Oil In Biopolymeric Nanocomposites To Control Its Release Under Different Conditions. Foods, 12(4), article number 831. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12040831.
  • Golgoli, M., Sen, TK., Khiadani, M., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A., Johns, ML., Zargar, M. (2023). Synergistic Effects Of Microplastics And Organic Foulants On The Performance Of Forward Osmosis Membranes. Chemosphere, 311(2023), article number 136906. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136906.
  • Golmohammadi, M., Musavi, SF., Habibi, M., Maleki, R., Golgoli, M., Zargar, M., Dumee, LF., Baroutian, S., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A. (2023). Dynamics Of Three-Dimensional Stepped Cracks, Bistability, And Their Transition To Simple Cracks. Separation and Purification Technology, 309(2023), article number 122906. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2022.122906.
  • Jafarzadeh, S., Forough, M., Kouzegaran, VJ., Zargar, M., Garavand, F., Azizi-Lalabadi, M., Abdollahi, M., Jafari, SM. (2023). Improving The Functionality Of Biodegradable Food Packaging Materials Via Porous Nanomaterials. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 22(4), 2850-2886. https://doi.org/10.1111/1541-4337.13164.
  • Golgoli, M., Farahbakhsh, J., Asif, A., Khiadani, M., Razmjou Chaharmahali, A., Johns, ML., Zargar, M. (2023). Harnessing The Power Of Metal-Organic Frameworks To Develop Microplastic Fouling Resistant Forward Osmosis Membranes. Journal of Membrane Science, 682(2023), article number 121766. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.memsci.2023.121766.

2022

Book Chapters

  • Mertah, O., James, A., Zargar, M., Chauhan, S., Kherbeche, A., Chellam, P. (2022). Multifunctional Composite Aerogels—As Micropollutant Scavengers. Inorganic-Organic Composites for Water and Wastewater Treatment (229-266). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-5928-7_7.

Journal Articles

  • Behnam, P., Shafieian Dastjerdi, A., Zargar, M., Khiadani, M. (2022). Development of machine learning and stepwise mechanistic models for performance prediction of direct contact membrane distillation module- A comparative study. Chemical Engineering and Processing: process intensification, 173(March 2022), Article Number108857. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cep.2022.108857.
  • Garavand, F., Milad , R., Jafarzadehkhosravi, S., Diako , K., Ilaria , C., Zargar, M., Seyed Hadi , R. (2022). Tuning the physicochemical, structural, and antimicrobial attributes of whey-based poly L-lactic acid (PLLA) films by chitosan nanoparticles. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9(28 April 2022), article number 880520. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.880520.
  • Suwaileh, W., Zargar, M., Abdala, A., Siddiqui, F., Khiadani, M., Abdel-Wahab, A. (2022). Concentration polarization controlin stand-alone and hybrid forward osmosis systems: Recent technological advancements and future directions. Chemical Engineering Research and Design, 178(February 2022), 199-223. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cherd.2021.12.031.
  • Shafieian Dastjerdi, A., Khiadani, M., Zargar, M. (2022). Performance analysis of tubular membrane distillation modules: An experimental and CFD analysis. Chemical Engineering Research and Design, 183(July 2022), 478-493. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cherd.2022.05.033.
  • Haider, J., Haque, M., Hoque, M., Hossen, M., Mottakin, M., Khaleque, M., Johir, M., Zhou, J., Ahmed, MB., Zargar, M. (2022). Efficient extraction of silica from openly burned rice husk ash as adsorbent for dye removal. Journal of Cleaner Production, 380(2022), article number 135121. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2022.135121.
  • Rajapakse, SD., Zargar, M., Sen, T., Khiadani, M. (2022). Effects of influent physicochemical characteristics on air dissolution, bubble size and rise velocity in dissolved air flotation: A review. Separation and Purification Technology, 289(15 May 2022), article number 120772. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2022.120772.
  • Haydar, MA., Gedawy, A., Abid, H., Zargar, M., Brook, N., Dass, C., Sunderland, B. (2022). Loading of Artesunate with MIL100(Fe) Nanoparticles and Evaluation of Anti-cancer Activity in a Human Breast Cancer Cell Line. International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology (IJDDT), 12(1), 401-407. https://doi.org/10.25258/ijddt.12.1.72.
  • Chakraborty, S., Qamruzzaman, M., Zaman, M., Masruck Alam, M., Delowar Hossain, M., Pramanik, B., Nguyen, L., Naghiem, L., Ahmed, M., Zhou, J., Ibrahim.h.mondal, M., Hossain, M., Johir, M., Ahmed, M., Sithi, J., Zargar, M., Moni, MA. (2022). Metals in e-waste: Occurrence, fate, impacts and remediation technologies. Process Safety and Environmental Protection, 162(June 2022), 230-252. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psep.2022.04.011.
  • Drikvand, H., Golgoli, M., Zargar, M., Ulbricht, M., Nejati, S., Mansourpanah, Y. (2022). Thermo-Responsive Hydrophilic Support for Polyamide Thin-Film Composite Membranes with Competitive Nanofiltration Performance. Polymers, 14(16), Article number 3376. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14163376.

2021

Journal Articles

  • Zargar, M., Johns, M., Aljindan, J., Noui-Mehidi , M., O'Neil, K. (2021). Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Multiphase Flowmeters: Current Status and Future Prospects. SPE Production and Operations, 36(2), 423-436. https://doi.org/10.2118/205351-PA.
  • Golgoli, M., Khiadani, M., Shafieian Dastjerdi, A., Sen, T., Hartanto, Y., Johns, M., Zargar, M. (2021). Microplastics fouling and interaction with polymeric membranes: A review. Chemosphere, 283(November 2021), Article number 131185. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131185.
  • Khoshnam, M., Farahbakhsh, J., Zargar, M., Mohammad, A., Benamor, A., Ang, W., Mahmoudi, E. (2021). α-Fe2O3/graphene oxide powder and thin film nanocomposites as peculiar photocatalysts for dye removal from wastewater. Scientific Reports, 11(1), article number 20378. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-99849-x.
  • Farahbakhsh, J., Vatanpour, V., Khoshnam, M., Zargar, M. (2021). Recent advancements in the application of new monomers and membrane modification techniques for the fabrication of thin film composite membranes: a review  . Reactive and Functional Polymers, 166(September 2021), Article number 105015. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.reactfunctpolym.2021.105015.

2020

Journal Articles

  • Zargar, M., Ujihara, R., Vogt, S., Vrouwenvelder, J., Fridjonsson, E., Johns, M. (2020). Imaging of membrane concentration polarization by NaCl using 23Na nuclear magnetic resonance. Journal of Membrane Science, 600(15 April 2020), Article number 117868. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.memsci.2020.117868.
  • Wagner, L., Zargar, M., Kalli, C., Fridjonsson, EO., Ling, NN., May, EF., Zhen, J., Johns, ML. (2020). Solid-Phase Extraction Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (SPE-NMR): Prototype Design, Development, and Automation. Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research, 59(47), 20836-20844. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.iecr.0c04827.

2019

Journal Articles

  • Hartanto, Y., Zargar, M., Cui, X., Jin, B., Dai, S. (2019). Non-ionic copolymer microgels as high-performance draw materials for forward osmosis desalination. Journal of Membrane Science, 572(15 February 2019), 480-488. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.memsci.2018.11.042.
  • Zargar, M., Fridjonsson, EO., Graham, BF., May, EF., Johns, ML. (2019). Oil-based binding resins: Peculiar water-in-oil emulsion breakers. Energy and Fuels, 33(9), 8448–8455. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.energyfuels.9b01994.

2017

Journal Articles

  • Zargar, M., Hartanto, Y., Jin, B., Dai, S. (2017). Understanding functionalized silica nanoparticles incorporation in thin film composite membranes: Interactions and desalination performance. Journal of Membrane Science, 521(1 January 2017), 53-64. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.memsci.2016.08.069.
  • Zargar, M., Hartanto, Y., Jin, B., Dai, S. (2017). Polyethylenimine modified silica nanoparticles enhance interfacial interactions and desalination performance of thin film nanocomposite membranes. Journal of Membrane Science, 541(2017), 19-28. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.memsci.2017.06.085.

2016

Journal Articles

  • Zargar, M., Jin, B., Dai, S. (2016). An integrated statistic and systematic approach to study correlation of synthesis condition and desalination performance of thin film composite membranes. Desalination, 394(15 September 2016), 138-147. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.desal.2016.05.014.
  • Hartanto, Y., Zargar, M., Cui, X., Shen, Y., Jin, B., Dai, S. (2016). Thermoresponsive cationic copolymer microgels as high performance draw agents in forward osmosis desalination. Journal of Membrane Science, 518(15 November 2016), 273–281. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.memsci.2016.07.018.
  • Hartanto, Y., Zargar, M., Wang, H., Jin, B., Dai, S. (2016). Thermoresponsive Acidic Microgels as Functional Draw Agents for Forward Osmosis Desalination. Environmental Science and Technology, 50(8), 4221-4228. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.5b04123.
  • Zargar, M., Hartanto, Y., Dai, S. (2016). Hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles: A peculiar structure for thin film nanocomposite membranes. Journal of Membrane Science, 519(1 December 2016), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.memsci.2016.07.052.

2015

Book Chapters

  • Zargar, M., Jin, B., Dai, S. (2015). Development and application of reverse osmosis for separation. Membrane Processing for Dairy Ingredient Separation (139-175). John Wiley & Sons. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118590331.ch6.

2014

Journal Articles

  • Zargar, M., Sarrafzadeh, MH., Taheri, B., Keshavarz, A. (2014). Assessment of in situ bioremediation of oil contaminated soil and groundwater in a petroleum refinery: A laboratory soil column study. Petroleum Science and Technology, 32(13), 1553-1561. https://doi.org/10.1080/10916466.2012.690482.

2012

Journal Articles

  • Keshavarz, A., Vatanparast, H., Zargar, M., Mostafazadeh, M., Haghighi, M. (2012). An experimental investigation of optimum capillary number on vertical immiscible gas injection in Iranian carbonate and sandstone rocks. Petroleum Science and Technology, 30(13), 1379-1391. https://doi.org/10.1080/10916466.2010.506460.
  • Keshavarz, A., Vatanparast, H., Zargar, M., Kalantari Asl, A., Haghighi, M. (2012). An experimental investigation of the effect of pressure gradient on gas-oil relative permeability in Iranian carbonate rocks. Petroleum Science and Technology, 30(2012), 1508-1522. https://doi.org/10.1080/10916466.2010.506463.

Research Projects

  • Investigation of pulsatile CO₂ injection effects on its sequestration efficiency, Satbayev University, Grant, 2026 ‑ 2028, $48,915.
  • Optimizing Green Nanomaterials for chemical Enhanced Carbon Storage in Geological Reservoirs, Qatar Research, Development and Innovation, National Research Program, 2026 ‑ 2028, $76,505.
  • PFAS removal with advanced functional photocatalytic materials - Project 2, Water Corporation, Scholarship-Water Corp, 2023 ‑ 2028, $173,582.
  • Innovative composite photocatalysts and membranes for effective PFAS degradation and removal – Project 1, Water Corporation, Scholarship-Water Corp, 2023 ‑ 2028, $167,250.
  • Digital and special core analysis of CO2/brine/rock interactions: Implication for CO2 storage in Otway basin, CO2CRC Limited, Research Project Grant, 2024 ‑ 2027, $870,000.
  • Electrochemically-Assisted Fluidized Bed MBR, Water Corporation, Scholarship-Water Corp, 2023 ‑ 2027, $167,250.
  • Advanced Process Control at WRIP Project, Water Corporation, Scholarship-Water Corp, 2023 ‑ 2026, $178,650.
  • Peculiar membrane structures for removing microplastics from water, Australian Research Council, Grant - Discovery Early Career Researcher Award, 2022 ‑ 2026, $569,947.
  • Monitoring Desalination Membrane Fouling Using Sodium Magnetic Resonance, Australian Research Council, Grant - Discovery Projects, 2023 ‑ 2026, $30,000.
  • Innovative post-PFAS polishing solutions for COD/BOD and odour reduction, The Water & Carbon Group, Grant, 2025 ‑ 2026, $37,000.
  • Performance, fouling, and flux recovery assessment of flat-sheet RO membranes for high-alkalinity, high-TDS alumina refinery wastewater, Alcoa of Australia Ltd, Grant, 2025 ‑ 2026, $195,041.
  • Predictive modelling of hydrochar from food waste for the adsorption of H2S from biogas., Australia Africa Universities Network, Partnership & Research Development Fund, 2026, $10,000.
  • Hybrid Tailings Treatment with Integrated Mineral Carbonation for CO2 Sequestration, Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia, Rapid Response Projects, 2026, $50,000.
  • Development of conductive polymers for enhanced operational performance in underground mining, Confidential, Grant, 2025, $52,941.
  • CO2/rock/brine interaction analysis and the short-and long-term geochemical reactions and their effects on CO2-storage in subsurface geological formations., Inpex Operations Australia Pty Ltd, Grant, 2025, $300,000.
  • Comprehensive Analysis of Membrane Technologies for Lithium Extraction, Processing, and Applications, Rio Tinto Ltd, Grant, 2024 ‑ 2025, $45,796.
  • Advanced materials for enhanced short-chain PFAS removal in foam fractionation process, The Water & Carbon Group, Grant, 2024 ‑ 2025, $96,470.
  • Feasibility Study of Water Recovery from Salar Lithium Circuit Using Membrane Distillation, Rio Tinto Ltd, Grant, 2023 ‑ 2024, $94,117.
  • INT-1294 Enhanced PFAS removal, The Water & Carbon Group, APR Intern, 2024, $13,000.

Research Student Supervision

Current Supervisions

Principal Supervisor

  • Doctor of Philosophy, Innovative photocatalytic membranes for effective per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances degradation and removal
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Membrane surface engineering to enhance microplastic and nanoplastic antifouling performance in water treatment
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Enhancing PFAS degradation through photocatalysis with advanced functional nanomaterials and nanocomposits
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Advanced functional membranes for CO₂ capture and CO₂/CH₄ separation: Accelerating technologies for carbon management.
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Developing novel photocatalytic materials and membranes to remove microplastics (MPs), PFAS, and other emerging contaminants from water

Co-principal Supervisor

  • Doctor of Philosophy, Development of Novel Polymer Inclusion Membranes for Lithium Separation

Associate Supervisor

  • Doctor of Philosophy, The Impact of Flow Alteration Aids on the Thermal Performance of Vacuum Membrane Desalination Modules (VMDM)
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Data-driven techniques in WWTP’s management, optimisation, and process control
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Finite Element Analysis and 3D Printing of GelMA Microneedle Arrays

Completed Supervisions

Principal Supervisor

  • Doctor of Philosophy, Synergistic Removal of Microplastic Fibres: Integrating Chitosan Coagulation in Hybrid Water Pre-Treatment Systems
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Solar Thermal Systems: The Role of hybrid Nanofluids in Sustainable Energy Harvesting and Storage
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Advanced functional metal organic frameworks-reinforced membranes for enhanced microplastic fouling mitigation
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Advanced functional materials and modified membranes targeting synergistic fouling mitigation

Associate Supervisor

  • Master of Engineering Science, An experimental study on the effect of viscosity on micro-bubble size distribution and rise velocity in a bubble column
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Harnessing the power of machine learning methods for the investigation of direct contact membrane distillation systems
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Integrated Design and Operational Considerations Impacting Temperature Polarisation and Performance in Direct Contact Membrane Distillation

Assistant Supervisor

  • Doctor of Philosophy, Conversion of wastewater, municipal solid waste, and algae to electricity, treated water, and valuable products
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