Dr. Fatima Ezzahra BELHARCHA, Ibn Tofail University, Morocco
Fatima Ezzahra Belharcha, born on October 21, 1989, in Marrakech, Morocco, is a distinguished researcher in physical chemistry with a specialization in corrosion inhibition and environmental chemistry. She holds a State Doctorate from Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco, achieved in 2023, following her Master’s degree in Functional Materials and her Bachelor’s in Physical Chemistry of Materials from Caddy Ayyad University. Fatima has actively contributed to preserving cultural heritage through corrosion resistance research, focusing on archaeological conservation. As a patent-holder and a skilled advisor in intellectual property, she offers valuable expertise to SB ENERGIE and serves as an administrator at the Ibn Tofail University’s Center for Analysis and Technology Transfer. Fatima’s commitment to academia and environmental preservation is evident in her ongoing research and teaching efforts, particularly in materials science and conservation.
Professional Profile
scopus
Summary of Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award
Dr. Fatima Ezzahra Belharcha demonstrates remarkable depth in research and innovation within the fields of physical chemistry and materials science, specifically focusing on corrosion protection for historical artifacts and the conservation of iron-wood composites. Her expertise is evidenced through multiple patents aimed at advanced formulations for corrosion inhibition, highlighting her innovative contributions to this niche area in materials preservation. Additionally, Dr. Belharcha has co-authored published research on electrochemical behavior and corrosion resistance, providing insights that blend practical conservation needs with scientific rigor. Her patents, including those for anticorrosion and antifungal compositions, underscore her commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage, while her hands-on roles in academic and professional capacities demonstrate her strong project management and technical expertise.
Education
Fatima Ezzahra Belharcha’s academic journey is marked by her extensive studies in physical chemistry and materials science. She earned her State Doctorate Diploma in 2023 from Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, with a focus on Physical Chemistry and Environment. Prior to this, she completed a Technical Master in Functional Materials in 2014 and a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Chemistry of Materials in 2012 from Caddy Ayyad University, Marrakech. Her foundational education began with a Deust in Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, and Chemistry in 2011, and she graduated with a Baccalaureate in Experimental Science in 2008. Fatima’s academic background is underpinned by a dedication to understanding environmental conservation through materials science, preparing her for a career centered on impactful research and technological innovation in material corrosion protection.
Experience
Fatima has been an administrator at the Center for Analysis and Technology Transfer at Ibn Tofail University since 2016, where she manages various academic responsibilities, including roles as a Patent Filing Focal Point and as the DRX and FTIR specialist. Her efforts extend to project management, entrepreneurship incubation, and technological expertise transfer. Since 2018, she has contributed as a member of the National Network of Expert-Valuators and has offered her intellectual property and R&D advisory expertise to SB ENERGIE. Recently, she has served as an advisor and researcher with the Centre Technique de Plasturgie et de Caoutchouc. With her cross-functional roles, Fatima brings extensive experience in overseeing critical analysis projects, incubating innovative solutions, and driving intellectual property development in corrosion protection for historical preservation.
Awards and Honors
Fatima Ezzahra Belharcha has earned notable recognition in physical chemistry and materials science, with several patents registered in corrosion inhibition formulations. Her most significant patents include unique anticorrosion and antifungal compositions tailored for the preservation of metal-wood archaeological artifacts. These patents showcase her innovation in developing eco-friendly corrosion inhibitors using polyethylene glycol. She has also presented her research internationally, such as at the Virtual Conference on Chemistry and its Applications in 2020 and at a conference in 2022, focusing on corrosion resistance in archaeological conservation. Her pioneering contributions are recognized nationally, where she has played a vital role in intellectual property advisement and materials conservation, bridging academia and industry.
Research Focus
Fatima’s research is centered on corrosion inhibition and materials conservation, particularly for archaeological and historical artifacts. Her work investigates electrochemical behaviors and corrosion-resistant treatments for metal-wood composites, utilizing polyethylene glycol-based formulations that offer antifungal and visual quality-indicator properties. These formulations play a crucial role in preserving artifacts from corrosion in neutral media. In collaboration with the Centre Technique de Plasturgie et de Caoutchouc and SB ENERGIE, she is also exploring biofongicides and corrosion inhibitors for industrial applications. Fatima’s research aims to advance sustainable conservation techniques, providing essential solutions for heritage preservation while reducing environmental impact.
Publication Top Notes
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Title: “Long-term electrochemical and biological study of archaeological iron-wood composite impregnated with 10% PEG-200 solution”
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Title: “Electrochemical Behavior and Corrosion Resistance of Steel in Waterlogged Archaeological Wood Impregnation Solutions: Effect of Operating Parameters and Corrosion Products”