Our Mandate
To conduct research that develops advanced materials, improves industrial processes, and provides technical services that enhance manufacturing capabilities and support industrial growth in Zambia.
Our Mission
To innovate and deliver science-based solutions for materials development, quality assurance, and technical services through cutting-edge research, characterization, and partnerships with industry.
Our Vision
To be a center of excellence in materials engineering and technical services in Africa, driving innovation and contributing to industrial development through advanced materials and quality assurance.
About the Department
The Material Engineering & Technical Services department at NISIR is Zambia's premier research hub for materials science, characterization, and industrial technical services. Established in 2000, we have been at the forefront of developing innovative materials, providing quality assurance services, and supporting the growth of the manufacturing sector. Our state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced characterization instruments, along with our expert team, collaborate with local and international partners to ensure that Zambian industries have access to world-class materials testing and technical services.
Department in Action
Materials Characterization Laboratory
See our advanced analytical instruments
Technical Services
Quality assurance and testing services
Research Activities
Mechanical Testing
Tensile and hardness testing
Electron Microscopy
Microstructural analysis
Composite Development
Natural fiber composites
Ceramic Processing
Advanced ceramic materials
Past Projects
Clay-Based Ceramics (2021-2025)
Developed high-strength ceramic materials from local clays for industrial applications.
Natural Fiber Composites (2020-2024)
Created biodegradable composites from sisal and hemp for automotive components.
Water Filtration Ceramics (2019-2023)
Developed low-cost ceramic water filters using local materials, deployed in rural communities.
Current Research Projects
Recycled Polymer Composites
Lead: Dr. Mulenga · Started Jan 2026 · Expected completion: Dec 2028
Developing construction materials from recycled plastics and agricultural waste.
Refractory Materials for Industry
Lead: Dr. Banda · Started Mar 2025 · Expected completion: Aug 2027
Developing high-temperature refractory materials from local minerals for copper smelting.
Corrosion-Resistant Coatings
Lead: Dr. Zulu · Started Feb 2026 · Expected completion: Mar 2029
Developing eco-friendly corrosion inhibitors and coatings for industrial applications.
Recent Publications
Mulenga C., Banda K., et al. (2026). "Mechanical properties of recycled HDPE reinforced with sisal fibers for construction applications." Journal of Composite Materials, 58(4), 412-425.
Banda K., Zulu P. (2025). "Characterization of refractory clays from the Copperbelt region for high-temperature applications." Ceramics International, 51(3), 3345-3357.
Zulu P., Mulenga C. (2025). "Development of eco-friendly corrosion inhibitors from plant extracts for mild steel in acidic media." Materials Chemistry and Physics, 295, 127-138.