Mr. Mukelani Cele

Mukelani Cele is a materials chemist whose research centers on nanostructured materials for environmental and energy applications. Scholarly work spans carbon nanotubes, doped metal oxides, and hybrid nanocomposites, with a strong emphasis on tailoring surface, structural, and electronic properties to enhance catalytic and photoelectrochemical performance. Contributions also reflect engagement with the broader development of nanoscience in South Africa.

A major research focus involves photoelectrocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants in water. Recent studies on Bi2WO6-based heterojunctions, iron-doped systems, and carbon-supported photoanodes demonstrate expertise in electrode design, charge separation engineering, and solar-driven wastewater treatment. These works highlight stability, reusability, and mechanistic insight, advancing sustainable approaches for removing pharmaceuticals and dyes from contaminated water.

Earlier publications explore nitrogen-doped and functionalized carbon nanotubes, microwave-assisted nanoparticle synthesis, and carbon-supported metal catalysts for selective hydrogenation. Through advanced materials characterization and electrochemical analysis, this body of work establishes strengths in nanomaterial synthesis, structure–property relationships, and catalytic process optimization across environmental remediation and energy-related technologies.