Carlos Fuentes Rojas

Dr. Carlos Fuentes Rojas is a leading researcher in bio-inspired complex materials at Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST), specialising in hierarchical interfaces, smart composites, and sustainable technologies. Drawing inspiration from nature’s intricate designs, he develops high-performance bio-based materials with tailored interfacial properties. Carlos began his academic journey in Peru, where he studied Heavy Equipment Technology at TECSUP and Mechanical Engineering at the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP). His early research on natural fibre composites led him to design custom equipment for producing low-cost housing panels. He also developed a patented chitosan-based interface treatment, marking his first significant contribution to green material technologies. Determined to expand his expertise, he pursued doctoral studies at KU Leuven, having been awarded both the prestigious Fulbright (USA) and SBA KU Leuven (Belgium) scholarships. His PhD research introduced pioneering methods for studying and controlling interfacial adhesion in fibrous composites, including innovations in wetting analysis, mechanical characterisation, and adhesion strength estimation—contributions that remain influential in the field. As a senior researcher at KU Leuven, he further advanced interfacial science by developing novel techniques for measuring contact angles, studying liquid interactions with complex fibre architectures, and assessing interfacial shear strength in composite materials. His multidisciplinary approach—integrating micro-CT, strain mapping, and biochemical analysis—provided groundbreaking insights into the mechanical behaviour of natural fibres. Since joining the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) in 2021, Carlos has been at the forefront of bio-inspired material development, securing over €9 million in funding as Principal Investigator for major European projects such as BioCel3D, BioInter, and BafCom, as well as pioneering sustainable composite materials for the automotive sector. His research bridges nature’s design principles with cutting-edge engineering, unlocking new possibilities in composite materials. He has published 37 peer-reviewed articles, presented at over 60 international conferences (including keynote and invited talks), and supervises a team of PhD students, postdocs, and engineers. His strong commitment to ecologically responsible scientific and technological development has earned him multiple research awards, including the prestigious Belgian Development Cooperation Prize, all related to the use of recycled or natural materials. His five patents further demonstrate his dedication to green innovation and sustainable material solutions.