Bahrum Prang Rocky, Ph.D.

Analytical Scientist III, BASF Corporation

Materials Scientist | Microstructure-Driven Materials Design | Sustainable Composites | Clean-Energy Alloys | Advanced Microscopy & Materials Analytics

Charlotte, NC , USA | [email protected] | [email protected]

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bahrum-prang-rocky | Google Scholar: Bahrum Prang Rocky

Materials Scientist with 14+ years of combined academic, industrial, and R&D experience specializing in microstructure-driven materials design, sustainable composites, hydrogen-resilient alloys, and advanced analytical characterization. Proven record leading high-throughput investigations (5,000+ annually), developing standardized analytical workflows, and translating complex structure–property insights into engineering decisions for R&D, manufacturing, and product innovation. Experienced in securing multi-million-dollar funding, mentoring students, collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams, and delivering impactful research aligned with clean energy, sustainability, and advanced manufacturing priorities. I bring a strong record of publications, funding contributions, teaching, mentorship, and cross-sector collaboration across academia, national labs, and industry.

RESEARCH SUMMARY

Analytical Materials Scientist specializing in microstructure-driven materials design, sustainable bio-fiber composites, hydrogen-resilient alloys, and advanced multi-modal characterization. My work integrates microscopy, spectroscopy, mechanical/thermal analysis, and data-driven analytics to solve complex industrial problems and advance sustainable materials for clean energy and circular manufacturing. I lead high-throughput analytical workflows, develop nano-engineered natural fiber thermoplastics, and design hybrid fiber/metal composites using cold-spray technologies. My research program spans fundamental mechanisms to applied innovation, supported by NSF, DOE, DoD, NASA, USDA, and industry relevance.

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY SNAPSHOT

I teach materials science through real-world problems, hands-on exploration, and inclusive mentorship. Drawing on my experience as an Analytical Scientist and researcher, I bring authentic case studies—coating delamination, fiber–matrix failures, hydrogen-embrittled steels, and microstructural defects—into the classroom to help students connect theory to practice. My courses emphasize active learning, data-driven reasoning, and visualization using SEM/EDS images, XRD patterns, thermal curves, and mechanical testing results. I support diverse learning styles by explaining concepts from structural, chemical, and mechanical perspectives and designing flexible assignments that allow students to pursue their interests. I prepare students for industry, research, and graduate study by integrating DOE, failure analysis, technical reporting, and professional communication into my teaching. My goal is to help students become confident, analytical, and ethically minded engineers who can use materials science to solve real-world challenges.

RESEARCH PROGRAM OVERVIEW

• Nano‑Engineered Natural Fiber Thermoplastics (Bamboo, Kudzu, Natural Fiber Reinforcement)
• Hydrogen‑Resilient & Nanoparticle‑Reinforced Clean Energy Alloys
• Structure–Property Relationships in Polymers, Coatings, Adhesives, Textiles, and Composites
• Bio-Based Fiber/Polymer and Fiber/Metal Composites
• Sustainable Materials, Circular Manufacturing, and Eco-Friendly Processing
• Fiber‑Based Innovation & Application Expansion
• Industrial Problem Solving, Failure Analysis, and Analytical Method Development

Duration / Year	Degree
2017/01 ─ 2019/12	Ph.D. in Materials Science & Metallurgical Engineering   University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
2015/08 ─ 2016/12	M.S. in Textile Engineering / Human Environmental Sciences University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
2005/07 ─ 2011/07	B.S. in Textile Technology & Chemical Engineering   Bangladesh University of Textiles, Dhaka, Bangladesh
2001/01 ─ 2005/05	Vocational Technology (V.Tech.) in Building Construction & Maintenance Bangladesh Technical Education Board, Dhaka, Bangladesh

ACADEMIC & PROFESSIONAL APPOINTMENTS

Analytical Scientist III

BASF Corporation, Charlotte, NC | 2023–Present

Industry Focus: Adhesives, Coatings, Construction, Paper, Printing, Packaging, Nonwovens, Asphalt, and Fiber Bonding.

• Analytical Lead for 5,000+ Annual Investigations: Lead high-volume analytical, deformulation, formulation support, and customer escalations using advanced microscopy, spectroscopy, mechanical and thermal analyses SEM, STEM, TEM, LM/OM, FTIR, Raman, UV‑Vis, AFM, XRD, XPS, DSC, DMA, TGA, and rheology to drive R&D, optimize production, and resolve customer technical escalations.
• Microscopy & Surface Analysis Subject Matter Expert (SME): Execute advanced imaging, cross-sectional imaging of paper and microfilm, and elemental mapping to diagnose complex failures including delamination, contamination, impurities, degradation mechanisms, pigment dispersion, blister/grit formation, adhesion failures and compatibility issues in multilayer structures.
• Root Cause Analysis (RCA) & FMEA Leadership: Spearhead critical investigations on product failures, customer complaints and plant issues for latexes, coatings, adhesives, paper and packaging, translating raw data into actionable engineering recommendations.
• Process Optimization: Develop and optimize standardized test methods and workflows (method templates, test protocols, report standards), significantly improving laboratory turnaround time (TAT), reproducibility, and clarity of recommendations.
• Multi-Modal Collaboration: Partner with GPC, HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, and NMR specialists for comprehensive investigations and case studies to guide product reformulations, process changes, and competitive benchmarking.
• Compliance & Mentorship: Author and maintain site-wide SOPs and safety protocols (OSHA/EPA/FDA) while providing technical training to scientists and engineers on advanced instrumentation and data interpretation.

Research Scientist II

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL | 2022–2023

• Secured $5M in research funding and managed five multi‑disciplinary projects, ensuring milestone completion and delivery of all technical reports.
• Designed and executed DOE‑driven experiments and developed natural bamboo (NBF) and kudzu fibers, fiber composites and metal alloys using chemical, thermomechanical, metallurgical, and nano‑engineering methods.
• Performed comprehensive materials characterization,mechanical testing (incl. tensile, shear, hardness, fatigue, indentation, fracture, and surface tension), solving technical problems and providing cross‑functional training.
• Utilized SEM, STEM, TEM, EBSD, XRD, EDS, FTIR, Raman, XPS, DSC, nanomaterials processing tools, and computational/engineering software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, MATLAB, Python).

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL | 2020–2022

• Led research on metals, alloys, and textile‑based nanomaterials; delivered 36 milestones, 3 annual reports US Dept. of Energy (DOE), 3 grant proposals (NSF, DoD, NASA), and multiple (7) conference presentations.
• Collaborated with 4 industrial partners to optimize production processes and develop specialized machinery.

Graduate Research Assistant

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL | 2015–2019

• Contributed to 6 major research programs in fibers, textiles, and materials science, 19 technical writings, 5 conference proceedings and 11 scientific publications.
• Performed mechanical, antibacterial, colorimetric, and structural testing on 300+ fabric and apparel materials.
• Developed natural bamboo fibers (NBF) and kudzu fibers for commercial applications; performed full mechanical, chemical, and structural characterization.

Lecturer, Textile Engineering

Green University of Bangladesh & Daffodil International University | 2013–2015

• Taught 19 courses and supervised 1,000+ students in physics, textiles, and material sciences.
• Developed curricula aligned with industry needs and implemented ERP‑based course evaluation.

Executive Quality Assurance Engineer

Aboni Textiles Ltd. (Babylon Group), Dhaka, Bangladesh | 2010–2012

• Developed and optimized recipe formulation for textiles & apparel dyeing and finishing processes, solved quality issues, and enhanced customer satisfaction and throughput.
• Streamlined workflows and increased production efficiency across multiple textile dyeing lines.

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

Sustainable Fibers & Bio-Based Composites

• Developed natural bamboo fibers (NBF) using mild chemical, enzymatic, thermodynamic and mechanical routes.
• Produced kudzu fibers as a sustainable alternative for textiles and composites.
• Characterized fibers using SEM/EDS, XRD, FTIR, tensile testing, antibacterial assays, and crystallinity analysis.
• Proposed composite applications for automotive, packaging, and construction sectors.

Hydrogen-Tolerant & Nanoparticle-Reinforced Alloys

• Investigated ZrC-reinforced 304L steels for hydrogen embrittlement resistance.
• Conducted fractography, microstructural analysis, and mechanical testing under hydrogen exposure.
• Contributed to DOE-funded research on clean-energy infrastructure materials.

Analytical Method Development

• Published on SEM charging effects in insulating fibers.
• Developed microscopy workflows for multilayer coatings, adhesives, and polymer films.
• Published scientific articles on different mechanical properties of textiles materials, chemical properties of fibers and polymers.  
• Created standardized SEM/EDS templates and reporting systems.

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

Lecturer, Textile Engineering

• Courses taught: Textile Science, Polymer Physics, Fiber Science, Yarn Manufacturing, Fabric Manufacturing, Dyeing & Finishing, Textile Testing, CAD in Textiles, Apparel Manufacturing, Color Science.
• Integrated digital teaching tools, lab-based learning, and industry-aligned assignments.

Graduate Teaching Assistant

• Taught Physics I and II labs; mentored undergraduate researchers from engineering, textiles, and chemistry.

Mentorship

• Supervised undergraduate and graduate students in materials characterization, microscopy, and fiber research.

SELECTED GRANTS & FUNDING CONTRIBUTIONS

• Contributed to >$5M in funded research across DOE, NSF, USDA, and industry
• Led technical execution, reporting, and milestone delivery for multi-PI projects
• Developed proposals for hydrogen-resilient alloys, sustainable fibers, and analytical method development
• Research grants on Carbide Dispersed Hydrogen Tolerant 304L Stainless Steel from US DOE, UA & CSU
• Research grants on Natural Bamboo Fibers Production and Modification from NSF, UA and multiple industries.
• Grants and funding on REU, Kudzu fibers and Bioprocessing of textiles from different government and industrial partners.

PUBLICATIONS (Selected)

Full list available on Google Scholar “Bahrum Prang Rocky” and included in “List of Scientific Publications“ section.

• Hydrogen embrittlement and mechanical response of 304L steel with ZrC additions.
• Analyses of chemical compositions and structures of bamboo species (FTIR, Raman, XPS, XRD).
• Crystallographic properties of bamboo plants, natural fibers, and viscose fibers (XRD).
• SEM/EDS analyses of natural bamboo fibers (Part 3).
• Production and modification of natural bamboo fibers from four species.
• Kudzu fiber extraction and performance properties.
• Charging effects in SEM imaging of carbon and natural fibers.
• Vague language in bamboo viscose marketing (sustainability communication).

AWARDS & HONORS

• Paper of Distinction Award — ITAA
• Research & Teaching Awards — ITAA
• Outstanding Graduate Student Award — University of Alabama
• Graduate Council Writing Fellowship
• Lean Six Sigma White Belt

KEY INSTRUMENTATION AND TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

Materials & Application Engineering: Expert in polymers, coatings, adhesives, construction chemicals, nonwovens, textiles, and nanomaterials; specialized antibacterial testing and nanomaterials characterization for high-performance applications; structure–property relationships and composite materials; DOE, formulation and deformulation.

Analytical Microscopy & Spectroscopy: Advanced imaging (SEM, TEM, STEM, EBSD, LM, OM, AFM, AES, micro-IR, Sputter Coating, Laser/Plasma Coating, Cryo-Microtoming, Ru/Os-staining) and comprehensive spectroscopic & thermal characterization (EDS, XPS, XRD, FTIR, Raman, DSC, TGA, DMA, Rheology, UV-vis, Particle Size Analyzers).

Failure Analysis & Quality Assurance: Root Cause Analysis (RCA), FMEA, deformulation, and method development; lead cross-functional collaboration with GPC, GC-MS, LC-MS, py-GC, NMR;specialized in resolving complex customer escalations and competitive benchmarking.

Scientific Leadership & Strategy: Cross-functional leadership across R&D, Production, and QA; expert in Stakeholder Presentations &Technical Storytelling, DOE, technical training and SOP/JSA/TDS development.

Digital & Computational Proficiency: Advanced data analytics and automation using MATLAB, OriginPro, SPSS, and Minitab; proficient in Python, Java, HTML, and SQL; Enterprise-Level Microsoft 365 & Power Platform; and CAD (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Adobe Suite) for technical modeling and reporting. 

SERVICE & OUTREACH

• Peer reviewer for multiple journals in materials science and textiles.
• Mentor for multiple undergraduate research programs.
• Outreach in sustainable materials education and STEM engagement.

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

• Materials Research Society (MRS)
• American Chemical Society (ACS)
• American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC)
• International Textile and Apparel Association (ITAA)
• American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

List of Scientific Publications

1. Stubbers, A., Rocky, B. P., Gilleland, C., Shrestha, R., San Marchi, C., Wilkerson, R. P., … & Weinberger, C. R. (2026). Hydrogen embrittlement and mechanical response of 304L steel with ZrC additions. Materials Science and Engineering: A, 149824. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msea.2026.149824
2. Wimberley, V. S., & Rocky, B. P. (2022). Investigation of the Extraction Processes and Performance Properties of Kudzu Fibers. Journal of Natural Fibers, 19(4), 1449–1460. https://doi.org/10.1080/15440478.2020.1776664
3. Rocky, B. P. (2022). An Investigation of Charging Effects by Different Factors on Carbon and Natural Bamboo Fibers in High-Resolution Scanning Electron Microscopic Imaging. Journal of Natural Fibers, 19(1), 145–158. https://doi.org/10.1080/15440478.2020.1731906
4. Rocky, B. P., & Thompson, A. J. (2021). Strategies of the Online Bamboo Viscose Clothing and Textiles Retailers. Current Trends in Fashion Technology & Textile Engineering, 7(3), 049–058. https://juniperpublishers.com/ctftte/CTFTTE.MS.ID.555713.php
5. Rocky, B. P., Weinberger, C. R., Daniewicz, S. R., & Thompson, G. B. (2021). Carbide nanoparticle dispersion techniques for metal powder metallurgy. Metals, 11(6), 871. https://doi.org/10.3390/met11060871
6. Rocky, B. P., & Thompson, A. J. (2021). Investigation and comparison of antibacterial property of bamboo plants, natural bamboo fibers and commercial bamboo viscose textiles. Journal of the Textile Institute, 112(7), 1159–1170. https://doi.org/10.1080/00405000.2020.1807300
7. Rocky, B. P., & Thompson, A. J. (2021). Analyses of the Chemical Compositions and Structures of Four Bamboo Species and their Natural Fibers by Infrared, Laser, and X-ray Spectroscopies. Fibers and Polymers, 22(4), 916–927. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12221-021-0303-8
8. Rocky, B. P., & Thompson, A. J. (2021). Characterization of the crystallographic properties of bamboo plants, natural and viscose fibers by X-ray diffraction method. Journal of the Textile Institute, 112(8), 1295–1303. https://doi.org/10.1080/00405000.2020.1813407
9. Rocky, B. P., & Thompson, A. J. (2020, December). Modified Techniques to Detect Antibacterial Activity of Bamboo and Natural Bamboo Fiber. In International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings (Vol. 77, No. 1). Iowa State University Digital Press. https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.11968
10. Rocky, B. P., & Thompson, A. J. (2020). Production and Modification of Natural Bamboo Fibers from Four Bamboo Species, and Their Prospects in Textile Manufacturing. Fibers and Polymers, 21(12), 2740–2752. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12221-020-1208-7
11. Thompson, A. J., & Rocky, B. P. (2020). How is Vague Language Being Used in Retail Websites for Bamboo Viscose Products?. Sustainability in Fashion, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.31274/susfashion.11422
12. Rocky, A. B. P., & Molla, M. T. I. (2019). Interaction of the Qualities and Properties between Yarns and Fabrics. Journal of American Science, 15(6), 69–77. https://doi.org/10.7537/marsjas150619.10
13. Rocky, A. B. P. (2019). Production, modification, and characterization of natural bamboo fiber. The University of Alabama. https://www.proquest.com/openview/ebbe74c6a156bbc68cc5d360be687b64/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
14. Rocky, B. P., & Wimberley, V. (2018, January). Investigation of the Exraction Processes and Performance Properties of Kudzu Fibers. In International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings (Vol. 75, No. 1). Iowa State University Digital Press. https://www.iastatedigitalpress.com/itaa/article/id/1214/
15. Rocky, B. P., & Thompson, A. J. (2018). Production of natural bamboo fibers-3: SEM and EDX analyses of structures and properties. AATCC Journal of Research, 5(6), 27–35. https://doi.org/10.14504/AJR.5.6.4
16. Rocky, B. P., & Thompson, A. J. (2019). Production of natural bamboo fiber—2: Assessment and comparison of antibacterial activity. AATCC Journal of Research, 6(5), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.14504/ajr.6.5.1
17. Rocky, B. P., & Thompson, A. J. (2018). Production of natural bamboo fibers-1: experimental approaches to different processes and analyses. Journal of the Textile Institute, 109(10), 1381–1391. https://doi.org/10.1080/00405000.2018.1482639
18. Rocky, A. B. P., & Thompson, A. J. (2016, December). Production of Ecofriendly Natural Bamboo Bast Fiber and Assessment of Antibacterial Activity. In International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings (Vol. 74, No. 1). Iowa State University Digital Press. https://www.iastatedigitalpress.com/itaa/article/id/1653/
19. Rocky, A. B. P. (2017). An experimental study toward eco-friendly bamboo fiber extraction for textiles. The University of Alabama. https://www.proquest.com/openview/fb9c334afe91b04308b8a56ba8797e1c/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750 or https://ir.ua.edu/items/894040a1-98e2-4a82-844d-2b1d692dfb4a
20. Rocky, A. B. P. (2015). Interaction of some properties among yarns and jersey, rib, and interlock knit fabrics. AATCC Review, 15(4), 46–53. https://doi.org/10.7939/r3-xttr-v742
21. Rocky, A. B. P. (2012). Comparison of Effectiveness Between Conventional Scouring & Bio-Scouring On Cotton Fabrics. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 3(8), 1–5. www.ijser.org/paper/Comparison-of-Effectiveness-Between-Conventional-Scouring-BioScouring-On-Cotton-Fabrics.html

Selected Conference Proceedings

• Rocky, B. P., et al. (2022). Mechanical Property Alterations through Hydrogen Trapping by Nanocarbide Dispersions in Steels. MS&T22: Materials Science & Technology – Steels for Sustainable Development, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.

Link: https://www.programmaster.org/PM/PM.nsf/ApprovedAbstracts/DFA794464C18E77A85258806005210CA?OpenDocument

• Rocky, B. P., et al. (2021). Dispersing Tailored Nanoparticles through Powder Metallurgy Consolidation. At MS&T21: Materials Science & Technology, Columbus, Ohio, USA.

Link: https://www.matscitech.org/mst21/downloads/MST21_Technical_Program_Mobile.pdf

• Rocky, B. P., et al. (2020). How is Vague Language Being Used in Retail Websites for Bamboo Viscose Products? At Regent’s University London, Sustainability in Fashion – ITAA Proceedings, London, UK.

Link: https://www.regents.ac.uk/sites/default/files/2019-07/Regent%27s-Sustainability-in-Fashion_Programme_2019.pdf

• Rocky, B. P., et al. (2020). Modified Techniques to Detect Antibacterial Activity of Bamboo and Natural Bamboo Fiber (NBF). International Textile and Apparel Association (ITAA) 2020 Virtual Annual Conference.

Link: https://www.iastatedigitalpress.com/itaa/article/id/11968/

• Rocky, B. P., et al. (2018). Investigation of the Extraction Processes and Performance Properties of Kudzu Fibers. At International Textile and Apparel Association (ITAA) Annual Conference, Cleveland, Ohio.

Link: https://www.iastatedigitalpress.com/itaa/article/id/1214/ 

• Rocky, A. B. P., et al. (2017). Production of Ecofriendly Natural Bamboo Bast Fiber and Assessment of Antibacterial Activity. At International Textile and Apparel Association (ITAA) Annual Conference, St. Petersburg, Florida.

Link: https://www.iastatedigitalpress.com/itaa/article/id/1653/

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