Juan Baena Vargas

Dr Juan Baena Vargas is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Faculty of Engineering. His research focuses on advanced materials for acoustic and fire safety applications, as well as tribological properties of polymers for biomedical use.

His primary research interests encompass the development of metamaterials for underwater sound absorption, fire-retardant coatings and composites for bushfire protection, and the mechanical and tribological behavior of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) composites in artificial joints. He employs nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes and graphene to enhance material properties through innovative fabrication methods including 3D printing and visible light polymerization.

Analysis of his recent publications (2023-2015) indicates a strategic shift toward fire safety and acoustic materials since 2020, with 12 of 15 recent articles addressing flame retardancy or sound absorption. His work demonstrates expertise in optimizing nanocomposite formulations (PDMS/MWCNT, silicone rubber/graphene) and bio-inspired coatings (chitosan-expandable graphite), while his foundational research on UHMWPE tribology remains influential in biomedical engineering.