Prof. José María Franco Gómez is a distinguished scholar and Full Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of Huelva, Spain, widely recognized for his pioneering research in rheology, polymers, and complex fluid systems. With an extensive academic and industrial research career exceeding three decades, his scientific contributions have significantly advanced the understanding and application of non-Newtonian fluid behavior, biopolymers, lubricants, adhesives, and coatings. His innovative studies on structuring oleogels and developing eco-friendly rheological modifiers from renewable resources have positioned him at the forefront of sustainable materials engineering. Prof. Franco has authored more than 200 peer-reviewed scientific papers and several influential book chapters, and has served as co-editor of key volumes on rheology. His research excellence is reflected in a high citation index and numerous leadership roles in national and international projects. Beyond academia, he has successfully bridged the gap between science and industry, leading over 40 technology transfer projects and collaborating with global corporations such as Procter & Gamble, Fresenius Kabi, and Repsol. His work has yielded multiple patents that contribute to cleaner and more efficient industrial processes. A respected mentor, he has supervised numerous doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, fostering future leaders in chemical and materials engineering. As Director of the Pro2TecS Research Center and the “Complex Fluids Engineering” group, he continues to drive innovation in green chemistry and advanced material technologies. Prof. Franco’s enduring influence extends through his editorial roles in leading scientific journals, participation in major international conferences, and recognition by academic and governmental institutions for his outstanding scientific trajectory and contributions to sustainable industrial development.
Featured Publications
Rubio-Valle, J. F., Valencia, C., Estrada-Villegas, G. M., Martín-Alfonso, J. E., & Franco, J. M. (2025). Exploration of low-sulfonate lignin electrospinning conditions for the development of new renewable lubricant formulations.
Rubio-Valle, J. F., Martínez-Guerra, E., Sánchez-Domínguez, M., Vázquez-Lepe, E., Rodríguez, C., Valencia, C., Martín-Alfonso, J. E., & Franco, J. M. (2025). Advanced multifunctional oil structurants for sustainable lubricants engineered by electrospinning lignin/cellulose acetate butyrate nanofibers and TiO₂ atomic layer deposition.
Toro-Gallego, M., Valencia, C., Sánchez, M. C., Martín-Alfonso, J. E., & Franco, J. M. (2025, February 15). Use of electrospun cellulose acetate/silica composites as multifunctional ingredients in eco-friendly semisolid lubricant formulations
Martín-Alfonso, M. A., Rubio-Valle, J. F., Valencia Barragán, C., Martín-Alfonso, J. E., & Franco, J. M. (2024). Environmentally-friendly lubricating dispersions obtained using castor oil and cellulose acetate derivatives nanostructures.
Martín-Alfonso, M. A., Rubio-Valle, J. F., Martín-Alfonso, J. E., & Franco, J. M. (2024). Rheological characterization of oleo-dispersions based on montmorillonite/cellulose acetate phthalate hybrid fibers and castor oil for lubricant purposes.