Dr. Chen’s major research focuses are on the development of renewable fibers and fiber composite materials from natural resources. His current research projects include production and evaluation of biobased nonwoven composites for automotive interior manufacture; fabrication and characterization of activated carbon fiber materials for end uses in protective garments, water/air filtration, bio- and chemical-contaminant cleanup, and noise absorption and insulation; and regenerated cellulose/nanoparticle polymers and fibers.