Weaving a sustainable future: The inspiring scientific journey of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho

For Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho, Vice Dean of the Garment - Textile Technology and Fashion Design Faculty at Hanoi University of Industry (HaUI), science is much more than laboratory data and fabric samples. It is a lifelong commitment to translating academic research into real-world solutions that directly benefit the community.

From academic milestones to practical solutions

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in Textile Technology, eventually leading to her specialization in Materials Technology. In 2025, she achieved a significant milestone by becoming one of the few women approved for the title of Associate Professor by the Mechanics and Motive Power Council, a testament to her resilience and expertise in a STEM field.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho radiates joy on the day of her Associate Professor appointment, marking a proud milestone in her lifelong dedication to science and education

However, her true legacy lies in her applied research. Recognizing the untapped potential of Vietnam's native herbs, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho spent three years developing a method to replace synthetic chemicals with natural essential oils. This effort culminated in 2018 with the launch of KeiTi-One, an antibacterial wet wipe developed through a Ministry of Industry and Trade-funded project.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho personally donates thousands of antibacterial wet wipes developed from her own research to Viet Duc Friendship Hospital, joining the community in disease prevention

Her work took on even greater meaning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho mobilized the production of tens of thousands of natural wet wipes, millions of fabric masks, and internationally certified protective suits (secured under Exclusive Patent No. 46673). By delivering these essential supplies directly to frontline workers at Viet Duc Friendship Hospital, she reinforced her core belief: true science serves humanity.

KeiTi One antibacterial wet wipes feature natural essential oils instead of artificial fragrances to guarantee skin safety and environmental sustainability

Building on the findings of her doctoral dissertation, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho collaborated with enterprises to launch the industrial scale production of millions of fabric masks, actively protecting public health during the Covid 19 pandemic

Premium medical masks and protective clothing meeting global standards represent the successful application of a national research initiative

Pioneering Sustainable Textiles

Driven by a vision for a greener future, Dr. Tho is tackling the most critical challenge within the global textile sector by focusing entirely on sustainability. She leads groundbreaking research designed to conserve water during dyeing procedures while creating advanced antibacterial fabrics for clinical applications under national project ĐTĐLCN 48/21. By extracting chitosan from seafood waste to serve as a natural antibacterial agent, she demonstrates a deep commitment to manufacturing practices that actively protect the environment.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho closely mentors her students, expertly guiding them to explore complex technologies and master advanced analytical equipment

Her latest initiatives explore the weaving and dyeing of recycled polyamide to help build a robust circular economy in Vietnam. Through her extensive academic contributions, which feature five textbooks alongside 45 scientific articles published in highly respected journals indexed by Scopus and ISI, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho continues to profoundly reshape the national textile landscape.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho personally addresses concerns and provides detailed academic orientations for prospective students and their parents at the Admissions Open Day

Mentoring the Next Generation

Transitioning seamlessly from her research projects to the classroom, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho is a deeply devoted educator. Over the past eight years at Hanoi University of Industry, she has mentored countless future engineers. By balancing strict academic rigor with genuine compassion, she expertly guides her students from early material experiments all the way to competitive international fashion runways. Her greatest reward comes from watching these young professionals build the creative confidence required to excel globally.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho proudly supports and cheers on young HaUI designers at the Global Junior Fashion Week 2025 hosted at the Hanoi Museum

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho shares a joyful moment with her students at the Student Scientific Research Summary and Award Conference

Commemorating International Women Day, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho delivers a profound message to women embracing careers in science and technology: "To pursue engineering as a woman is a noble and deeply proud endeavor. Achieving greatness requires unwavering faith in your own resilience and the courage to step past familiar boundaries. Women inherently possess the extraordinary capability to architect our world."

Beyond her rigorous academic commitments, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho dedicates her time to guide students through various cultural and community activities

Navigating an era of rapid technological progress, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luu Thi Tho remains an exceptional guiding force at Hanoi University of Industry. She masterfully weaves profound human values into the academic environment, ensuring that scientific advancements always serve a greater purpose. The university deeply respects her brilliant intellect and relentless dedication, celebrating a visionary educator who continuously elevates the entire academic community