KAUST and SABIC are collaborating on research in flexible electronics. The collaboration involves researchers from KAUST and SABIC's New Materials Solutions Group working together in KAUST labs. The research aims to develop innovations in new materials. Why it matters: This partnership highlights the increasing focus on materials science and advanced manufacturing within Saudi Arabia's research and development landscape.
KAUST and SABIC held the inaugural SABIC Day at KAUST, reinforcing their commitment to Saudi Arabia's RDI ecosystem. SABIC's Executive VP highlighted the potential for deeper engagement in circular economy, carbon neutrality, and differentiated solutions. The event strengthened industry-academia ties, showcasing SABIC as a collaborator and potential employer for KAUST researchers. Why it matters: This collaboration is strategically aligned with Vision 2030, fostering a skilled workforce and driving impactful innovations for sustainable growth in Saudi Arabia.
SABIC recognized 15 KAUST postdoctoral fellows for research excellence at the fourth SABIC Postdoctoral Fellowship Awards. The awards highlight SABIC’s commitment to KAUST’s research efforts in areas like nanomaterials, polymer synthesis, catalysis, and computational modeling. SABIC plans increased collaboration with KAUST to develop technologies that drive competitiveness and yield societal benefits. Why it matters: The ongoing SABIC-KAUST partnership exemplifies industry-academia collaboration in Saudi Arabia, fostering innovation in materials science and related fields critical to the Kingdom's development.
A KAUST organic chemistry lab partnered with SABIC to explore using nanomaterials originally designed for biomedical applications as fillers in recyclable plastics. The collaboration allowed the lab to consider scalability and cost-effectiveness in their research. The partnership also helped to bridge the gap between academic research and industry needs. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights the importance of industry-academia partnerships in translating research into practical applications and advancing sustainable materials.
A KAUST team led by Prof. Hussain published a paper in ACS Nano detailing their use of industry-compatible processes to create a flexible transistor with a bending radius of 0.5 mm. The transistor is constructed from a monocrystalline silicon-based substrate and uses a process that does not degrade device performance. The team's approach uses a network of trenches/holes and a back-etch process to create flexible electronics without compromising cost, yield, performance, and efficiency. Why it matters: This research paves the way for high-performance, portable electronics using silicon, a material already widely used in the electronics industry.