A KAUST-led team developed a nano-optical chip capable of generating and controlling nanoscale rogue waves. The chip, detailed in Nature Physics, uses a planar photonic crystal fabricated at the University of St. Andrews and tested at FOM Institute AMOLF. It enables unprecedented control over these rare, high-energy events, opening possibilities for energy research and environmental safety. Why it matters: This innovation provides a new platform for studying extreme events and potentially harnessing their energy, advancing both fundamental science and practical applications in areas like renewable energy and disaster prevention.
J. Carlos Santamarina, a Professor of Earth Science and Engineering at KAUST, is researching geomaterial behavior and subsurface processes. His work focuses on energy geo-engineering, resource recovery, and geological storage of energy waste. He uses particle-level experiments, numerical methods, and monitoring systems to understand coupled thermo-hydro-bio-chemo-mechanically processes. Why it matters: This research contributes to energy sustainability and addresses global energy challenges through advanced geotechnology.
William Tang from Princeton spoke at KAUST about using deep learning to achieve nuclear fusion. Nuclear fusion, recreating stellar conditions on Earth, is considered the "holy grail" of power sources because it is clean and does not produce radioactive waste. Tokamaks, invented by Soviet physicists, are devices used to contain plasma, the superheated ionized gas required for fusion. Why it matters: KAUST is contributing to research on sustainable energy solutions, including exploring the potential of AI in nuclear fusion, a potentially transformative clean energy source.
Dr. Leslie Dewan, co-founder and CEO of Transatomic, spoke at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program about next-generation sustainable nuclear power plants. Dewan advocates for both nuclear and renewable energy to meet energy demands. She believes her company's new reactor design, which uses better fuel and reduces nuclear waste, is ideal for countries with rising power demands like Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's engagement with innovative energy solutions and their potential relevance to Saudi Arabia's future energy strategy.
The Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) at TII will participate in the 2021 Joint IEEE International Symposium on Electromagnetic Compatibility, Signal & Power Integrity, and EMC Europe. DERC will present scientific papers and a tutorial on Nuclear Electromagnetic Pulse (NEMP) with ETS Lindgren, led by Dr. Nicolas Mora. Dr. Mora and Professor Farhad Rachidi will present a tutorial on High Altitude Electromagnetic Pulse (HEMP), Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP), and Intentional Electromagnetic Interference (IEMI). Why it matters: The participation highlights the UAE's growing expertise in electromagnetic compatibility and protection, particularly regarding critical infrastructure resilience against electromagnetic threats.