KAUST Catalysis Center (KCC) and KAUST Solar Center (KSC) partnered with Nigerian startup Newdigit Technologies to develop their "Just Add Water" pilot. The project aims to use electrolysis powered by photovoltaics to split water into hydrogen (for cooking) and oxygen. The hydrogen produced can be utilized as a clean-burning gas for cooking, while the fuel cell generates electricity and produces clean drinking water. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights KAUST's role in fostering sustainable energy solutions for developing nations and addressing critical challenges like energy access and indoor air quality.
KAUST Ph.D. student Mohammed Al-Alouni is researching the conversion of crude oil to petrochemicals, working in the Advanced Membranes & Porous Materials Center and the Catalysis Center under Professor Yu Han. His work focuses on converting simple molecules into more complex and economically viable ones, inspired by the scientific approach of Jabir ibn Hayyan. Al-Alouni previously worked at Saudi Aramco and graduated from KFUPM with a bachelor's degree in 2014. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in fostering advanced research in petrochemicals and materials science, crucial for Saudi Arabia's economic diversification efforts.
Sergey Kozlov, a research scientist at KAUST's Catalysis Center (KCC), is leaving to take up a tenure-track position as an assistant professor at the National University of Singapore (NUS). During his time at KAUST, Kozlov focused on simulating the chemical properties of catalysts using computational chemistry methods and the Shaheen II supercomputer. His research focused on applications in energy and CO2 utilization technologies. Why it matters: Kozlov's move highlights KAUST's role in developing research talent and contributing to advancements in computational chemistry and catalysis within the region.
KAUST Ph.D. student Reem Alghamdi is working at the KAUST Catalysis Center to improve the quality of industrially used polyethylene. Her research focuses on synthesizing a nanocomposite of polyethylene and nanomaterials to reinforce industrially made polymers, improving their mechanical characteristics. The resulting hybrid organic-inorganic product minimizes manufacturing defects, enhancing hardness. Why it matters: This research has the potential to significantly improve the durability and performance of polymer products across various sectors, from automotive to construction, impacting numerous industries in the region and beyond.
Dinesh Nanaji Sawant, a former KAUST postdoctoral fellow, has been appointed as a Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) Research Ambassador for India. Sawant, who worked at the KAUST Catalysis Center (KCC) from 2012-2016, is now an assistant professor at the Indian Institute of Technology. As a research ambassador, he will promote research opportunities in Germany to Indian students and facilitate academic cooperation. Why it matters: This appointment highlights KAUST's role in fostering international research collaborations and its alumni's contributions to global scientific exchange.
Abhay Dokania, a Ph.D. student at KAUST, is researching the conversion of CO2 to useful chemicals under the supervision of Professor Jorge Gascon at the KAUST Catalysis Center. His work focuses on developing multi-functional heterogeneous catalysts. Dokania's background includes degrees from Birla Institute and TU Delft, as well as research experience in the Netherlands. Why it matters: This research contributes to sustainable chemical engineering and CO2 reduction, aligning with Saudi Arabia's broader environmental goals.
KAUST postdoctoral fellow Anastasiya Bavykina works in the Catalysis Center, focusing on converting carbon dioxide into methanol using a novel catalyst developed at KAUST, achieving around 80% selectivity. She emphasizes KAUST's state-of-the-art facilities as crucial for her research productivity. Bavykina aims to address real-world challenges by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and producing a valuable chemical. Why it matters: This research contributes to sustainable chemical production and aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions, showcasing KAUST's role in addressing environmental challenges.
KAUST M.S./Ph.D. student Mohammad Alabdullah is researching crude oil conversion and catalyst formulation in the KAUST Catalysis Center under Professor Jorge Gascon. Alabdullah, a KFUPM graduate who previously worked at Saudi Aramco's R&D center, aims to develop innovative technology for industrial applications. He appreciates KAUST's state-of-the-art facilities and focus on real-world applications and plans to return to Saudi Aramco after his studies. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in developing Saudi talent for the petrochemical industry and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.