Researchers from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and Aramco have achieved the highest reported efficiency in converting carbon dioxide into jet fuel-range hydrocarbons, a critical step for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) development. Their work, published in ChemCatalysis, details a machine learning-driven approach that identified an unconventional copper-rich catalyst capable of yielding 75% jet fuel-range product and operating continuously for over 1,000 hours. The upgraded liquid fuel met key prescreening parameters aligned with international aviation standards, including flash point and energy content. Why it matters: This breakthrough offers a more efficient and stable pathway for producing SAF from captured CO₂, addressing a significant challenge in decarbonizing the hard-to-abate aviation sector.
TII's Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) is now the first in the GCC to reproduce high-altitude electromagnetic pulses (HEMP) from nuclear reactions using its EMC labs, in partnership with Montena Technologies. The Nuclear Electromagnetic Pulse Simulator allows local testing of critical infrastructure and electronics, reducing reliance on foreign facilities. DERC's capabilities will support government entities and industries in hardening equipment against international standards. Why it matters: This provides strategic autonomy and enhances the UAE's ability to protect critical infrastructure from electromagnetic threats, benefiting various sectors including emergency services, telecommunications, and finance.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has launched Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) laboratories in Abu Dhabi, the first such facility in the Arab world. The facility at TII's Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) includes three labs: an EMC semi-anechoic chamber, a pulsed power laboratory, and a low-noise emanation laboratory. These labs will enable evaluation of technologies against electromagnetic interference and support in-country R&D and local industry in line with UAE's 'Operation 300bn'. Why it matters: This advanced infrastructure signals the UAE's commitment to fostering innovation in electronics and related sectors, reducing reliance on foreign testing and certification.
Technology Innovation Institute's (TII) Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) has launched its Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) lab at Tawazun Industrial Park in Abu Dhabi. The lab features an E3 test system to provide engineering services and EMC compliance support to local industries. It offers over 16 EMC validation tests, reducing the need for local companies to seek validation services abroad. Why it matters: This lab is the first research facility of its kind in the UAE, poised to improve product quality, reduce validation costs, and foster collaboration between industry and academia in the region.
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.