The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) successfully launched the UAE’s first sounding rocket with hybrid propulsion, reaching an altitude of 3 kilometers. The rocket features a fully UAE-designed, tested, and operated propulsion system using nitrous oxide and high-density polyethylene. The design eliminates complex ground infrastructure and cryogenic handling, enhancing operational safety and efficiency. Why it matters: This marks a major milestone for the UAE's space program, demonstrating the nation's capability to independently build and launch advanced aerospace systems.
Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) and KAUST have launched a pilot study at SEC’s Rabigh power plant to demonstrate a cryogenic technology that captures multiple pollutants and greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide. The technology captures over 98% of carbon dioxide from flue gas, as well as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, using a single system, unlike current technologies. The streamlined post-processing has a smaller environmental footprint and lower costs. Why it matters: This project supports Saudi Arabia's net-zero carbon goals and offers a potentially more efficient and cost-effective method for retrofitting existing power plants.
KAUST, ENOWA, and SEC are partnering on a pilot project to capture 30 tonnes of CO2 per day from SEC’s Green Duba power plant at NEOM, using cryogenic carbon capture technology. The captured carbon will be used for food and beverage applications and to produce e-fuels. Saudi Electricity Company will build and operate the pilot plant. Why it matters: This partnership demonstrates Saudi Arabia's commitment to decarbonization and showcases the potential of cryogenic carbon capture for reducing the Kingdom's carbon footprint.
KAUST is developing portable, containerized cryogenic carbon capture (CCC) technology for industrial emissions reduction. The system captures CO2 and SO2, offering a modular design for ships and other applications, with post-processing done onshore. KAUST and SEC launched a demonstration exercise in November 2024 showcasing the technology. Why it matters: This innovation could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of industries and maritime transport in line with Saudi Arabia's sustainability goals.
KAUST is aligning its research, partnerships, and education with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 priorities, focusing on areas like energy transition, food security, and environmental resilience. A white paper released by KAUST outlines six focus areas including driving economic and industrial innovation and strengthening Saudi Arabia’s global scientific presence. Examples of KAUST initiatives include Cryogenic Carbon and Sulfur Co-capture (CCSC) technology and the KAUST Future Mobility Sandbox. Why it matters: This strategic alignment positions KAUST as a key player in advancing Saudi Arabia's national development goals through targeted research and innovation.
KAUST's National Transformation Institute (NTI), led by Dr. Ian Campbell, aims to accelerate Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by commercializing KAUST research. NTI facilitates collaborations between government, industry, and academia to create jobs and develop solutions for climate change, sustainability, and economic diversification. The institute focuses on projects like coral reef restoration, cryogenic carbon capture, and sustainable animal feed development. Why it matters: NTI's mission to translate research into real-world solutions will help to strengthen Saudi Arabia's innovation ecosystem and diversify its economy.
KAUST researchers participated in COP28 in Dubai, showcasing environmental research from sustainable construction to coral restoration. Professor William Roberts presented cryogenic carbon capture, while Professor Hussein Hoteit demonstrated carbon dioxide removal and underground hydrogen storage. A KAUST spinout, ClimateCrete™, launched technology to make local sand suitable for concrete, reducing carbon emissions by up to 60%. Why it matters: KAUST's presence at COP28 highlights the institution's role in driving regional climate solutions and fostering public-private partnerships for environmental sustainability.
KAUST researchers used cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to study the 3D structure of protein complexes involved in DNA replication and repair. They investigated the interaction between the Y-family TLS polymerase Pol K and mono-ubiquitylated PCNA. The study revealed that DNA binding is required for Pol K to form a rigid, active complex with PCNA. Why it matters: Understanding these structural interactions may provide insights into cancer development and drug resistance mechanisms.