KAUST and Saudi Aramco collaborated to develop a laser-based sensor for detecting trace amounts of gas leaks in petrochemical plants. The sensor uses machine learning to identify specific gases, differentiating it from previous sensors that only detect large leaks. The technology can differentiate between closely related industrial gases like benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene and xylene (BTEX). Why it matters: This innovation enables proactive monitoring and rapid pinpointing of leaks, enhancing safety, environmental protection, and operational efficiency in the petrochemical industry.
KAUST Professor Aamir Farooq has been named a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC) for his contributions to chemical kinetics research. Farooq leads the KAUST Chemical Kinetics and Laser Sensors Laboratory, which focuses on understanding fundamental processes in energy conversion. His research currently investigates the chemistry of e-fuels, biofuels, low-carbon fuels, and zero-carbon fuels, with a focus on hydrogen and ammonia. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's contributions to sustainable energy research and positions the university as a key player in developing future fuel technologies.
KAUST Associate Professor Aamir Farooq has been named a co-recipient of the 2019 Hiroshi Tsuji Early Career Researcher Award, co-sponsored by Elsevier and The Combustion Institute. Farooq, who leads the KAUST Chemical Kinetics and Laser Sensors Laboratory, is recognized for his work on fuel ignition chemistry. His research aims to improve fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in transportation and power generation. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering talented faculty and advancing research in clean combustion, a critical area for Saudi Arabia's energy future.
KAUST researchers developed a laser-based sensor that exploits the "chirp" phenomenon in semiconductor lasers to accurately measure gas temperature in combustion systems. The sensor uses spectroscopic measurements at very fast rates (1.0 MHz) and can measure temperature at the nanosecond timescale at repetition rates of thousands of kHz. The new sensor reduces uncertainty compared to previous methods and works rapidly in transient shock tube experiments. Why it matters: This in-house development provides a non-invasive, accurate, and easily implementable system for combustion research, with implications for understanding and improving energy efficiency.
Fethi Khaled, a mechanical engineering Ph.D. student at KAUST's Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC), is researching fuel combustion with a focus on cleaner, safer, and more efficient energy sources. His work in the Chemical Kinetics and Laser Sensors Laboratory under Professor Aamir Farooq involves studying the science of combustion and different energy sources like fossil and solar energy. Khaled aims to contribute to inventing new combustion engine modes that are more efficient and produce less or zero pollutants. Why it matters: This research aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader goals of promoting sustainable energy solutions and reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels, contributing to environmental sustainability and economic diversification.