Researchers at KAUST have developed a new polymer membrane for desalination that operates at ambient temperature and pressure. The membrane achieves high salt rejection with lower energy demand compared to conventional methods. It is currently being tested at pilot scale at KAUST. Why it matters: This technology could improve water sustainability and reduce energy consumption in desalination, addressing critical water challenges in arid regions like Saudi Arabia.
KAUST startup Lihytech has raised US$6 million in funding from Ma'aden and the KAUST Innovation Ventures Fund. Lihytech's patented membrane technology, developed by Professor Zhiping Lai at KAUST, extracts battery-grade lithium from sources like seawater. The funding will be used to build a pilot facility at KAUST to extract lithium from the Red Sea and other in-Kingdom resources. Why it matters: This investment supports Saudi Arabia's goal of developing a complete electric vehicle value chain and becoming a key player in meeting global lithium demand.
KAUST researchers have developed polytriazole membranes for energy-efficient crude oil fractionation, as detailed in a recent Science Magazine paper. Led by Dr. Suzana Nunes and Dr. Stefan Chisca, the team created membranes that can withstand harsh industrial conditions like high temperatures and organic solvents. The membranes offer a low-carbon footprint alternative to traditional separation techniques like distillation. Why it matters: This innovation could significantly reduce energy consumption and promote a circular carbon economy in the petrochemical industry within the GCC region and beyond.
KAUST Vice Provost Suzana Nunes has been appointed as an Honorary Member of the European Membrane Society (EMS). This appointment recognizes Nunes' contributions to education, science, and technology in the field of membranes. Nunes has been a KAUST professor since 2009, focusing on polymeric materials for membrane applications. Why it matters: The recognition highlights KAUST's contributions to advanced materials science and engineering, enhancing its reputation as a research hub.
KAUST research scientist Giuseppe Genduso has received the 2020 NAMS Young Membrane Scientist Award. Genduso's research at the KAUST Advanced Membranes & Porous Materials Center focuses on understanding polymer membrane behavior for fluid separation. His work explores the sorption and diffusion of gases in advanced polymer materials. Why it matters: This award recognizes Genduso's contributions to membrane technology, which holds promise for energy-efficient fluid separations and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the chemical industry.
KAUST Professor Ingo Pinnau has been named a 2020 Fellow of the North American Membrane Society (NAMS). Pinnau's research focuses on high-performance membranes for energy-intensive gas and liquid separations. He has published over 170 peer-reviewed papers and holds 46 granted U.S. patents. Why it matters: Recognition of KAUST faculty in this area highlights the university's contribution to advanced materials research, which is crucial for energy and sustainability initiatives in Saudi Arabia and globally.
KAUST alumna Jamaliah Aburabi’e's patent-pending membrane technology was highlighted in the North American Membrane Society's (NAMS) magazine. The patent (2017/0225127), developed with advisor Professor Klaus-Viktor Peinemann, describes a new method for preparing anisotropic/cross-linked membranes. The method reduces steps in membrane preparation, making it energy-efficient and allowing customization of the membrane's selective layer. Why it matters: This recognition highlights the impact of KAUST research in advanced materials and separation technologies, showcasing innovations with potential for energy efficiency and customization in industrial applications.
Scientists at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), including Professor Suzana Nunes and Assistant Professor Anqi Wang, contributed to new research on advanced membrane technology published in *Science*.
This technology aims to significantly improve the efficiency of crude oil refining by reducing energy consumption, offering a lower-energy alternative to conventional thermal distillation.
The international team developed membranes with selective nanoscale pores that prevent swelling when exposed to hydrocarbons and are designed for scalable industrial integration.
Why it matters: This breakthrough could help Saudi Arabia's refining and petrochemical sectors substantially cut energy use and carbon emissions, making industrial processes cleaner and more efficient.