KAUST researchers have developed a surface treatment for jute storage bags to prevent moisture-induced damage to stored grains. The treatment involves roughening the jute surface with an alkali and applying a thin layer of paraffin wax. Experiments showed that seed moisture content reduced by up to 7.5 percent in wax-coated bags, and seed germination efficacy after storage was up to 35 percent higher. Why it matters: This simple, scalable technique could significantly reduce grain losses in developing countries and provide an environmentally friendly alternative for grain storage.
Researchers at KAUST and KACST have developed a composite material that enhances solar cell performance by absorbing air moisture at night and releasing it during the day. When applied to solar cells in Saudi Arabia, the material increased power output by 12.9% and extended cell lifespan by over 200%. The passive cooling technology also reduced electricity generation costs by 18%. Why it matters: This innovation addresses a key challenge in solar energy adoption in hot climates, potentially making solar power more efficient and cost-effective in the region.
KAUST researchers, led by Mohamed Eddaoudi, developed a metal-organic framework (MOF) capable of selectively adsorbing water, challenging the conventional view of MOF instability in water. They also advanced MOF understanding by adapting high-resolution transmission electron microscopy to observe their atomic structure. KAUST hosted the Innovation to Impact Roundtable, fostering collaboration between academics and industry leaders from the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: These activities highlight KAUST's role in materials science innovation and fostering international research collaborations to advance technological development in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST researchers have achieved a breakthrough by passing the damp-heat test for perovskite solar cells (PSCs), a rigorous assessment of their ability to withstand prolonged exposure to high humidity and temperatures. The team engineered 2D-perovskite passivation layers that block moisture and enhance power conversion efficiencies. The successful test, which requires maintaining 95% of initial performance after 1,000 hours at 85% humidity and 85 degrees Celsius, marks a significant step toward commercialization. Why it matters: This advancement addresses a critical weakness of PSCs and brings the technology closer to competing with silicon solar cells in terms of stability and longevity, crucial for widespread adoption of renewable energy.
Sadeem, a startup founded by KAUST Ph.D. graduates, develops flood and traffic sensors powered by solar batteries and transceivers. The company's technology originated as a Ph.D. project and has been supported by the KAUST Entrepreneurship Center, including participation in the KAUST Hikma IP-based Startup Accelerator program. Sadeem's sensors are designed to mitigate damage and save lives from floods, with ten nodes currently operating on the KAUST campus. Why it matters: The development and deployment of such sensor technologies in Saudi Arabia could improve urban resilience and disaster response in flood-prone areas across the GCC region.
DERC is partnering with EPFL in Switzerland on a four-year project using EMTR and ML to study electromagnetic disturbance localization in PCBs. Professor Farhad Rachidi (EPFL) and Dr. Nicolas Mora (DERC) will mentor a PhD student. The collaboration builds on prior relationships between DERC researchers and Prof. Rachidi's lab. Why it matters: The partnership strengthens DERC's methodological expertise and international recognition in electromagnetic studies, potentially leading to further collaborations.
KAUST researchers developed a water-stable MOF for energy-efficient dehydration, overturning conventional views. They also adapted high-resolution transmission electron microscopy to observe the atomic structure of metal-organic frameworks. KAUST hosted the Innovation to Impact Roundtable, fostering collaboration between academics and industry leaders from the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: These activities highlight KAUST's commitment to research breakthroughs, talent development, and fostering international collaborations in science and technology.