KAUST and KACST researchers have developed a nanoPE nanoplastic that improves LED streetlight energy efficiency by enhancing thermal radiation emission and reducing LED temperature. The nanoPE coating allows infrared light to pass through while reflecting visible light, optimizing illumination. Simulations suggest that adopting this technology in the US could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over one million metric tons. Why it matters: This innovation offers a sustainable lighting solution with significant potential for reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions in Saudi Arabia and globally.
Dr. Giampiero Marchegiani from the Quantum Research Center (QRC) co-authored a paper in Nature Nanotechnology on bipolar thermoelectricity in Josephson junctions. The research demonstrates the generation of electrical current using heat, observing bipolar thermoelectricity where the device generates either positive or negative electrical signals without extra control. Integrating these junctions into a bipolar thermoelectric Josephson engine (BTJE) allowed the generation of up to ~140nW/mm2 of electric power at subkelvin temperatures. Why it matters: This BTJE engine may have applications in superconducting technology, potentially strengthening the UAE's position in quantum technologies.
KAUST Ph.D. student Amal Mohammed Alamri was a finalist in the July 2018 IEEE nanoArt Competition, part of the 18th IEEE International Conference on Nanotechnology in Cork, Ireland. Her work, displayed at University College Cork and Crawford/CIT Gallery, involved stacking n-type MoS2 single crystal with p-type perovskite CH3NH3PbBr3 single crystal. Alamri's IEEE Nano paper entitled "Photonic Single Crystal Heterostructures based on Perovskites/Molybdenum disulfide" was also presented at the conference. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's contribution to nanotechnology research and its students' participation in international scientific events.
KAUST has acquired a BM Pro plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PE-CVD) reactor from AIXTRON for wafer-scale deposition of graphene and carbon nanotubes. The reactor, capable of handling up to 4-inch substrates, will be used by Professor Pedro Da Costa's research team initially, before being opened up to other researchers at KAUST. AIXTRON's VP highlighted the system's uniformity, scalability, rapid heating, and plasma-based processing for growing graphene and nanotubes. Why it matters: This advanced tool enhances KAUST's research capabilities in carbon nanostructures, positioning the university as a leading center for materials science and nanotechnology research in the region.
KAUST Ph.D. student Hui-Chun Fu and postdoctoral fellow Purushothaman Varadhan won awards at the 2018 NANO Conference in Hong Kong for their photoelectrochemical research. They received the Materials Today Rising Star Poster Award (Silver) and the NANO2018 Session Theme Poster Award. Their research focuses on converting solar energy into storable fuels like hydrogen through solar-driven water splitting. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's contributions to renewable energy research, crucial for the GCC's transition to sustainable energy sources.
KAUST's Functional Nanomaterials Laboratory (FuNL), led by Prof. Osman Bakr, focuses on synthesizing nanomaterials with novel optical, electronic, and magnetic properties for solar cells and other devices. The lab's research centers on controlling the size and composition of nanoparticles to optimize light absorption across different wavelengths. Unlike silicon-based solar cells, nanoparticle-based solar cells can be processed at low temperatures and potentially integrated with roll-to-roll printing. Why it matters: This research could lead to more efficient and versatile solar energy solutions, including printable photovoltaic thin films for buildings and flexible electronics.
KAUST startup Quantum Solutions manufactures quantum dots, semiconducting nanoparticles that emit light with controllable energy. These dots are being explored for applications including displays, photodetectors, and solar cells. Quantum dots can enhance the efficiency of silicon solar panels by absorbing infrared light. Why it matters: This highlights the potential of KAUST-incubated startups to contribute to advanced materials science and renewable energy technologies in the region.
KAUST Professor Hussain was awarded the Outstanding Young Texas Ex Award (OYTEX) by the University of Texas (UT). Hussain studied at UT from 2003-2005 and later founded KAUST's Integrated Nanotechnology Laboratory in 2009. His work includes 15 patents, 18 research awards, and recognition from Intel and Samsung. Why it matters: The award recognizes the impact of KAUST faculty and their contributions to nanotechnology research, highlighting KAUST's growing prominence in the field.