The Propulsion and Space Research Center (PSRC) has appointed three new advisors: Prof. Dr. Roberto Sabatini, Dr. Mohamed Al Ahbabi, and Prof. Dr. Pericles Pilidis. These experts bring experience in aerospace, defense, space exploration, and gas turbine performance. The appointments aim to strengthen PSRC's research capabilities and contribute to the UAE's space exploration goals. Why it matters: The addition of experienced advisors signals the UAE's continued investment in building local expertise in advanced aerospace technologies and space exploration.
This paper introduces a longitudinal control system for autonomous racing vehicles with combustion engines, translating trajectory-tracking commands into low-level vehicle controls like throttle, brake pressure, and gear selection. The modular design facilitates integration with various trajectory-tracking algorithms and vehicles. Experimental validation on the EAV24 racecar during the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League at Yas Marina Circuit demonstrated the system's effectiveness, achieving longitudinal accelerations up to 25 m/s². Why it matters: This research contributes to the advancement of autonomous racing technology in the region, showcasing practical applications in high-performance scenarios and fostering innovation in vehicle control systems.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) in Abu Dhabi has successfully designed, built, and test-fired the UAE’s first liquid rocket engine, a 250-newton thruster. The engine achieved combustion efficiencies of up to 94% during testing, with over 50 successful firings. The program aims to scale propulsion designs and develop advanced engine technologies. Why it matters: This milestone strengthens the UAE's sovereign space capabilities and enables the design of propulsion systems for orbital maneuvering and future space missions.
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.
Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) launched VentureOne, a commercialization arm to bring research solutions to market. ATRC also launched three new specialized research centers in Propulsion, Alternative Energy, and Biotechnology. This brings the total number of deep-tech research entities within ATRC to 10. Why it matters: This expansion signals a major investment in Abu Dhabi's advanced technology ecosystem, aiming to translate research into commercial products and attract global expertise.
KAUST researchers reviewed 570 papers on alcohol combustion dating back to the early 1900s, synthesizing existing knowledge and identifying gaps in the literature. They developed a model that simulates alcohol combustion, gathering specific aspects to better understand combustion in engines. The study revealed properties of alcohol fuels, including high resistance to autoignition and decreased particulate matter emissions, but also increased emissions of carcinogenic aldehydes. Why it matters: This comprehensive study provides valuable insights for designing more efficient internal combustion engines operating on alcohols and addresses implications for air quality regulations.
Mani Sarathy, an associate professor of chemical engineering, has been appointed Associate Director of the Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC) at KAUST. Sarathy is part of the University’s Physical Science and Engineering Division. The announcement did not detail specific research directions. Why it matters: This signals KAUST's continued investment in and focus on clean combustion research.