Advancing membrane technology for more efficient hydrocarbon refining

Summary

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.