KAUST students and faculty attended the 2017 Materials Research Society (MRS) Spring Meeting & Exhibit in Phoenix, Arizona. KAUST students also participated in the 2016 MRS Fall Meeting & Exhibit in Boston, Massachusetts, where they organized seminars and workshops. Rahim Munir represented the KAUST student chapter at the Spring 2017 event, attending a luncheon to recap the Fall 2016 communication seminars. Why it matters: KAUST's strong presence in international materials science conferences highlights its commitment to advancing research and fostering collaboration in the field.
KAUST's Imaging and Characterization Core Lab (IAC) co-hosted a materials science optical microscopy workshop with Leica Microsystems. The workshop included hands-on training led by IAC staff scientist Ebtihaj Bukhari and Leica specialist Philippe Vignal. Researchers from KAUST, King Abdulaziz University (KAU), and Obeikan participated in the event. Why it matters: Such workshops contribute to developing local expertise in advanced materials science techniques, crucial for Saudi Arabia's industrial and research sectors.
TII has launched AMALLOY-HT, the first metal additive manufacturing alloy designed in the Middle East for harsh operating conditions. The new aluminum alloy powder is designed for use in Powder Bed Fusion – Laser Beam (PBF-LB) systems. AMALLOY-HT demonstrates excellent thermal stability, especially in high-temperature environments (up to 300°C). Why it matters: This advancement positions the UAE as a key player in additive manufacturing materials research and expands the range of 3D-printable high-strength metals, enabling new applications in aerospace, automotive, and energy.
KAUST researchers Yichen Cai and Jie Shen, led by Dr. Vincent Tung, are developing electronic skin (e-skin) using 2D materials like MXenes. Their research, published in Science Advances, focuses on mimicking human skin functions like sensing and adapting to stimuli. The team leverages the unique properties of 2D materials to create flexible and efficient electronic systems for next-generation electronics. Why it matters: This work advances materials science in the region, potentially enabling breakthroughs in flexible electronics, healthcare monitoring, and robotics.
Scimagine is a KAUST-based startup that provides a cloud-based platform for managing and storing experimental data for material scientists. The platform allows researchers to store, manage, and share their data, as well as create scientific visuals. It addresses the problem of experimental data being hidden in PDF files and not easily searchable. Why it matters: This platform improves data accessibility and collaboration in materials science research, potentially accelerating discovery and innovation in the field.
Technology Innovation Institute’s (TII) Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC) has launched the MENA region's first Impact Lab in Abu Dhabi. The lab will serve as a testing ground for advanced materials, laminates, and composites. It features equipment like a Universal Testing Machine and a Gas-Gun Projectile Launcher, the latter being the only one of its kind in the Middle East. Why it matters: The Impact Lab will accelerate the development and application of advanced materials technologies in the UAE and the broader MENA region, enhancing capabilities in industries ranging from aerospace to sports equipment.
KAUST researchers led by Prof. Omar Mohammed developed safer scintillation materials to improve X-ray imaging. A team led by Assoc. Prof. Yoji Kobayashi discovered a calcium-based catalyst that unexpectedly synthesizes ammonia. Why it matters: These research advancements from KAUST contribute to scientific innovation in materials science and sustainable chemical processes within the region.
KAUST hosted the Advanced Membranes and Porous Materials Center Research Conference from February 20-23. The conference focused on new materials for energy-intensive industrial separations. Experts, students, and researchers participated in presentations and poster sessions. Why it matters: Conferences like this promote collaboration and knowledge sharing in materials science, which is crucial for developing sustainable technologies in energy and other sectors within Saudi Arabia.