Khalifa University, ADNOC to organise programme to educate high school students on UAE’s oil and gas sector
Khalifa University’s Research and Innovation Day 2024 to Showcase Over 100 Innovative Projects, PhD Posters and Tech Startups
Event Explores Global Societal Impact of Intelligent Systems, Energy Transition and Advanced Communication Technologies
Khalifa University of Science and Technology today announced it will showcase its commitment to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship through a sample of activities comprising 60 innovative projects, 36 PhD research posters, and 10 technology startups at the Research and Innovation Day 2024, promoting knowledge exchange and exploring new frontiers in science, engineering, communication technology, and healthcare.
Scheduled to be held on 27 February at Khalifa University Main Campus, this multi-pronged event will feature an impressive project showcase that highlights some of the most innovative concepts. A key highlight will be the community and region-relevant startups incubated at Khalifa Innovation Center (KIC). Five themed display and demonstration zones will reflect Khalifa University’s research centers and their projects in ‘Managed Energy Transition’, ‘Sustainable and Secure Society’, ‘Health Longevity’, ‘Advanced Materials and Manufacturing’, and ‘Pervasive Digitalization’. Two introductory talks on Machine Intelligence and Energy Transition will lead into a panel discussion of the triple helix of education, industry and government in this time of transitions for sustainability.
Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President, Khalifa University, said: “Our Research and Innovation Day marks the month-long UAE Innovates 2024, highlighting the University’s commitment to nurturing critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow. The commercialization of key startups not only reflects our research-driven and innovative environment, but our consistent contribution to furthering the UAE’s industries and economy. We are excited to provide this platform that showcases some of our projects and PhD research posters reflecting our creative excellence, ranging widely from such topics as aerospace technology, predictive and preventive medical practices, sustainable water treatment, robotic manipulation, and new frontiers in the exploration of Mars’ atmosphere.”
A segment on alumni recognition will celebrate the outstanding achievements of Khalifa University’s diverse and inclusive community, which comprises a total of 8,443 alumni, representing 98 nationalities.
As a finale, marking the day, there will be six illustrative “pitch” presentations of start-up ventures – in healthcare technology, autonomous vehicles, drones and robotics, and data analytics – emanating from research and innovation at Khalifa University.
Alisha Roy
Science Writer
22 February 2024
Siemens Energy inaugurates global innovation center partnership with ADIO and Khalifa University
Siemens Energy has inaugurated a global innovation center at Khalifa University of Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi, as part of its efforts to accelerate the journey to net zero in the region and globally. The center will develop new partnerships, technologies and co-create research opportunities, hereby promoting knowledge transfer, capacity building, and employment prospects.
The Innovation Center will provide a dedicated workforce for focused execution of Siemens Energy’s Research & Development projects and make best use of the company’s regional partnering ecosystems, including external funding opportunities, academia, start-ups, and industrial partners.
Located within Khalifa University’s Sas Al Nakhl Campus, the Siemens Energy Abu Dhabi Innovation Center was established in partnership with Khalifa University and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) – the government agency responsible for supporting the growth of Abu Dhabi’s economy by attracting innovative companies in high-growth economic sectors aligned with the Emirate’s long-term vision. Abu Dhabi’s attractive investment environment, enabling regulations, stability and security, access to talent, livability, cutting-edge infrastructure, and connectivity make it an ideal location for the Innovation Center.
Abu Dhabi has also made an unwavering commitment to its climate change strategy which is evident in its projected 22% reduction in carbon emissions by 2027. This ambitious goal strengthens the Emirate’s position as a key player in regional sustainability efforts. Recently, and in line with the UAE’s Net Zero commitment, Abu Dhabi’s Department of Energy (DoE), ADIO and Masdar, signed a trilateral agreement to accelerate the hydrogen economy in Abu Dhabi. By connecting production centers, offtakes, and H2 storage across the UAE, the collaboration provides a landmark opportunity to deploy shared hydrogen infrastructure that generates economies of scale and creates a world-class production and export hub for clean hydrogen and its derivatives, enabling further decarbonization of hard-to-abate sectors.
In addition to supporting knowledge transfer and developing new commercial solutions, the Innovation Center will strengthen specialized skillsets and aims to create 75 high-skilled jobs in Abu Dhabi by 2025. Siemens Energy will also offer at least 6 internships annually to students from Abu Dhabi universities, of which 50% will be Emiratis.
The inauguration of the Innovation Center was attended by H.E. Homaid Al Shimmari, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Khalifa University, Deputy Group CEO and Chief Corporate & Human Capital Officer, Mubadala; H.E. Anas Al Barguthi, Chief Operating Officer, ADQ – Abu Dhabi Development Holding Company; Professor Dr Mohamed Baniyas, Higher Education Advisor & Director of Commission for Academic Accreditation, Ministry of Education; and Ambassador Alexander Schoenfelder, German Embassy.
Dr. Fahad Al Yafei, Chief Technology Officer of Siemens Energy Technology and Innovation Center in Abu Dhabi, said: “To accelerate decarbonization we need to leverage partnership and innovation. As one of four globally, this Abu Dhabi-based Siemens Energy Innovation Center, in collaboration with ADIO and Khalifa University, will enable us to leverage the rich industrial ecosystem in Abu Dhabi as well as the wider Middle East. Together, we will work with customers, startups, academia, as well as public and private companies to develop and commercialize new technologies that will make a meaningful contribution to reaching Net Zero as soon as possible”.
Badr Al-Olama, Director General of ADIO, said: “We are proud to be partnering with Siemens Energy to accelerate the journey to net zero in the UAE and beyond. Decarbonization is a global challenge, one that requires true collaboration and a joint effort to tackle. As Abu Dhabi continues to spearhead key sustainability-focused initiatives, the new Siemens Energy Innovation Center will unlock opportunities across the UAE and the regional ecosystem, driving innovative solutions towards global energy transition.”
Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, said: “We are delighted to join with Siemens Energy and ADIO to inaugurate the Innovation Center – Abu Dhabi at our SAN Campus, to develop UAE’s human capital, offer internships, advance technology developments, and create high-skilled jobs. This partnership, bringing together a consistently top-ranked research-intensive institution and innovation focused university, and a global industry leader in energy technology and ADIO, the government hub supporting investment in Abu Dhabi, is designed to promote efficient energy solutions through research translation and associated talent development, advancing innovation in decarbonization and sustainability. This Center will contribute to developing solutions to energy challenges and at the same time embed yet further our culture of research, innovation, and enterprise.”
Plans for the Siemens Energy Innovation center were formally initiated in October 2022. In November 2022, on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC), plans were accelerated when Khalifa University and Siemens Energy signed a ‘teaming agreement’ to provide a dedicated location for the Innovation Center at the university’s campus.
The Abu Dhabi location marks Siemens Energy’s fourth global Innovation Center, with the others located in Berlin, Orlando, and Shenzhen. These innovation centers provide Siemens Energy with the ability to improve the speed and efficiency of technology deployment and target innovation efforts where they will have the greatest impact.
Highlighting the importance of innovation in the energy transition, it is estimated that up to 45% of all emissions savings in 2050 will come from technologies that have not yet reached the market. Siemens Energy’s innovation strategy focuses on changing this by transforming ideas into reality and creating an ecosystem in which the technologies with the greatest potential to drive the energy transition will flourish. This is achieved by building our capabilities through R&D and co-creating with partners to unlock synergies and find new solutions to problems.
Two Faculty Members Receive Top Honors at Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Environmental Award
Trophy, and Certificate of Merit for Dr. Emad Alhseinat and Dr. Maryam Al Shehhi
Two faculty members from Khalifa University have won the first and second place at the Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Environmental Award – First Cycle, a prestigious accolade that recognizes individuals and organizations committed to protecting the environment and encourages them to lead with innovative environmental solutions.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), presented the Environmental Research Projects Awards to Dr. Emad Alhseinat and Dr. Maryam R. Al Shehhi. The Awards acknowledge the best research in environmental sustainability conducted by research institutions or scholars located in Abu Dhabi.
In the ‘Environment Research Projects Award’ category, the first prize was awarded to Dr. Emad Alhseinat, Associate Professor, Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, for his project, ‘Harvesting of Clean Energy by Mixing Wastewater Streams with Different Salinities for Sustainable Water Treatment and Water Aquifer Recharging’ funded by ADEK. The second prize went to Dr. Maryam R. Al Shehhi, Assistant Professor, Civil Infrastructure and Environmental Engineering, for her project, ‘Monitoring the Water Quality of the Arabian Gulf from Space,’ funded by Khalifa University.
The two Khalifa University faculty received a trophy, and certificate of merit. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to share their success stories and exceptional performance with others through awareness and training sessions organized by the Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Environmental Award over the next 12 months.
Dr. Alhseinat said: “I am honored to receive the first place in the Environmental Research Projects Award. In the UAE, several brine water streams with two to ten times the salinity of seawater are generated from desalination plants and during oil and gas production, as well as by other industries. These streams are considered waste streams, yet they contain untapped energy that, if extracted, could reduce the cost of the treatment and facilitate the reuse of such complex water sources.
“At Khalifa University, we are developing ion-selective membranes that will allow for improving the efficiency of energy extraction from very complex water streams such as oil and gas-produced water. Moreover, our lab is exploring the possibility of using treated oil and gas-produced water for recharging the underground water aquifer in Abu Dhabi.”
Dr. Alhseinat has so far published three papers with two invention disclosures under preparation, and Dr. Al Shehhi has published three papers.
Dr. Al Shehhi said: “I am delighted and truly honored to receive the prestigious award. My project focuses on monitoring the Arabian Gulf waters from space, which is a significant alternative solution to conventional methods that are economically-unviable. Satellite remote sensing has been increasingly used as a complementary source of information to in situ monitoring networks and, in many cases, is the only feasible source.
“Satellite‐based sensors are now capable of directly and indirectly measuring nearly all components of the waters including its physical and biogeochemical properties. Several ocean color satellite missions were launched to serve the application of monitoring the ocean, including MODIS, MERIS, VIIRS, SeaWiFs, and LandSat. Rather than temporary observations, the advantages of these satellites are their high temporal resolution and the large coverage, enabling the study of the physics of backscattering and absorption of the Arabian Gulf waters.”
The Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Environmental Award honors those who promote environmental sustainability and achieve sustainable development.
Alisha Roy
Science Writer
16 February 2024
Designing Effective Corrosion Inhibitors
Unravelling the complex world of corrosion inhibitors requires an understanding of the role of chemical substituents.
Corrosion is a pervasive issue in many industries, often leading to significant material degradation and economic loss. The strategic use of corrosion inhibitors, chemicals that reduce corrosion rates without significantly altering corrosive components, is vital in combating this challenge. A team of researchers, including Khalifa University’s Dr. Chandrabhan Verma and Prof. Akram Alfantazi, has investigated the nuanced roles of chemical substituents in enhancing the effectiveness of these inhibitors.
Their findings were published in Coordination Chemistry Reviews, a top 1% journal for physical and theoretical chemistry.
“Trillions of dollars are spent yearly on corrosion-related costs, including upkeep, repairs, and early replacement of damaged assets and infrastructure,” Dr. Verma says. “The damage to steel buildings and infrastructure caused by corrosion in its various forms is expected to cost the world economy U.S.$3 trillion annually. Fortunately, existing techniques such as coatings and corrosion inhibitors could save up to 35 percent of the cost of corrosion.”
Corrosion inhibitors are essential in slowing metal deterioration across industries, from construction to historical preservation. They are classified into inorganic and organic types. Inorganic corrosion inhibitors (e.g. phosphates, molybdates, and chromates) create passive oxide layers on the surface that act as barriers). Organic inhibitors form a protective film on metal surfaces by chemically reacting with the metal. Their effectiveness largely hinges on their chemical substituents. The capacity of substituents to donate and withdraw electrons to modify the inhibitor molecule’s electronic characteristics makes them important in the design of corrosion inhibitors. The inhibitor’s electronic structure can be adjusted through the thoughtful addition of these substituents, improving its reactivity and corrosion inhibition potential. These functional groups, varying in electron-donating or withdrawing characteristics, influence the inhibitor’s ability to bond with the metal surface, dictating the overall protective efficacy.
“One of the most efficient strategies for preventing corrosion nowadays is using organic chemicals, especially heterocyclic compounds,” Dr. Verma says. “Not all organic molecules with polar functional groups effectively prevent corrosion. To be effective, inhibitors must possess some particular structural and physiochemical characteristics. Beneficial structural characteristics of effective corrosion inhibitors include functional groups with a strong affinity for binding metal, the capacity to build protective layers on metal surfaces, and chemical stability in challenging conditions. Solubility is one of the most important considerations when selecting an organic inhibitor, and the adoption of green approaches for corrosion protection has become increasingly important due to growing interest in sustainable development.” High solubility in the corrosive environment is essential for effective corrosion inhibitors to guarantee uniform dispersion and long-lasting protection on metal surfaces.
The design of effective corrosion inhibitors is a nuanced science involving the careful selection and combination of substituents. Researchers can tailor inhibitors to specific materials and environments by manipulating these components, optimizing their protective capabilities. This requires an understanding of the principles guiding their design.
The research team considered the significance of the Hammett and Taft equations, and related constants, on the inhibition efficiency of organic compounds. The Hammett and Taft equations help guide the design corrosion inhibitors by offering a quantitative understanding of substituents’ spatial and electronic effects on the reaction rates and reaction equilibria of organic compounds. By illuminating the structure-activity relationship, these equations aid in developing corrosion inhibitors with the best possible chemical characteristics. Through the correlation of molecular structures with inhibitory performance, scientists can optimize the qualities of inhibitors and increase their efficacy in reducing corrosion under various environmental conditions.
“The Hammett equation is a valuable tool in organic chemistry for describing the electronic impact of substituents on the rate and equilibrium of organic reactions,” Dr. Verma says. “The Taft equation is a modification to the Hammett equation and describes the reaction mechanisms for aliphatic organic compounds with consideration of steric, or spatial, effects.”
While many studies have observed the substituents effect, a comprehensive description integrating Hammett and Taft equations is needed as they reflect the electronic nature of substituents and are essential in understanding the potential of an inhibitor. A thorough understanding of these mechanisms is crucial for developing more effective, environmentally friendly inhibitors.
Jade Sterling
Science Writer
14 February 2024
Sustainable Supply Chain Management for Rare Earth Elements Using Blockchain
Khalifa University research team develops a blockchain solution to enhance the accountability and integrity of the rare earth element supply chain in photovoltaic manufacturing
Solar energy has emerged as the most cost-effective and mature form of renewable energy in many parts of the world and is therefore expected to significantly contribute to the global shift away from reliance on hydrocarbons and fossil fuels. Solar energy is harvested by photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, which are made of cells, which themselves are made of semiconductor minerals.
Certain thin-film solar technologies rely on materials such as gallium, indium, and tellurium, which presents several challenges. While these elements are used in other technologies like smartphones, they are also subject to geopolitical and market arising from scarcity, rarity, difficulty of mining, and/or concentration in specific regions. The monopolization of their supply and processing by relatively few countries, particularly China, raises concerns about sustainability, ethical labor practices, and supply chain vulnerabilities, especially since there are no direct substitutes.
Sustainable supply chain management and responsible sourcing are crucial strategies in mitigating these challenges. A team of researchers from Khalifa University has developed a blockchain-based solution to safeguard the supply chain of thin-film solar PVs. Their solution leverages the intrinsic decentralized blockchain properties of traceability, transparency, and accountability in the supply chain, as well as safeguarding the ethical conditions of workers during mining. The team included: Assia Chadly, Research Associate, Haya Hasan, Research Associate; Karim Moawad, Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant, Prof. Mohammed Omar, Dr. Ahmad Mayyas, Assistant Professor, all Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering; and Prof. Khaled Salah, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.
Their results were published in the Journal of Cleaner Production, a top 1% journal.
“The supply chain of rare earth metals is often characterized by opacity, inefficiencies, and security concerns,” Dr. Mayyas says. “Also, the certificates covering solar PVs are purely technical and fail to consider ethical sourcing and sustainable supply chain management conditions of mining. Our solution paves the way to ethical mining where these certificates are not granted unless both technical and ethical conditions are met.”
Blockchain technology offers an immutable and tamper-proof ledger of data and transactions as a shared database, validated by a wide community. Each record created forms a block, and as each block is confirmed by the community, it is paired up with the previous entry in the chain, creating a chain of blocks. Blockchain technology, with its decentralized and transparent nature, could be a pivotal tool in enhancing sustainable supply chain management, ensuring that REEs are sourced responsibly and ethically. Using this technology, the entire supply chain can track the conditions of mining sites, verify labor practices, and certify the authenticity of the materials used in solar PVs. The solution ensures that the manufactured thin-films respect the ethical mining conditions as much as the technical ones, and guarantees both certificates prior to distribution to end customers.
“Smart contracts enable the on-chain traceability of the registration, manufacturing, assessment, delivery, and disposal of solar PVs,” Dr. Mayyas says. “The blockchain solution ensures that every piece of information at every stage of the supply chain is well-recorded. It also ensures the commitment of the main actors involved in the supply chain as all of them are held accountable for their actions. Since all stages of the supply chain including mining, production, and manufacturing are on-chain, it is easy to trace back every stage to its source.”
The team’s proposed blockchain solution provides traceability from the mine to the end user, encompassing several features, including compliance with ethical mining standards, accountability, and certification. Future enhancements could include a comprehensive system for managing the end-of-life for PVs, beyond simple recycling; incorporating inventory management for optimization; and implementing a system of rewards and sanctions on the blockchain by certification authorities to encourage adherence to ethical practices.
Jade Sterling
Science Writer
14 February 2024
Khalifa University Launches First ‘Arabic for Beginners’ Specialization on Coursera
Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) Specialization Developed by Khalifa University Meets Professional Needs of Over 129 million Coursera Learners
Khalifa University of Science and Technology today announced the debut of the ‘Arabic for Beginners’ specialization on the leading online global platform Coursera, to further expand educational opportunities for learners worldwide.
For the first time, the collaboration between Khalifa University and Coursera will enable 129 million learners across the globe to learn conversational Arabic and meet their professional development goals. This specialization, which has English as the medium of instruction, is asynchronous and automated, and not only promotes self-learning and provides a seamless and flexible learning experience, but provides an opportunity for learners to work and communicate in an Arabic speaking environment.
Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University, said: “Khalifa University’s collaboration with Coursera represents a significant milestone extending access to professional education at any place and at any time. We are excited to launch the region’s latest specialization in the Arabic language curated by our world-class faculty offering open access to global learners through online platforms. Learners and non-native speakers worldwide can now delve into culturally contextualized topics and genuinely appreciate the rich language. This strategic partnership, which is in line with our goals of equipping learners in the region with the necessary scientific and language skills, also contributes to the UAE’s accelerating knowledge economy.”
As a leading institution in the Arab world, it is only natural for Khalifa University to pioneer in sharing expertise in Arabic with the global community and reach learners from various societies who are keen to explore Arabic, its heritage, and its implications in today’s world. Spoken by more than 350 million globally, the role of Arabic language increases in significance both in the academic and business realms, making its study the logical extension for any interested individual.
This collaboration with Coursera and the launch of the specialization also aligns with three of the 17 the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) – ‘Quality Education (SDG-4)’, ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG-8)’, as well as ‘Partnerships for the Goals (SDG-17).
The Arabic for Beginners Specialization is tailored for learners with no or little prior Arabic knowledge; this comprehensive specialization covers the phonetics of the Arabic language,nuances between feminine and masculine language specifics, and practical communication skills, through audiovisual aids and group discussions.
Khalifa University is also working with its world class facultyfrom both the College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences and the College of Medicine and Health Sciences (KU CMHS) to develop two more specializations: Intelligent Systems for Executives, and Deep Learning. These courses, which will be taught by faculty experts, aim to promote Khalifa University’s global and online presence as an outreach to learners worldwide. Learners who successfully complete Khalifa University’s Arabic for Beginners specialization on the Coursera platform will also receive unique certificates that bear the distinctive signature in Arabic and include a verification link for authentication.
Alisha Roy
Science Writer
8 February 2024
Exploring New Frontiers in Hydrogen Production
New study highlights the techno-economic and environmental assessment of hydrogen production from gas processing byproduct
Hydrogen has emerged as a potential solution to the world’s energy needs with experts predicting a surge in demand — from 90 million tons in 2020 to potentially 500 million tons or more by 2050. However, current production capabilities are lagging far behind these targets.
A team of researchers from Khalifa University’s Research and Innovation Center on CO2 and Hydrogen (RICH) has investigated the techno-economic feasibility and lifecycle environmental impacts of large-scale hydrogen production from methane and hydrogen sulfide. Prof. Lourdes Vega, Dr. Ahmed AlHajaj, Assistant Professor, Dr. Ismail Alkhatib, Postdoctoral Fellow, and Sawsan Ali, PhD student, focused on hydrogen sulfide-based thermal non-catalytic hydrogen production processes and benchmarked them against conventional and emerging processes using methane.
Their findings underscore the nuanced and dynamic nature of hydrogen production at scale and were published in the Journal of Cleaner Production, a top 1% journal.
“A transition towards a hydrogen-supported global energy economy is one of the solutions to ensuring affordable and clean energy, while also increasing climate action mitigating the impacts of climate change,” Prof. Vega says.
Hydrogen has no direct carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions when used as fuel and can act as an energy storage solution in combination with renewable energy. It also has great potential as fuel in hard-to-abate industries such as heavy transportation, chemicals and steel manufacturing. The research team aims to shed light on the journey towards a hydrogen-supported energy economy by comparing the cost and performance of various hydrogen production technologies.
“Despite momentum for incorporating hydrogen into the energy nexus, existing production capacities are far from those required, making the next decade crucial for ensuring the production and use of low carbon hydrogen,” Prof. Vega says. “This requires facilitating scale-up of production capacities and revamping current technologies in industrial sectors targeted for hydrogen use.”
Several processes and technologies already exist for hydrogen production with varying levels of efficiency, cost, and environmental impact. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), over 95 % of current hydrogen production is fossil-fuel based, with nearly 72 percent of the global hydrogen production in 2020 obtained using steam methane reforming (SMR) from natural gas, without capturing any carbon dioxide. SMR is currently the most commercially viable option for hydrogen production but this comes at the expense of high direct CO2 emissions, accounting for 2.5 percent of all CO2 emissions in 2020.
Hydrogen sulfide-based hydrogen production may be a promising alternative and compliment other low-carbon means of hydrogen production, such as water electrolysis with renewable energy. Hydrogen sulfide is often seen as a problematic byproduct of gas processing, but new hydrogen production technologies can convert hydrogen sulfide into low or zero-carbon hydrogen, and obtain sulfur as a byproduct.
From an environmental perspective, the life cycle assessment highlights the lower global warming potential of emerging processes like methane pyrolysis. This is largely due to the absence of direct CO2 emissions, but these processes do have higher water intensity due to increased cooling requirements.
“Although the results of this work are very promising, it’s crucial to note that they hinge on specific assumptions, including thermodynamic considerations for each process studied,” Prof. Vega says. “Future research will need to explore the role of reaction kinetics and catalytic reaction routes to provide a more comprehensive picture. Then large scale demonstrations will be needed for industrial implementation.”
Jade Sterling
Science Writer
7 February 2024
Khalifa University CMHS Showcasing Range of Healthcare and Life Sciences Research at Arab Health 2024
Virtual Tour of Region’s First Body Museum, Flexible Hydrogel Base Electrode, 3D Printed Prototype of Knee Component, and 3D Bioprinter Enthrall Visitors and Guests
A diverse range of healthcare and life sciences research projects including a startup from Khalifa University’s College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) were featured at Arab Health 2024, the 49th edition of the leading medical equipment exhibition in the Middle East.
Khalifa University presented a flexible hydrogel base electrode that can record electrophysiology signals, a novel 3D printed prototype of human knee femoral component, and a custom, easy-to-use, air pressure-powered, single-nozzle frugal 3D bio-printer capable of fabricating artificial tissues and organoids in the lab that can also be used in research. In addition, Swift Biomed, a startup from Khalifa Innovation Center (KIC) that aims to develop compact, portable and rapid diagnostics devices for detection of infectious diseases, was showcased at the event. Also at the stand was a virtual tour of the Body Museum by Body Worlds, which explores how disease and aging affect the human body.
Dr. Habiba Alsafar, Dean, Khalifa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Professor, Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, said: “Our projects on display at Arab Health 2024 stand testimony to the innovative research in medicine and life sciences, and biotechnology that highlight the advancements in UAE’s established and growing healthcare ecosystem to transform patient care and diagnostics. The products that we bring to the market also testify Khalifa University’s commitment to encourage healthcare startups and promote avenues that assist in healthy aging.”
A virtual tour of the Body Museum at Khalifa University’s CMHS, the UAE’s first permanent exposition of ‘plastinated’ and dissected human bodies, also inspired medicine, health, and life sciences among students, young professionals, and visitors. The virtual tour shed light on the effects of lifestyle diseases and pathological processes on human organs. This promotes awareness amongst both young and old alike to adopt healthier lifestyles and make choices that safeguard their well-being.
The projects on display at Arab Health 2024 illustrated the advanced academic, healthcare, and life sciences endeavors at Khalifa University. The flexible hydrogel base electrode that can record electrophysiology signals, provides precise monitoring and analysis of the body’s electrical signals through natural material instead of metal electrodes, benefiting the environment and society. This device’s biocompatibility improves patient wellbeing and quality of life, while providing the basis for next-generation wearables and noninvasive technologies.
Another project, the novel 3D printed prototype of the human knee femoral component, transforms knee replacement surgery offering greater mobility, comfort, and longevity. These individualized knee implants alleviate pain and restores activity positively impacting patients’ lives.
The custom, easy-to-use, air pressure-powered, single-nozzle frugal 3D bio-printer is capable of fabricating artificial tissues and organoids in the lab that can also be used in research. This bioprinter that fabricates creates three-dimensional living tissue structures by depositing cells layer-by-layer, facilitating gentle and accurate printing for optimal cell viability.
The Khalifa Innovation Center (KIC) startup, Swift Biomed, aims to develop compact, portable and rapid diagnostics devices for detection of infectious diseases like COVID-19, Malaria, Tuberculosis and other biological testing.
Khalifa University’s CMHS is the only graduate program modeled after the North American system with 266 PubMed papers and has received the UAE’s first dual US accreditation for its Simulation Center. The MD program is offered in five curricular strands including Biomedical Science, Clinical Medicine, Medicine and Society, Physicianship, Research, Technology, and Innovation. Its Balsam community-based program claimed the QS Reimagine Education ‘Gold’ award in 2023. The CMHS is equipped with Research Labs, Dry Labs, Imaging Center, Instructional Studio, Preparation Room, Webinar Room, and Anatomical Pathology Lab.
Alisha Roy
Science Writer
7 February 2024
New Algorithm to Predict Hydrogen Storage Underground
New model harnesses machine learning to efficiently predict hydrogen adsorption in shale gas formations, will save significant time in planning underground hydrogen storage
Hydrogen is a promising clean fuel alternative, but its storage poses problems for large-scale use. There is potential for underground hydrogen storage, but researchers need to be able to predict how much it is possible to store in various locations. To make this process quicker and more accurate, a team of researchers including Khalifa University’s Dr. Shams Kalam, Postdoctoral Fellow, and Dr. Muhammad Arif, Assistant Professor, developed a mathematical equation to predict hydrogen adsorption in shale. Drs. Kalam and Arif collaborated with researchers from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia; and University Teknologi Petronas, Malaysia.
Their results were published in the International Journal of Coal Geology, a top 1% journal for stratigraphy.
“Hydrogen has seen remarkable interest lately from the global energy community as a clean fuel,” Dr. Kalam says. “It is an abundant and renewable energy carrier, addresses future low-carbon requirements, reduces dependence on hydrocarbons, and provides both environmental and strategic advantages. Its use requires storage, and we can store hydrogen underground.”
One of the key strategies in harnessing hydrogen’s potential is underground storage in sedimentary formations — in depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs, aquifers, and even decommissioned wellbores. However, challenges persist. Hydrogen is highly compressible and volatile, demanding large storage volumes and raising concerns about leakage and safety.
The researchers point out that while coal bed methane and shale gas reservoirs have traditionally been exploited for natural gas production, they can also be used to store hydrogen. Shale in particular offers high adsorption rates even at low temperatures, and therefore could store large volumes of hydrogen via adsorption trapping in a safe manner.
Almost 32 percent of global natural gas reserves are shale, which is composed of layers of sedimentary rock and organic material known as kerogen. They could be the ideal storage places for large volumes of hydrogen (though the limitations do exist in terms of injectivity of hydrogen in these formations), but predicting hydrogen adsorption in these formations is a complex and time-consuming task, involving detailed laboratory experiments and molecular simulations.
The research team’s new data-driven model uses gradient boosting regression and data from previous studies to predict hydrogen adsorption on kerogen in shales. The model is informed by various parameters like pressure, temperature, and kerogen density, and offers a quick and accurate estimation of hydrogen adsorption in a potential site. The model was compared with other machine learning methods and proved to be the most accurate, especially for different types of shale.
“Machine learning has been extensively applied to develop a model for the prediction of different processes and mechanisms, but less attention has been given to modeling the adsorption of hydrogen in shale for an easy and accurate estimation,” Dr. Kalam says.
While this model is a significant advancement, it’s important to note that it’s just one piece of the larger puzzle. Other factors like diffusivity, permeability, and geo-mechanical characteristics also play a crucial role in the effective underground storage of hydrogen. Future research in these areas is essential to fully unlock the potential of hydrogen storage in shale formations.
Jade Sterling
Science Writer
7 February 2024
Khalifa University and ELT Group Sign MoU to Establish Center of Excellence in Electromagnetic Spectrum Applications in Abu Dhabi
Latest Generation of Electromagnetic Spectrum Equipment Simulated Allowing Khalifa University Students to Apply in Research Studies
The ELT group and Khalifa University of Science and Technology today announced they have signed an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) to expand the knowledge of the management of the Electromagnetic Spectrum in the UAE.
The MoU was signed by Dr. Ebrahim Al Hajri, Senior Vice‐President, Support Services, Khalifa University, and Paolo Izzo, Senior Vice‐President, Chief Sales Officer, ELT Group.
The main objectives of this cooperation will be the collaboration in the areas of academic research and teaching, in accordance with Khalifa University’s mandate, in the field of EMS Electromagnetic Spectrum (EMS) Application, with a view to enhance the skills and knowledge of human capital at Khalifa University and within the UAE. The EMS application Centre of excellence will be a digital laboratory gymnasium where the latest generation of electromagnetic spectrum equipment are simulated allowing Khalifa University students to apply it to their studies.
Dr. Ebrahim Al Hajri, SVP, Support Services, and Associate Professor, Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, Khalifa University, said: “We are delighted to partner with the ELT Group in establishing the Center of Excellence for the Electro-Magnetic Spectrum Applications (EMSA) at Khalifa University. Khalifa University within its faculty, has considerable specialist experience in this area. We believe this MoU will pave the way further to expand our activities and associated programs, and develop our laboratory capabilities through state-of-the-art equipment available to students and researchers.”
Enzo Benigni, President and CEO, ELT Group, said: “ It is my pleasure to sign this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Khalifa University of Science and Technology in order to establish a Center of Excellence for the Electro-Magnetic Spectrum Application. I’m deeply impressed by this exceptional establishment in Abu Dhabi, distinguished by its world-class facilities. Its firm commitment to innovation is pivotal in transforming both Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates into leading innovation hubs of ingenuity and progress. The signature of Memorandum of Understanding is a concrete sign of our intent to impart our 70 years of experience to new generations of Emirati engineers. Khalifa University students will have access to a digital laboratory gymnasium where the latest generation of electromagnetic spectrum equipment are simulated, enabling them to excel in the marketplace related to EMS application, with advanced academic and practical certification paths.”
ELT Group has a long history of collaboration with the United Arab Emirates established in the early 1990s when it started offering cutting-edge products across the fields of Electronic Warfare (EW) to support the country’s defense capabilities. The company’s presence in the country for over 40 years has contributed to the growth of technologies and skills actively cooperating with the Armed Forces.
The signing of this MoU is an opportunity for ELT to enrich Khalifa University engineers capabilities in the area of Electromagnetic Spectrum applications, to enhance the ingenuity and the progress of Khalifa University noticeable as a world-class leading innovation hub.
Globally-ranked Khalifa University excels in research and innovation in ESMA with researchers making progress towards a new way of generating terahertz radiation at room temperature, which could be useful for detecting toxic gases, explosives, and even diseases.
In another significant achievement, a Khalifa University researcher recently received the Young Scientist Award from the Union Radio-Scientifique Internationale during the 35th General Assembly and Scientific Symposium (URSI GASS) 2023 for her work on the significance of kappa distributed electrons, on electrostatic solitary waves (ESW) in the magnetosphere of planet Saturn. The award recognizes young individuals – less than 35 years of age – who have made innovative contributions and discoveries in multidisciplinary research related to radio science, which is the study of all aspects of electromagnetic fields and waves.
Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
7 February 2024
Khalifa University’s Fifth Cohort of National Service and Reserve Authority Al Nokhba Students Graduate
Graduates Worked on Projects in Aerospace, Smart Robotics Systems, Data Science, Biotechnology, Advanced Water Technologies, Information and Communications, and Nuclear Energy
Khalifa University of Science and Technology today announced the fifth cohort of National Service and Reserve Authority (NSRA) recruits received their graduation honors after successfully concluding their intense months-long training in the research and development of advanced sustainable technologies, building foundational knowledge and hands-on skills in the fields of robotics, smart systems, communications, environment, and energy.
The graduation ceremony was attended by Brigadier Khalifa Hamad Khalifa Al Kaabi, Chief, National Service and Reserve Authority, Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President, Khalifa University, senior officials from NSRA, Khalifa University leadership, as well as dignitaries and guests.
Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University, said: “Khalifa University is proud to graduate the NSRA students and we congratulate them for their success and achievements. This graduation ceremony and the Al Nokhba program reflect the expanding cooperation between Khalifa University and the NSRA in academic, scientific and research areas. We believe the Al Nkhba graduates will be able to effectively apply technical, theoretical and practical solutions based on the latest technologies, for the benefit of the UAE, and the community in general.”
Khalifa University’s unique Al Nokhba program launched in partnership with the NSRA in 2019 has graduated many students with their contributions being expected to support decision-making and enhance performance efficiency in the UAE defense sector. During their program the Al Nokhba students completed their training courses, research projects and specific assignments, serving a dual purpose – building technical know-how, and serving as building blocks towards the assigned research and development tasks.
With support from Khalifa University faculty and staff, the Al Nokhba recruits worked on finding sustainable solutions to pressing environmental and societal challenges through their innovative projects which includes waste heat utilization, wheat landraces for sustainable food production, quantum-inspired algorithms for nuclear reactor physics, multimodal data analysis, and additive manufacturing of energy-absorbing plate lattice structures.
The graduates also developed technologies such as a 6U CubeSat technology demonstrator, smart membranes for water treatment, and upcycling of bio-wastes into sustainable materials. During the program, the Al Nokhba recruits actively engaged in research and development, while also creating solutions for the Maritime Grand Challenge 2024, representing the UAE and Khalifa University.
Moreover, the Al Nokhba recruits contributed to several R&D projects in autonomous driving including the resilient coordinated management of autonomous vehicles for defense applications. The development of a target drone to be used in training and testing for civilian and defense applications was also one of the projects undertaken by the fifth cohort of the Al Nokhba Program.
Other projects that the Al Nokhba recruits completed at Khalifa University include the ‘Trustworthy Traceability, Certification and Compliance of the Use and Origins of UAVs’ and Keratin-based hydrogels for the removal of heavy metals in produced wastewater. In February 2023, a group of UAE National Service Recruits (Al Nokhba-NSRs) presented several advanced technology defense-related innovations in robotics and drones that were showcased at the 16th edition of IDEX 2023.
The Al Nokhba program aims to prepare recruits for postgraduate studies by providing the participants with relevant coursework, and helps to strengthen the technical capabilities of UAE national engineers. It also enables representation of the UAE in international competitions, involvement in scientific research and publishing research findings at scientific forums. On the other hand, the research-intensive Elite program, which is focused on developing solutions to current challenges, targets university students, especially those graduating from the top universities in the world. Participants are allowed to take a subject from accredited graduate programs if they meet admission requirements.
Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
5 February 2024