King’s election to the NAE can be attributed to his groundbreaking work in transport phenomena and biomedical engineering. His research has provided essential insights into how particles move, adhere, and behave in various biological systems. This foundational work has far-reaching implications, informing breakthroughs not only in the biomedical field but also in public health and environmental engineering as well. The translation of these scientific principles into practical applications highlights the vital role that engineering plays in advancing societal health and safety.

In addition to his research contributions, King has exhibited exceptional leadership in engineering education. He has dedicated his efforts to teaching and mentoring the next generation of engineers at the University of Virginia. His commitment to education reflects an understanding that the development of effective engineers goes hand in hand with rigorous academic inquiry. This ethos resonates with the overarching mission of UVA Engineering, which emphasizes the integration of in-depth research with significant societal impact.

King’s public service has further solidified his reputation as a leader in both academic and global public health initiatives. During the recent COVID-19 pandemic, he played a pivotal role in collaboration with the Gates Foundation and other global entities. His efforts were crucial in facilitating vaccine development and ensuring equitable distribution through innovative initiatives like COVAX. This global partnership demonstrated how engineering principles could be adapted and applied to meet urgent health challenges, ultimately connecting vaccine developers with necessary manufacturing capabilities and regulatory support.

Since joining UVA in 2007 after a remarkable 32-year tenure at Merck & Co., Inc., where he rose to the position of Senior Vice President and advisor to top executives, King has remained a driving force within both the academic and professional communities. His initial appointment as the Brenton S. Halsey Distinguished Visiting Professor provided him with a platform to share his storied experiences and knowledge with students and colleagues alike. His transition into a full-time educator, culminating in his appointment as professor of practice in 2013, underscores his enduring commitment to academic excellence and engineering practice.

King’s remarkable career is marked not only by his scholarly contributions but also by his deep-seated commitment to mentorship. He has been dedicated to fostering the growth of budding engineers and researchers, encouraging them to explore innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. This dedication further exemplifies the values instilled at UVA Engineering, which champions a holistic approach to engineering that combines technical prowess with a sense of societal responsibility.

The election to the National Academy of Engineering engages a rigorous peer-review process that underscores the high standards associated with this prestigious body. King will officially be inducted during the Academy’s annual meeting in October, an event that celebrates contributions to engineering that profoundly influence society. His induction will not only recognize his individual achievements but also highlight the collective impact of UVA alumni and their ongoing contributions to the engineering field.

Alongside King, another UVA alumnus, Anne Aunins, will also be inducted, both having dedicated their careers to advancements in the pharmaceutical industry. Their shared commitment to leveraging engineering principles for societal good mirrors the collaborative spirit of innovation that characterizes the broader UVA community. Additionally, several other recent inductees with deep ties to UVA’s chemical engineering program further exemplify the institution’s influence on the engineering landscape.

The contributions of King and his peers resonate within multiple facets of engineering practice, particularly in industries that stand on the frontline of health and safety. Their innovative approaches are paving the way for future developments that address significant challenges posed by current events, including global pandemics, environmental health crises, and the evolving needs of society at large. King’s lifelong commitment to research and education illustrates the vital connection between academic inquiry and practical application in the engineering profession.

As King prepares for his induction into the National Academy of Engineering, it is critical to acknowledge the weight of such accolades not merely as personal achievements but as reflections of the ongoing collaborative efforts among engineering professionals dedicated to advancing societal well-being. The mentorship and educational initiatives he undertakes ensure that the next generation is equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate an increasingly complex technological landscape, driving forward the potential for future innovations.

In conclusion, Michael L. King’s recent election to the National Academy of Engineering is a testament to his enduring legacy in the fields of engineering research, education, and public health. As he embarks on this new chapter and prepares for the formal induction ceremony, both his past contributions and future endeavors will undoubtedly continue to inspire educators, researchers, and practitioners alike, reinforcing the vital role of engineering in shaping a sustainable and healthy society.

Subject of Research: Transport phenomena and biomedical engineering
Article Title: Michael L. King Elected to National Academy of Engineering
News Publication Date: October 2023
Web References: Gates Foundation, COVAX
References: University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science
Image Credits: UVA Engineering

Keywords

A groundbreaking advancement emerges from a research team at the University of Delaware (UD), led by a zealous group of scientists tackling the issue of plastic waste with a novel approach. They have developed an innovative catalyst designed to enhance the conversion of plastic waste into liquid fuels more efficiently than conventional methods. Recent findings have been hailed as significant progress within the realm of chemical engineering, particularly in the field of sustainable energy. The researchers’ work is prominently featured in the esteemed journal Chem Catalysis, underlining its relevance and potential impact.

Upcycling presents a transformative opportunity to confront the plastic waste crisis. Rather than relegating plastics to the waste bin, upcycling treats them as valuable resources that can be transformed into useful products, specifically liquid fuels. This paradigm shift not only aims to combat the accumulating waste but also to foster the production of renewable energy. Senior author Dongxia Liu, a prominent chemical and biomolecular engineering professor at UD, emphasizes the urgency of this initiative by stating that leveraging waste for fuel creation is a pivotal step toward a sustainable future.

The technology at the heart of this innovation is hydrogenolysis, a chemical process wherein hydrogen gas interacts with catalysts to convert the polymers present in plastics into viable fuels. Although hydrogenolysis presents a promising route for upcycling, it has historically been hampered by challenges related to catalyst efficiency. The problem lies in the bulky nature of polymer molecules, which often struggle to interact with the active sites of traditional catalysts during the reaction process. Hence, a more refined approach was necessary for improved performance.

The UC research team has ingeniously explored the use of MXenes, a relatively recent class of two-dimensional nanomaterials, establishing them as promising candidates for catalysis in plastic upcycling. They ingeniously manipulated the structure of MXenes, creating mesoporous variants with larger, more accessible pores to facilitate the interaction between the catalyst, polymers, and gaseous reagents. This structural enhancement was a game-changer, allowing the molten plastic to traverse the catalyst more freely and effectively.

The researchers conducted thorough experiments utilizing mesoporous MXene-supported ruthenium catalyst, targeting low-density polyethylene (LDPE) – a type of plastic ubiquitous in shopping bags and plastic films. They meticulously combined LDPE with hydrogen gas and the tailored catalyst within a pressurized reactor, subjecting the mixture to elevated temperatures that facilitated the conversion process. Remarkably, their findings revealed that the novel catalyst achieved nearly double the reaction rates previously documented for LDPE hydrogenolysis, marking a significant milestone in the efficiency of this conversion process.

Beyond just speed, the performance of their catalyst was characterized by high selectivity. This aspect is crucial as it enables the targeted transformation of plastics into needed liquid fuels while simultaneously minimizing the production of less desirable byproducts, notably the greenhouse gas methane. This selectivity can be attributed to the unique stabilization of ruthenium nanoparticles within the mesoporous structure of MXenes, effectively enhancing catalytic activity and product quality.

The implications of this research extend well beyond academic curiosity; they signal a transformative potential for industries grappling with the ramifications of plastic pollution. Liu suggests that this work highlights the capacity of nanostructured catalysts to revolutionize not only plastic upcycling but also the broader scope of sustainable fuel development. He urges the importance of these advancements in addressing the ongoing environmental concerns associated with plastic waste.

Looking toward the future, the team plans to refine their mesoporous MXene catalyst and expand their library of MXene-based catalysts to accommodate a wider variety of plastic types. This pursuit is not merely an academic endeavor; it is envisioned as a collaborative effort bridging academia and industry, aimed at turning plastic waste into valuable resources. By fostering partnerships with industries, the researchers aspire to create economic value while also contributing towards environmental conservation, ensuring a dual benefit for local communities.

In addition to Liu, the research team comprises promising talents including Ali Kamali, a doctoral candidate who played a significant role in the research, along with other graduate students and faculty members from the University of Delaware’s Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. Collaborators from prestigious institutions like the University of Maryland College Park, U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory have also enriched this research agenda.

The work was executed under the auspices of the Center for Plastics Innovation, an Energy Frontier Research Center supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, reflecting a growing commitment to leveraging scientific research for practical, sustainable applications. The foundation of this endeavor rests on a profound understanding that innovative science can play a critical role in tackling complex global issues such as plastic pollution.

This research is an exhilarating glimpse into the future of environmental sustainability and energy resource management, marking a hopeful turn in the ongoing battle against plastic waste. As we look ahead, the convergence of scientific ingenuity and collaborative efforts will be paramount in transforming waste into resources, fostering a cleaner, more sustainable planet for future generations.

Through this study, the University of Delaware team has forged a pathway towards innovative waste management that could resonate through industries dealing with synthetic materials. Addressing the plastic pollution crisis can no longer be viewed as a peripheral concern; it necessitates an immediate, robust response rooted in scientific advancement and practical application.

As this narrative unfolds, it carries the weight of current plastic pollution realities while illuminating an optimistic solution grounded in research and innovation. Transforming waste into energy sources is not only desirable but essential in crafting a sustainable future, where plastics no longer threaten our ecosystems but serve as valuable commodities in a circular economy.

In conclusion, the findings from the University of Delaware signify a crucial step toward revolutionizing plastic waste management and energy production. The intersection of advanced materials science and sustainability presents a thrilling opportunity to redefine how we perceive and utilize plastic waste on a global scale. Moving forward, continued collaboration among researchers, industry players, and policymakers will be indispensable in realizing the full potential of these pioneering innovations.

Subject of Research: Upcycling Plastic Waste Using Innovative Catalysts
Article Title: Enhancing the Conversion of Plastic Waste into Liquid Fuels
News Publication Date: October 2023
Web References: Chem Catalysis DOI: 10.1016/j.checat.2025.101459
References: University of Delaware research team documentation
Image Credits: Kathy F. Atkinson/ University of Delaware

Keywords

Plastics, Upcycling, Hydrogenolysis, MXenes, Sustainable Energy, Environmental Protection, Liquid Fuels, Catalyst Efficiency, Chemical Engineering, Nanostructured Materials, Plastic Pollution, Renewable Resources.

The need for faster, more efficient transistors cannot be overstated as they form the backbone of modern electronic circuit architecture. These components act as essential regulators of electric current, similar to traffic signals, ensuring seamless operation during video streaming, gaming, and other applications. The technological community has long recognized that common classification divides transistors into two categories: n-type, characterized by superior electron transport, and p-type, which manage hole transport. However, until recently, achieving high-performance p-type transistors remained a daunting challenge, primarily due to their historical limitations in efficiency when compared to their n-type counterparts.

At the heart of the investigation lies a strikingly attractive candidate: tin-based perovskites. These materials are distinguished by their unique crystal structures that promise renewed vigor within the field of semiconductors. Conventionally, production methods for these materials have relied heavily on solution processing, reminiscent of the way ink permeates paper, which has hampered scalability and the consistency of electrical performance. Innovations within manufacturing processes are crucial as the demand for viable p-type options rises.

The research team, driven by a quest for technological relevance and sustainability, achieved a remarkable breakthrough by utilizing thermal evaporation for the formulation of caesium-tin-iodide (CsSnI3) semiconductor layers. This pivotal step departs from traditional fabrication methods, offering transformative advantages and aligning with practices already commonplace in industries such as organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display production. By vaporizing materials at elevated temperatures, the researchers are able to create high-quality thin films that facilitate superior transistor performance.

Moreover, through systematic experimentation, the team made an intriguing discovery. By introducing a precise quantity of lead chloride (PbCl2), they were able to substantially enhance both the uniformity and crystallinity of the perovskite thin films. These improvements are not mere incremental advancements; they led to the realization of transistors boasting hole mobility rates exceeding 30 cm²/V·s, alongside an astonishing on/off current ratio of 10⁸. Such parameters are on par with those exhibited by current commercial n-type oxide semiconductors, signaling a major leap forward in speed and power efficiency during operational conditions.

In addition to solidifying the efficiency metrics, the technology triumphantly addresses prior limitations associated with solution-based methods. Enhanced device stability and the potential to fabricate expansive arrays of devices stand out as significant milestones. This progress opens the door to manufacturing possibilities heretofore hampered by scalability issues, making it feasible to produce high-resolution electronic components over larger surfaces.

Remarkably, the compatibility of this new technology with pre-existing OLED production equipment eliminates substantial hurdles that would typically arise during technology integration. This compatibility implies substantial reductions in production costs and optimizes overall manufacturing timelines, crucial for remaining competitively viable in this fast-paced industry. Immense potential lies in the commercialization of ultra-thin, flexible displays for a multitude of applications, including smartphones, televisions, integrated circuits, and even next-generation wearable electronics.

Professor Yong-Young Noh has articulated the significance of this research, commenting on its potential to usher in an era of remarkable improvements in display technologies and electronic devices. The implications are tremendous, especially considering the low processing temperatures required—less than 300 degrees Celsius—which make it more accessible for broad adoption in future applications.

Furthermore, this research group has acknowledged financial support from esteemed entities such as the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), indicating a robust backing for innovative endeavors in semiconductor technology. Their work is not only contributing to the field of electrical engineering but also serves to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of sustainable technological practices.

As the world continues to advance toward a future that endorses integration and flexibility in digital devices, this innovative research on vapour-deposited high-performance tin perovskite transistors stands as a testament to human ingenuity. It embodies the spirit of discovery that fuels technological evolution and promises a dazzling array of possibilities that will indisputably shape the next generation of electronic devices.

The scientific community and tech industries alike are poised to witness the ramifications of this research. The scientific paper detailing these findings, published in the esteemed journal Nature Electronics, depicts a comprehensive overview of the methodology and results, inviting scholars worldwide to delve deeper into this riveting advancement in p-type transistors. The findings harness not just the promise of high performance but also advocate for a future of eco-friendly manufacturing processes—critical in today’s environmentally-conscious world.

Understanding the synthesis of such advanced materials aids the scholarly community in evolving their manufacturing acumen and broadening the exploration of novel electrical properties revealed in perovskites. As players in the field begin to harness these new developments, the influence and significance of this work will resonate across various sectors, potentially redefining the landscape of modern electronics for years to come.

This research opens the floodgates to further explorations into material science, semiconductor physics, and the interplay between design and technology. Anticipation grows as we await the adoption and adaptation of these cutting-edge discoveries into practical realms, where user experience could be radically transformed by advancements in electronic transistors. The dawn of this new era appears imminent.

Subject of Research: High-performance tin perovskite transistors
Article Title: Vapour-deposited high-performance tin perovskite transistors
News Publication Date: 28-Apr-2025
Web References: Direct link to article
References: Information not available
Image Credits: Credit: POSTECH

Keywords

Applied sciences and engineering, Electronics, Semiconductors, Materials, Thin films, Electrical conductors, Transistors, Perovskites, Electrical power, Energy storage, Electronic devices.

The newly developed nanofiltration system targets the extraction and separation of VFAs from cattle manure that has undergone anaerobic digestion in bioreactors. By leveraging redox-mediated electrodialysis, this system stands out for its remarkable 80% increase in energy efficiency compared to conventional electrochemical processes. The research team’s progress signals a potential paradigm shift in how industries can transition from traditional petrochemical feedstocks to more sustainable biowaste-derived resources.

At the heart of this discovery lies a combination of selective ion-exchange membranes and advanced electrochemical separation techniques. Traditional methods of VFA extraction often result in significant energy expenditures and environmental waste; however, the novel approach developed in this study drastically minimizes these drawbacks. By employing electrical fields to manipulate charged chemical species, combined with redox molecules that can dynamically alter their electrical structures, the research team has tackled one of the foremost challenges in environmental science: how to efficiently extract organic chemicals from chemically complex mixtures.

The researchers, led by Professor Xiao Su, list multiple benefits of their system. “It’s incredible that we’re able to obtain industrial chemicals like VFAs from something like manure,” Su noted, underlining the intersection of waste management and chemical production efficiency. This technology not only promises to reduce waste but also paves the way for the reprocessing of byproducts into valuable resources, thereby transforming the waste-to-energy landscape.

By using redox-mediated electrodialysis, the researchers have developed membranes with unique properties that allow for the precise differentiation of chemically diverse VFAs, optimizing the separation process. The uniqueness of this technique lies in its ability to isolate specific VFAs based on their molecular structures, thus maximizing yield and purity while minimizing energy consumption. This specificity is critical, as the market for VFAs is poised to grow, driven by increasing demand for biodegradable alternatives and sustainable raw materials.

With the collaboration of animal sciences professor Roderick Ian Mackie, the team fermented a broth from cattle manure, and applied their innovative separation technique to extract shorter-chain VFAs, effectively isolating key resources from a multitude of longer-chain VFAs and other compounds present in the mixture. “This is an innovative approach to utilizing waste material from concentrated animal production facilities, which contribute to environmental pollution, and converting it into valuable industrial chemicals,” Mackie explained, emphasizing the dual benefit of pollution reduction and resource recovery.

In addition to the advancements in VFA recovery, this research addresses significant concerns about the environmental impacts associated with intensive animal farming. Conventional practices often lead to large-scale waste generation, which poses risks of groundwater contamination and air pollution. By effectively processing manure and creating valuable industrial outputs, this technology not only contributes to cleaner production methods but also reinforces the ethical utilization of agricultural resources.

The implications of this technology reach far beyond the laboratory and could revolutionize how industries source their chemical inputs. The scalability of this system appears promising, with future plans to adapt the technology for industrial applications. This could potentially transform waste management practices across various agricultural sectors, facilitating a more sustainable cycle of production and consumption.

The National Academy of Sciences and several other institutions have recognized the study’s contributions to sustainable engineering. The research was featured on the inside front cover of the February 5, 2025 issue of the journal Advanced Functional Materials, signifying its importance within the scientific community. Such recognition illustrates the scholar’s commitment to pushing boundaries in both engineering and environmental sustainability, which could inspire future research initiatives worldwide.

As the research team considers the next steps, plans for detailed materials design and further membrane development are prioritized. “If we can make the membranes even more selective than they already are, we can decrease the overall cost and energy expenditure for the process,” Su stated, effectively summarizing the ambitions that lie ahead. Advances like these not only hold practical implications for industry but also bolster academic inquiries into sustainable practices.

Overall, this innovative research signifies a remarkable stride towards addressing global challenges in sustainability and resource management. By adeptly transforming waste into valuable chemicals, the work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign stands as a compelling model for future explorations in both the environmental and chemical engineering domains. The venture represents a pivotal moment where science and sustainability converge, offering hope for a greener, more resource-efficient future.

As society continues to grapple with the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, research endeavors like this shine a light on potential solutions. By converting waste into resources through advanced technologies, the groundwork is laid for a future where cyclic resource use becomes the norm, rather than the exception. This approach could inspire further innovations, elevating environmental consciousness across multiple sectors and fostering a more sustainable global economy.

The journey toward circularity and sustainable practices requires a concerted effort from researchers, industries, policymakers, and consumers alike. As highlighted by this research, the potential for collaborative innovation in the field of waste management is ripe for exploration. The momentum generated by this study could be the catalyst that inspires a wave of transformative practices across agriculture, manufacturing, and beyond.

Subject of Research: Recovery of volative fatty acids from animal waste
Article Title: Controlling Bicontinuous Polyelectrolyte Complexation for Membrane Selectivity: Redox-Mediated Electrochemical Separation of Volatile Fatty Acids
News Publication Date: March 26, 2025
Web References: N/A
References: N/A
Image Credits: The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Keywords: Volatile fatty acids, biowaste, anaerobic digestion, electrochemical separation, circular economy, environmental sustainability, nanofiltration system, ion-exchange membranes, redox-mediated electrodialysis, chemical engineering, animal sciences, resource recovery.