News

Prof. David PUI of University of Minnesota delivers lecture on “Green Technologies Development for Sustainable Environment”

Prof. David Y. H. PUI, Regents Professor and LM Fingerson/TSI Inc. Chair in Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, USA, delivered the 29th PAIR Distinguished Lecture titled “Green Technologies Development for Sustainable Environment” on 13 September 2024 at PolyU. The lecture attracted nearly 100 participants to join in person and captivated an online viewing audience of over 11,200 from different countries and regions to watch the live broadcast on multiple social media platforms, including Bilibili, WeChat, Weibo, YouTube, etc. The lecture commenced with a warm welcome and brief speaker introduction by Prof. CHEN Qingyan, Director of PAIR. Prof. Pui kickstarted his presentation by highlighting the severity of pollution nowadays. He shared that his research in the field of green technologies and environmental sustainability aims to mitigate PM2.5, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ozone (O3) in urban environment; reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) to mitigate global climate change; and provide clean water to achieve water sustainability. Next, he introduced the current research projects by the Center for Filtration Research (CFR) at the University of Minnesota, covering indoor air cleaning and COVID-19 prevention, bioaerosols sensor development and evaluation, nanofiber production and modelling, nanotechnology and instrumentation developments, etc. Prof. Pui also shared some real case examples of large-scale air cleaning towers, including the Solar Assisted Large Scale Cleaning System (SALACS) in Xian and Yancheng in China, as well as the air cleaning towers in Delhi, India. He shared with the audience some recent developments on the second generation of the cleaning system, and explained how it can collect PM2.5 and remove CO2 effectively. To conclude, Prof. Pui pointed out that academia, government and industry play important roles and the three parties must work together closely in the same direction and at the same pace towards developing clean cities. Following the presentation was a lively and insightful question-and-answer session moderated by Prof. Chen. The audience engaged in a productive discussion with Prof. Pui. As a token of appreciation for his inspiring talk and support for PAIR, Prof. WANG Zuankai, Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation), presented a souvenir to Prof. Pui.   Please click here for an online review.

PAIR collaborates with the STEM College of RMIT University to jointly establish PolyU–RMIT FutureLab

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is so proud to collaborate with the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) to set up the PolyU–RMIT FutureLab (FutureLab). A launching ceremony was held on the PolyU campus on 12 September 2024. The ceremony was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including Mr Gareth WILLIAMS, Australian Consul-General to Hong Kong and Macau, Ms LIU Bing, Deputy Consul-General, and Mr Patrick ORCHARD, Consul Trade and Investment Commissioner. FutureLab is a new initiative to support and connect members from PolyU and RMIT University to undertake collaborative, interdisciplinary research projects in strategic areas, such as energy, smart cities, carbon neutrality, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, etc., that contribute to the advancements and applications of cutting-edge technologies while promoting urban and environmental sustainability at the same time. At the Lab, in addition to conducting joint projects, the two universities will also collaborate to provide exchange opportunities for academic and research staff, prepare applications for joint research grants, and organise activities such as international conferences. The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome by Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU. “FutureLab is a platform on which PAIR and RMIT scholars leverage complementary research strengths, including expertise, resources and networks, to co-design and conduct projects and activities that not only benefit the research and development (R&D) of both universities, but also the sustainable development of two regions,” said Prof. Chao. During the opening remarks, Mr Layton PIKE, Executive Director, International at RMIT University said, “RMIT and PolyU’s collaboration to create FutureLab reflects the joint vision of our institutions to work together for a sustainable future, through the advancement of technologies and research”. He also introduced three joint projects to be conducted by researchers from the two universities: The Smart City Lens: Geospatial technologies and digital twins for action on urban sustainability It aims to create a new approach and technology for capturing, analysing, and visualising dynamic information and actionable insights about the impacts of smart city precincts. Advanced Grid Support Services from Smart Buildings and Building Microgrids It involves experiments on load flexibility, building data analytics and developing machine learning models to identify load flexibility in smart buildings, and building microgrids to provide grid support services. AI-based Drone Assistant for Automated Coastline Rescue and Cleanup It aims to establish an integrated system for sustainable coastline safety and environmentally friendly waste management by aligning with human safety and global sustainability targets. To conclude the ceremony, Prof. Charlie XUE, Distinguished Professor and Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor (International) of STEM College at RMIT University, shared that RMIT University has had multiple meetings and connections with PolyU since July 2023. The launch of FutureLab is a significant investment, and the two institutions look forward to seeing increased collaboration, joint outputs and impact, pathways for continuous collaboration, and opportunities to connect with industry and other end users for commercialisation.

Research Centre of Textiles for Future Fashion holds symposium to present research outcomes

The Research Centre of Textiles for Future Fashion (RCTFF) held its first International Advisory Committee (IAC) Meeting and a Symposium on Interdisciplinary Research for Fashion & Textile on 12 July 2024. Prof. FAN Jintu, Director of RCTFF and Chair Professor of Fiber Science and Apparel Engineering, introduced the research themes and projects of the Centre. The symposium was held following the IAC meeting. It demonstrated how different fields of expertise can be integrated to bring innovations to the fashion and textile fields. Five core members of the Centre presented their research outcomes. Prof. WANG Xungai, Associate Dean (Strategic Planning and Development) of the School of Fashion and Textiles (SFT) and Chair Professor of Fiber Science and Technology, shared research on denim recycling; Dr LIU Xihui, Associate Director of RCTFF and Assistant Dean (Academic Programmes) of the School of Design (SD), presented her work in fashion entrepreneurship and design management; Dr SHOU Dahua, Limin Endowed Young Scholar in Advanced Textiles Technologies and Associate Professor of SFT, introduced his research on personal moisture and thermal management; Dr YUAN Yancheng, Assistant Professor of the Department of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, presented the model for sequential recommendation systems; and Dr LI Ping, Assistant Professor of the Department of Computing and SD, introduced the latest work on simulation of visual art, fashion and design. Online coverage: Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/3XyoioW

Prof. CHENG Li elected as Fellow of The Royal Society of Canada

Congratulations to Prof. CHENG Li, Management Committee Member of the Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence of Things (RIAIoT), Member of the Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems (RI-IWEAR) and the Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology (RISports), Associate Dean (Research) of Faculty of Engineering and Chair Professor of Mechanical Engineering, for being elected as a Fellow of the Academy of Science under The Royal Society of Canada (RSC) for his outstanding scholarly achievements. Prof. Cheng is known worldwide for his ground-breaking contributions to acoustics, structural vibration, and wave mechanics. His pioneering works in vibroacoustic system modelling, acoustic/elastic wave manipulation and control, fluid-structure-acoustic interaction, and structural health monitoring has significantly advanced knowledge in these fields and enabled impactful engineering applications. Online coverage: Sohu - https://polyu.me/3zb8zCM

Prof. CAO Jiannong on GenAI development

Prof. CAO Jiannong, Director of the Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence of Things (RIAIoT), Dean of Graduate School, Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Professor in Data Science, Director of the University Research Facility in Big Data Analytics and Chair Professor of Distributed and Mobile Computing, was interviewed in a talk show by Ta Kung Pao, sharing on the development of generative AI, how humans should adapt to the AI era, and PolyU’s integration of AI into its curricula. He also shared his journey of scientific research from Nanjing to the United States, Australia and Hong Kong, and his views on mainland talents’ contributions and development in Hong Kong. Online coverage: Ta Kung Pao - https://polyu.me/4eggTjl; https://polyu.me/47iQXBy Dot Dot News - https://polyu.me/3Tjl1Hy; https://polyu.me/3yYHCCo

Establishment of Research Institute for Quantum Technology

We are pleased to announce the establishment of the Research Institute for Quantum Technology (RIQT) with effect from 1 September 2024 as one of the constituent research units of PAIR! RIQT aims to establish PolyU as a leading multidisciplinary research institute in quantum technology and microelectronics, a rapidly growing cutting-edge research area that integrates quantum physics, computer science, mathematics, microelectronics and photonics. Prof. LIU Ai-Qun, Chair Professor of Quantum Engineering and Science of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE), will lead the Institute as RIQT Director. Prof. Johan F. HOORN, Professor in the Department of Computing, Prof. MAK Man-wai, Professor in the EEE Department, and Prof. ZHANG Xuming, Associate Head and Professor of the Department of Applied Physics, will serve as RIQT Associate Directors.

PAIR Newsletter · Issue 11 · September 2024 is now available online

We are thrilled to publish the 11th Issue of the PAIR Newsletter! In the Knowledge Transfer section, you can discover how PAIR researchers contributed to China’s Chang’e-6 lunar far-side sampling mission, supporting the Nation to achieve historic success. The Research Achievements section contains a select number of award-winning PolyU-led innovations in health and well-being, as well as advanced technologies that can be used to support sustainable urban development. Our Feature Stories section includes exclusive interviews with gerontechnology expert Prof. Alex MIHAILIDIS and materials technology scholar Prof. LIN Jianguo, understanding their insights on societal and research development, and offers an in-depth coverage of the research works on smart manufacturing by Prof. George Q. HUANG, Director of Research Institute for Advanced Manufacturing. Please feel free to share articles and links from this Newsletter with your friends and colleagues. Share PAIR’s impact stories, spread knowledge and inspire innovation! Together, we drive interdisciplinary excellence! Happy reading! PAIR Newsletter · Issue 11: https://polyu.hk/UmgiH

Prof. YUNG Kai-leung on RCDSE’s contributions to Nation’s space missions

Prof. YUNG Kai-leung, Director of the Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations (RCDSE), Sir Sze-yuen Chung Professor in Precision Engineering, Chair Professor of Precision Engineering and Associate Head of the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, gave an interview to China Today on RCDSE’s contributions to the Nation’s space missions and the future development of the Centre. Prof. Yung said, “In the future, the country will have more aerospace exploration missions, for example, Mars sampling missions. But we still need key technological breakthroughs and will encounter major challenges. Our team is fully prepared, and the laboratory has been expanded, adding a lot of new experimental space”. He also shared that the team’s long-term goal is to develop more new technologies to help explore and utilise space resources. Online coverage: China Today - https://polyu.me/475hulR

Baoding Chinese Medicine Industrial Delegation Visited PolyU Exploring Collaborative Advancement of Innovative Research in Chinese Medicine

A delegation from Baoding led by Mr MA Yimin, Member of the Party Leadership Group of Baoding Municipal People's Government and Deputy Secretary of Party Working Committee of the High-tech Zone, Mr CHEN Shaohui, Secretary of Party Leadership Group and Director of Baoding Municipal Market Regulation Administration, Ms PANG Ying, Secretary of Party Leadership Group and Chairman of Baoding Municipal Health Commission, visited the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) on 16 August 2024. The delegation received a warm welcome from Prof. DONG Cheng, Associate Vice President (Mainland Research Advancement), Prof. ZHANG Weixiong, Associate Director of PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR), Prof. WONG Man-sau, Director of the Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation (RCMI), and other RCMI key members. Prof. DONG Cheng addressed in his welcoming remarks that “As one of the top 100 universities in the world, PolyU is committed to promoting interdisciplinary innovation and research application, actively integrating knowledge, technology, networks, and resources both within and outside the university to benefit society through high-level research and innovation. Future potential collaborations will leverage the strengths of both cities, particularly the research capabilities of local universities and the rich experiences of mainland governments and enterprises, facilitating the transformation and application of innovative research in Chinese medicine, to benefit the wider public.” During the visit, the two groups engaged in a productive exchange meeting and were guided on tours of the Wellness & Exercises Laboratory in the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and the Mass Spectrometers of University Research Facility in Chemical and Environmental Analysis. This visit facilitated communication with relevant Chinese medicine and wellness stakeholders, enhanced understanding of ongoing projects and notable discoveries, and explored potential collaborations for future partnerships.

PolyU researchers invent intelligent soft robotic clothing for automatic thermal adaptation in extreme heat

Dr Dahua SHOU, Member of the Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems (RI-IWEAR), the Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology (RISports) and the Research Centre of Textiles for Future Fashion (RCTFF), Limin Endowed Young Scholar in Advanced Textiles Technologies and Associate Professor in the School of Fashion and Textiles, and his team have developed a first-of-its-kind thermally-insulated and breathable soft robotic clothing that can automatically adapt to changing ambient temperatures, thereby helping to ensure worker safety in hot environments. Their research findings have been published in the international interdisciplinary journal Advanced Science. The protective clothing developed by the team uses soft robotic textile for dynamic adaptive thermal management. Soft actuators, designed like a human network-patterned exoskeleton and encapsulating a non-toxic, non-flammable, low-boiling-point fluid, were strategically embedded within the clothing. This thermo-stimulated system turns the fluid from a liquid into a gas when the ambient temperature rises, causing the expansion of soft actuators and the thickening of the textile matrix, thereby enhancing the gap of still air and doubling the thermal resistance from 0.23 to 0.48 Km²/W. The protective clothing can also keep the inner surface temperatures at least 10°C cooler than conventional heat-resistant clothing, even when the outer surface reaches 120°C. This unique soft robotic textile, made by thermoplastic polyurethane, is soft, resilient and durable. Notably, it is far more skin-friendly and conformable than temperature-responsive clothing embedded with shape-memory alloys and is adjustable for a wide range of protective clothing. The soft actuators have exhibited no signs of leakage after undergoing rigorous standard washing tests. The porous, spaced knitting structure of the material can also significantly reduce convective heat transfer while maintaining high moisture breathability. Not relying on thermoelectric chips or circulatory liquid cooling systems for cooling or heat conduction, the light-weighted, soft robotic clothing can effectively regulate temperature itself without any energy consumption. The innovation will have a wide range of potential applications, from activewear, winter jackets, healthcare apparel and outdoor gear, to sustainable textile-based insulation for construction and buildings, contributing to energy-saving efforts. In addition, with funding support from the Innovation and Technology Commission and the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel, the research team has extended the thermo-adaptive concept to develop inflatable, breathable jackets and warm clothing. This soft robotic clothing is suitable for low-temperature environments or sudden temperature drops to aid those who are stranded in the wilderness to maintain normal body temperature. Press release: https://polyu.me/3Aphu3R Online coverage: Fashionating World - https://polyu.me/3yHcAi3 The Sun (Malaysia) - https://polyu.me/4fMdhqY Frankfort Times - https://polyu.me/3X1pZLd Taiwan News - https://polyu.me/4dE7rWQ Dimsum Daily - https://polyu.me/3yFO0hA Sina Hong Kong - https://polyu.me/3SNhUrc ETNet - https://polyu.me/4fM0e8Y Macau Business - https://polyu.me/4co2Tmu BizWire Express - https://polyu.me/3WMFTHW Ming Pao Daily News - https://polyu.me/3AqQQaL Hong Kong Economic Journal - https://polyu.me/3SOqINv (subscription required) Ta Kung Pao - https://polyu.me/4fKGm6o Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/3Apha59 Hong Kong Commercial Daily - https://polyu.me/3yArQgI Dot Dot News - https://polyu.me/3YCV9tE Nanfang Daily - https://polyu.me/46MXAvD Hong Kong China News Agency - https://polyu.me/4fMrfJp Textile Value Chain - https://polyu.me/3WJ69mA Jornal Va Kio - https://polyu.me/3YEgVNC East Money - https://polyu.me/3AwsBb2 NetEase - https://polyu.me/4dmBEtV Chronicle Tribune - https://polyu.me/3WEw4vy (subscription required) The Facts - https://polyu.me/46LtM2C Hong Kong Economic Times - https://polyu.me/3YQ8HCh Sing Tao Daily - https://polyu.me/3YLEjZM Headline Daily - https://polyu.me/3M7tEAO HK01 - https://polyu.me/3SPZsy9 GBA Biz Tech Magazine - https://polyu.me/3X7i6UM IT Home - https://polyu.me/4dq3uoU ifeng.com - https://polyu.me/3X3Tc8b