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Visit by Delegation of Wenzhou government

On 15 March 2024, a delegation led by Mr. Lu Bojun, Member of the Standing Committee of Wenzhou Communist Party Committee, Head of the Organization Department, and the Director of the Talent Office, visited The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). The delegation was welcomed by the Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU; Dr Miranda LOU, Executive Vice President of PolyU; Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU.  The visit aimed at strengthening the communication and cooperation between Wenzhou and PolyU in the recruitment of high-level science, technology and innovation talents, establishing a strategic partnership in talent resource sharing and information exchange, and attracting more PolyU graduates to Wenzhou for employment and starting up business. Wenzhou signed an agreement with PolyU to establish a university talent workstation in PolyU. The two sides had a friendly communication. Prof. CHAO introduced the development of PolyU, the programme setting and the employment situation of graduates. Prof. Benny C. F. CHEUNG, Director of PolyU-Wenzhou Technology and Innovation Research Institute (Research Institute), introduced the technical direction, discipline leaders and preparations of the Research Institute to the delegation. Leaders of Wenzhou introduced the situation of Wenzhou city, industry, and talent scheme. In addition, Prof. CHAO and Mr. ZHANG Lei, Director of Wenzhou Human Resources and Social Security Bureau, signed the agreement of the university talent workstation. Mr. Lu conferred the plaque to PolyU. After the meeting, the delegation visited the exhibition showcasing the achievements of the PolyU-Wenzhou Technology and Innovation Research Institute in various directions, as well as the Ou embroidery exhibition.   

PolyU researchers invent non-invasive diagnostic device Smart-CKD for advancing clinical management of chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 10% of the global population, among which renal fibrosis is a progressive process that can lead to end-stage renal failure. Early diagnosis and active monitoring are particularly important. Researchers from the Department of Health Technology and Informatics of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have developed Smart-CKD (S-CKD), a non-invasive computer-aided diagnostic tool. It integrates ultrasound data and selected clinical variables to provide clinical insights and assesses the risk of moderate-to-severe renal fibrosis progression in CKD patients with a promising diagnostic efficiency of 80%. The research findings have been published in the journal Academic Radiology. Early diagnosis and accurate staging of renal fibrosis significantly guide treatment strategies and prognostic assessment, enabling timely preventive measures to avoid or delay disease exacerbations. However, identifying individuals at high risk of advanced renal fibrosis with precision continues to pose a challenge in clinical practice. To tackle this challenge, a team led by Prof. Michael Tin Cheung YING, Associate Head; and Dr Ziman CHEN, Postdoctoral Fellow of the Department of Health Technology and Informatics at PolyU have collaborated with Dr Zhongzhen SU, Vice President of The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University to invent S-CKD which aims to improve disease progress monitoring and clinical management of CKD using informatic technology. This device offers a cost-effective solution for guiding patient management, thereby contributing notable clinical advantages. Prof. Ying said, “While renal biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosing and staging renal fibrosis, its invasive nature imposes limitations on conducting multiple observations and follow-ups, and has potential complications. Therefore, there is a pressing need to develop a non-invasive biomarker for precise monitoring and clinical management of renal fibrosis and its progression.” By leveraging machine learning, S-CKD integrates three pivotal clinical parameters - age, ultrasonic renal length and end-diastolic flow velocity of the interlobar renal artery, to assist medical practitioners in assessing renal fibrosis risk in CKD patients during routine clinical practices. It plays a crucial role in guiding treatment decisions and improving patient prognosis. S-CKD is accessible through an online web-based platform or in offline document-based format, making it a user-friendly auxiliary instrument for flexible clinical applications. Prof. Ying said, “We plan to conduct further prospective clinical research on S-CKD, utilising PolyU’s innovative medical technology and facilities in collaboration with medical institutions in the Greater Bay Area and our Hong Kong partners. Together, we will collaborate on research to enhance the impact of S-CKD on clinical management, ultimately improving CKD patients’ prognosis.” Prof. Ying hopes that the World Kidney Day on 14 March could raise public awareness about kidney disease and promote the importance of early prevention of chronic diseases. The research team will continue to make contribution to advancing healthcare development in Hong Kong and the world with their innovative technology. 【Watch the video for more】 PolyU Research Impact – Smart Clinical Device for Kidney Disease Management

PolyU and Hexagon established strategic partnership for advancing spatial measurement technologies

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Hexagon Leica Geosystems (Qingdao) Co., Ltd. (Hexagon), a global leader in digital reality and industrial 4.0 solutions, have established strategic framework partnership to join forces in advancing cutting-edge technology and innovation. The partnership aims to foster R&D in surveying, geographic information mapping technology and equipment, as well as positioning and navigation systems. The two parties will explore the establishment of a joint lab focusing on research topics such as precise positioning, the use of AI and machine learning in surveying and other forwarding-looking technology issues. Furthermore, talent cultivation, technology transfer and commercialisation are also key collaboration area. Witnessed by Mr. Hongquan Li, President (Greater China Region) of Hexagon and other distinguished guests, the framework MoU was signed by Prof Chen Wu, Head of Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics at PolyU and Mr. Deyong Wang, Chief Financial Officer (China Region) of Hexagon and Executive Director of Hexagon Leica Geosystems. In addition to the signing ceremony, there were multidisciplinary technology forums and a tour of Qingdao Hexagon Smart Park. Experts and scholars from PolyU, Hexagon, and the Guangzhou Urban Planning and Design Survey Research Institute engaged in profound and enthusiastic discussions on future innovation trends. By leveraging Hexagon’s unique expertise in sensors, software and autonomous technologies, combined with PolyU’s outstanding research capabilities , the partnership aims to generate new disruptive productive forces empowered by digitalisation, data and technology innovation. PolyU has been working closely with industry partners to develop state-of-art technologies that benefit the society. Hexagon Leica Geosystems (Qingdao) Co., Ltd., part of the Hexagon Group, is an innovator in global spatial information technology and solutions. The company not only provides high-precision and efficient data collection equipment for smart cities, but also provides complete real-time situational awareness geospatial solutions.

Leading Minds Driving Research and Innovation

PolyU is home to many world-renowned scholars and academicians, who are leading the way in a wide range of frontier scientific disciplines. By leveraging their multidisciplinary expertise, they produce highly-cited research and develop innovations that positively impact industries and communities in Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. Their outstanding accomplishments underscore PolyU’s unwavering dedication to research excellence. We take pride in our scholars’ knowledge, creativity and determination to use research and innovation to build a brighter future. Click here to meet our Academicians and Distinguished Scholars

PolyU and AVSECO forge strategic partnership to drive innovation in aviation security

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Aviation Security Company Limited (AVSECO) are pleased to announce the establishment of a strategic partnership aimed at fostering innovation in the field of aviation security. This collaboration combines PolyU’s academic acumen and research expertise with AVSECO’s industry insights and business acumen, creating a powerful alliance to drive technological advancements and enhance cyber security resilience in the aviation sector. Renowned for its research capabilities and academic strength, PolyU will establish a platform for technical discussions between AVSECO and PolyU experts. This will facilitate the exchange of knowledge, ideas and best practices in aviation security, leading to the design and establishment of consultancy and collaborative research projects. By leveraging PolyU research expertise, AVSECO will gain access to cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions to address their technical needs. Prof. Wing-tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU, said in his welcoming speech, “Aviation security plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved in air travel. PolyU has teamed up with AVSECO to address the evolving security challenges in the aviation industry. We will work together to develop new technology for aviation security and work on joint research projects to enhance aviation security worldwide. This partnership will provide our engineering students with valuable knowledge exchange, research collaboration, and hands-on internship opportunities, preparing them for successful careers in the field. We believe this partnership will be mutually beneficial to the next generation of aviation security professionals.” Mr Jacob CHEUNG, Executive Director of AVSECO supplemented, “Hong Kong International Airport, like many airports around the world, not only fully appreciates the importance of technology, but also seeks to embrace all new technological innovations that can improve the traveller experience, drive operational efficiency and bolster the integrity of aviation security systems. Collaboration, coordination and knowledge exchanges between AVSECO and PolyU will undoubtedly foster development and innovation within the airport security sector. This strategic partnership offers the potential for significant advancement in the development of cutting-edge aviation security-related solutions and, through our joint efforts, I am confident that we can greatly enhance airport security for all stakeholders.” The agreement is expected to drive new and more significant engagement initiatives in the near-future, enabling both parties to further explore the opportunities for academic and application research exchanges for students, faculty members and staff. It will help foster a collaborative environment that will benefit both parties and promote academic excellence and foster industry growth. About The Hong Kong Polytechnic University The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) aspires to be an innovative world-class university with a strong sense of social responsibility, driven by its motto, “To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind”. The University provides the best holistic education to nurture socially responsible “leaders of tomorrow” who possess a strong sense of national identity and a global perspective, and pursues impactful innovation and interdisciplinary research to address the world’s most pressing challenges. A robust culture of knowledge transfer and entrepreneurship is a cornerstone of the University, ensuring PolyU’s technologies are transformed into practical real-world applications. The University’s unwavering commitment to excellence has earned it international recognition, with PolyU consistently ranking among the top 100 universities worldwide. Based on this solid foundation, the University will continue to make positive contributions in collaboration with its strategic partners for the betterment of Hong Kong, the Nation and the world. About AVSECO Aviation Security Company Limited (AVSECO) has been a leading provider of aviation security services with a strong commitment to safeguarding the travelling public and civil aviation operations at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), providing aviation security and related services since its inception. Based at HKIA, AVSECO employs around 4,500 highly trained personnel who work to ensure that the airport and its facilities are secure. The company’s vision is to deliver world-class aviation security services in Hong Kong and also with the mission to maintain the highest standards of aviation security at the HKIA.

PolyU launches Research Centre for Electric Vehicles advancing smart electric vehicle research to achieve carbon neutrality goals

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) hosted the “Launch Ceremony of Research Centre for Electric Vehicles cum Forum on Intelligent EV and Energy for Carbon Neutrality” on campus yesterday, in the presence of approximately 350 staff and students, together with leaders from government, innovation and technology, energy and academic sectors. The Research Centre for Electric Vehicles (RCEV) is led by its Director, Prof. C.C. CHAN, who is widely recognised as the “Father of Asian Electric Vehicles”, an Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Distinguished Chair Professor of the PolyU Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. The Research Centre aims to develop a cutting-edge research platform to address energy and technical challenges presented by modern electric vehicles. Prof. SUN Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, HKSAR Government; and Mr Neil Bush, Founder and Chair of the George H. W. Bush Foundation for U.S.-China Relations, delivered opening remarks. Together with Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU President and Prof. C.C. CHAN, RCEV Director, they congratulated the University on the establishment of the Centre. Prof. Sun Dong said, “The establishment of this new university-level research centre marks a significant step forward in guiding Hong Kong’s future direction to attain zero vehicular emissions. By addressing the technical challenges associated with modern electric vehicles, RCEV will provide critical technological solutions that will drive the development and adoption of EVs in Hong Kong and beyond. I am fully confident that RCEV will provide great stimulation to the industry through technological breakthrough.” Mr Neil Bush said, “As an electric vehicle driver for five years and a supporter of environmental protection, I congratulate The Hong Kong Polytechnic University on the establishment of the Electric Vehicle Research Centre. Just as the automobile revolution is deepening, the establishment of this centre will have far-reaching impacts. Electric vehicles are not only a means of transportation, they will promote smart transportation, smart energy, smart networks, smart cities, and smart societies. Prof. C.C. Chan’s recent book on ‘The Integration of Energy, Transportation, Information, and Humanities – The Renaissance of Digital Technology’ was published by top publisher Elsevier and laid down the foundation of theory and practice for sustainable development.” Prof. Jin-Guang Teng stated, “As a leading institution in research and innovation, PolyU has always been at the forefront of addressing societal challenges. The establishment of the Research Centre for Electric Vehicles serves to further our contribution to this important field. The work of the Research Centre will embrace electric vehicle technologies, intelligent transportation systems, and energy management.This holistic approach will result in enhanced energy efficiency, environmental benefits, and the creation of new business opportunities.” At the Launch Ceremony, Memorandums of Understanding were signed between the RCEV, and China Power International Development Limited and Wisdom Motor (HK) Limited respectively. These aim to initiate actions in line with the Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Development Blueprint and Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, so as to contribute to the development of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone and the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone. Witnessed by Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, PolyU President (1st from right, back row); Prof. C.C. Chan, RCEV Director (2nd from right, back row), Mr Ye Shuiqiu, Deputy Director-General, Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs, Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR (1st from left, back row); and Mr Chang FANG, Senior Manager, China Power International Development Limited (2nd from left, back row), an MoU was signed by Prof. Christopher Chao, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Director of the Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology (right, front row) ; and Mr Weikang LIN, General Manager, China Power International Development Limited (left, front row). Witnessed by Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, PolyU President (centre, back row); Prof. C.C. Chan, RCEV Director (right, back row), Dr Yufeng WAN, Director of Wisdom Motor and Partner at Templewater (left, back row), an MoU was signed by Prof. Christopher Chao, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation), and Director of the Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology (right, front row); and Mr Felix XU, Chief Strategy Officer and Global Treasurer, Wisdom Motor (left, front row). As well as Prof. C.C. Chan, a number of distinguished guests delivered keynote speeches at the Forum. They were Mr Peter Major, Chair of the UN Commission on Science and Technology for Development and Honorary Chairman of the World Digital Technology Academy; Prof. Yin-biao SHU, Immediate Past President of the International Electrotechnical Commission and President of Chinese Society for Electrical Engineering; Dr Gan SONG, Director of Advanced Technology R&D Department of BYD; Mr Joseph LAW, Managing Director of CLP Power Hong Kong; and Mr Eric PANG, Director of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, HKSAR Government. Prof. C.C. Chan emphasised that it is an opportune time to capitalise on the massive opportunities in electric vehicle research and education. The establishment of the RCEV is geared towards nurturing innovative electric vehicle talents to benefit the Greater Bay Area and the world, while enhancing collaborative efforts with enterprises in mainland China and Hong Kong. The Centre will focus on cutting-edge research on electric vehicles and the friendly interaction between electric vehicles, power grids and 5G networks. It is also set to develop a platform to foster industry-university-research collaboration, thereby catalysing the industrialisation of research outcomes that help achieve higher efficiency, security, reliability and intelligence in electric vehicle technologies. In his closing remarks at the Forum, Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Director of the Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology (PReCIT), mentioned that PolyU has been paying strong attention to carbon neutrality and is leading in securing Green Tech Fund and Environment and Conservation Fund among all local institutions. PReCIT is pleased to co-organise the event and join the forum. It has also recently secured a Public Policy Research Fund to study hydrogen fuel cell vehicle and electric vehicle related policies. PolyU would continue to strive for excellence in education, research and knowledge dissemination, thereby making significant contributions to the progress of the Nation, while also journeying toward a more sustainable future and achievement of the goal of carbon neutrality. Prof. Christopher Chao, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation), and Director of the Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology concluded that PolyU will make continued contributions on the journey toward a more sustainable future and achievement of the goal of carbon neutrality.

PolyU to establish research platform in Daya Bay

At the opening ceremony of the Pingshan River innovation and technology corridor, Prof. Wing-tak Wong, Deputy President and Provost of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University revealed that the University will set up a research platform in the Daya Bay Economic and Technological Development Zone to contribute to the development of the corridor.

PolyU researchers introduce biomineralization as a sustainable strategy against microbial corrosion in marine concrete

Microbially induced corrosion (MIC) is a prevalent issue in marine environments, leading to structural damages such as cracking in concrete infrastructure. This corrosion poses a persistent challenge, significantly reducing the lifespan of marine structures and resulting in substantial economic losses. In response to the need for an effective solution to combat the marine corrosion on concrete, researchers of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University have developed a biomineralization approach to protect marine concrete from MIC.  Prof. Xiang-dong LI, Dean of Faculty of Construction and Environment, Director of Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development, Chair Professor of Environmental Science and Technology, and Ko Jan Ming Professor in Sustainable Urban Development, has led the research that successfully introduces a novel biomineralization strategy, which effectively isolates marine concrete from MIC, thereby contributing to the achievement of sustainable coastal structures.  MIC on concrete usually occurs in harsh environments with the presence of corrosive microorganisms, such as sewage structures, wastewater treatment plants, and marine structures. The formation of a biomineralized film on concrete surfaces is typically considered to be the major anticorrosion mechanism as it can provide a barrier to inhibit corrosion. Prof. LI said, “The biomineralization technique serves as an environmentally friendly coating method for controlling concrete corrosion, with minimal impact on the overall biofilm communities. Also, it utilises carbon dioxide to produce mineral precipitates, enhancing the durability of concrete structures. This process not only reduces the carbon footprint and energy consumption of marine infrastructure throughout its lifespan, but also makes a valuable contribution to carbon neutrality and sustainability.” The study showed the biomineralization treatment effectively prevents corrosion by reducing the total  and relative abundance of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). SRB is a type of anaerobic bacteria and can produce hydrogen sulfide, which is corrosive and can lead to material deterioration.  The biomineralized film acts as a protective layer, controlling sulfate diffusion and isolating the concrete from the corrosive SRB communities. This protective mechanism significantly extends the lifespan of concrete structures. Moreover, this technique has no negative impact on the native marine microbial communities. Prof. LI added, “If the biomineralized film remains intact, repainting the concrete structures is unnecessary. The utilisation of a single coating treatment eliminates the need for multiple treatments, further minimising the cost and carbon footprint.” This biomineralization strategy has strong potential for applications in corrosive environments, such as marine environments, sewage environments, and water cooling utilities, where concrete corrosion is induced by corrosive microorganisms. The research, titled “Biomineralization to prevent microbially induced corrosion on concrete for sustainable marine infrastructure” was published in Environmental Science & Technology. The study employed a combination of chemical and mechanical property measurements of concrete, along with an analysis of the microbial community of biofilms, to evaluate the effectiveness of biomineralization techniques in inhibiting corrosion of marine concrete. These assessments aimed to enhance understanding of MIC development. The results contribute to the development of new techniques for inhabiting corrosion to achieve sustainable marine concrete structures.  In a sulfate chemical attack, calcium hydroxide and calcium aluminate hydrate will be consumed to form gypsum and ettringite, resulting in expansion stress and matrix fracture (Figure 1a). In an MIC attack, bacteria can colonise the corroded layer, which provides an excellent medium for microorganisms to grow. Microbial activity can extend beyond the corrosion layer near to the surface and spread across the deterioration zone (Figure 1b).  Compared with chemical corrosion, MIC causes more severe damage to marine concrete structures. However, the formation of the biomineralized film on the concrete surfaces led to higher surface pH (potential of hydrogen) and lower surface sulfate concentrations, which also acted as a protective layer to control the diffusion of sulfate and isolate the concrete from SRB communities, decreasing internal sulfate levels (Figure 1c). Considering that the type of colonised surface also affects the treatment effect of biomineralization, the effectiveness of biomineralization will be further investigated for different types of concrete to expand its applicability potential.  In addition, the functional prediction can be used in future studies to obtain a mechanistic understanding of the possible metabolic capability of microbial action on concrete corrosion. This understanding is beneficial for uncovering the mystery between SRB and the lifespan of marine concrete structures.  

PolyU and Zhongshan Municipal Government establish strategic agreement for research collaboration

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Zhongshan Municipal People’s Government have formed a cooperative framework agreement to enhance research and innovation development, fostering partnership among industries, academia, and research organisations in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. Prof. Wing-tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU, along with Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation), Prof. Christina WONG, Director of Research and Innovation, and PolyU scholars attended the High-quality Development Conference in Zhongshan. Prof. CHAO signed the agreement during the event on 18 February. In delivering a speech at the event, Prof. WONG said PolyU will establish a strategic research platform with Zhongshan to drive innovation and technology development in fields such as chemical engineering and biomedicine. The agreement aims to foster research transformation, nurture talents, and strengthen cooperation among industries, academia and research organisations. PolyU will engage in collaboration with research organisations, governments and enterprises in Zhongshan, with a focus on biomedical technology and other fields. This partnership will facilitate cooperation in the biomedical industry in Hong Kong and Zhongshan, jointly promoting the development in China and overseas markets. With this strategic partnership, PolyU will be closely connected with Zhongshan to enhance industrial innovation and translational research, supporting the development of Zhongshan into a biomedical innovation centre. PolyU has two national state key laboratories, including the State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University), which focuses on drug research and development. Their research projects have attained world-class standards, contributing to cutting-edge scientific discoveries.

PolyU researcher recycles textile waste for building clothing as thermal insulation

Textiles account for 10% of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, while 85% of textile waste is simply landfilled and incinerated. Buildings in Hong Kong generate 60% of CO2 emission and air conditioners consume 30% of energy. Therefore, providing an attractive technology to recycle textile waste and save building energy simultaneously holds high promise for carbon reduction. Dr Dahua SHOU, Limin Endowed Young Scholar in Advanced Textiles Technologies, Assistant Professor in School of Fashion and Textiles of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has led a research project to create multi-functional, value-added "building clothing" (BC) from textile waste for carbon reduction. Textile waste, often consisting of blended yarns, is difficult to recycle due to the challenges and high cost of sorting, depolymerisation, and dissolution. Dr SHOU’s research titled, “Development of multi-functional building clothing using textile waste for energy saving and waste reduction,” has recently supported by the Green Tech Fund in Hong Kong.  It proposes collecting textile waste to develop a sustainable building envelope for thermal insulation and radiative cooling by a mass production method. The reuse of textile waste as the thermal insulation for sustainable buildings will be an effective green technology that synergistically combines two crucial components in achieving carbon neutrality in Hong Kong: textile waste recycling and building energy saving. By leveraging photon engineering, nature-inspired design, and heat transfer optimization, the proposed "building clothing" will excel in managing the temperature of buildings. In addition to minimising thermal conductivity, the textile-reinforced hierarchical microstructures and colorants will selectively reflect solar heat, including visible light (VIS) and near-infrared (NIR), while emitting thermal radiation in the long-wave infrared (LWIR) spectrum. Furthermore, it effectively repels water and dirt on the surface, ensuring consistent performance and robustness. This multi-functional "building clothing," enhanced with multi-color aesthetics, is highly durable, lightweight, and flame-resistant, making it compatible with a variety of scenarios such as residential and factory buildings, village houses, stilt houses, substations, container apartments, curtains, canopies, and tents. The reuse of textile waste as thermal insulation for sustainable buildings is an effective green technology that synergistically combines two crucial components in achieving carbon neutrality in Hong Kong: textile waste recycling and building energy saving.