The recently concluded annual research showcase that was held in the Gymnasium Hall at the Vaal University of Technology was a resounding success. The event which featured research carried out within the four faculties at the University, was attended by staff, Students and honoured industrial partners.

A keynote address from the VC, Prof. Irene Moutlana, reiterated the importance of research both for the Institutions academic community and industry alike. She also encouraged researchers to, through interaction with industrial partners, target research focus areas that where relevant to solving South Africa’s problems.

The VC was furthermore impressed by the level and quality of the research outcomes dubbing some of the Technologies being investigated as Futuristic. Of particular interest was research by post-graduate students at the Telkom Center of Excellence, into the development of fuel cell energy systems.

This technology which involves the generation of electricity from hydrogen and oxygen gas is one of the main focus areas of research at the university. The technology though available since the 1960’s has received growing interest due to concerns about global warming and climate change.

Fuel cells use hydrogen gas and oxygen (air) to generate electricity with water and heat as the only bi-products. Because of their extremely low emissions they have been deployed in space exploration, transportation (Cars and Buses) and for stand-alone energy generation.

Projects on show included: Innovative Product Development; Sustainable Livelihoods and Nutrition; Economic Development; Chemical Biotechnology; Plant Molecular Genetics; Alternative Energy Sources - Fuel Cell Research; Environmental Pollution and Health;  ICT Technologies; Materials and Processing Technologies; Visual Learning, Arts and Fashion Design.