News EPFL

The random importance of clouds

Published:25.11.19 — Juhan Aru is a new professor in Mathematics at EPFL where he holds the Chair of Random Geometry. His work aims at understanding geometric properties of models where randomness and geometry meet.

Engineering solutions for kitchen challenges

Published:22.11.19 — Crafty engineering can help solve many problems, including those we face in our own kitchens. At EPFL’s Institute of Mechanical Engineering, students from three laboratories tackled some of the most common kitchen challenges as part of the first Kitchen-Inspired Engineering contest.

Eliminating cracks in 3D-printed metal components

Published:21.11.19 — Researchers at EPFL have developed a new laser 3D-printing technique to manufacture metal components with unprecedented resistance to high temperature, damage and corrosion. The method has applications in fields ranging from aerospace to power-generating turbines.

When grown right, palm oil can be sustainable

Published:20.11.19 — Turning an abandoned pasture into a palm tree plantation can be carbon neutral, according to a new study by EPFL and the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL). These findings, based on measurements of 56-year-old palm tree plantations in Colombia, suggest we may be able to find sustainable alternatives to deforestation for the production of palm oil – a practice currently under fire by environmentalists. 

Stabilizing a cliff using biomineral binders

Published:20.11.19 — EPFL spin-off Medusoil has successfully tested its ground-stabilization process on cliffs subject to surface erosion. The company’s biomineral-based solution can be used to stabilize sandy and gravelly subsoils to safeguard surrounding infrastructure. It is a long-lasting and easy-to-use alternative to industrial fluids – the production and use of which can be harmful to the environment. The startup is now ready to scale up production.

EPFL hosts a new SBB innovation unit

Published:19.11.19 — Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) opened a new innovation unit today at EPFL’s Innovation Park, further deepening its ties with the School.

A conversation with EPFL's artist-in-residence, Nora Al-Badri

Published:19.11.19 — Nora Al-Badri talks about her unique work at the intersection of art, artificial intelligence, and cultural heritage. She is the first artist in a new residency program administered by the College of Humanities (CDH), and operationalized by ArtLab, which will host an exhibition of Al-Badri’s work next year.