The Materials Science and Engineering department at King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM), in collaboration with the Oil Sustainability Program (OSP), organized the "OSP & KFUPM’s MSE Students Competition for Sustainable Materials.

This innovative challenge was designed to catalyze the transition towards sustainable materials by identifying eco-friendly polymer alternatives to traditional materials. The competition aligns seamlessly with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ambition to achieve net-zero emissions and further its oil sustainability goals.

Throughout the competition, students explored a diverse range of applications, including GFRP rebar, GFRP pipes, GFRP light poles, HDPE pipes, Polymer tiles, and uPVC window and door frames. Their in-depth comparative studies evaluated the technical merits, cost-effectiveness, and environmental footprints of these potential polymeric materials. The assessments considered crucial aspects such as end-of-life considerations, recyclability, CO2 emissions, and holistic life cycle analysis.

The success of this event was made possible by the dedicated efforts of several key contributors:

• The OSP, which sponsored, co-organized, and played an active role in the event.

• Special thanks to Eng. Mohammad Al Tayyar, the OSP director, and key figures like Dr. Gasem Fallatah, Eng. Fahad Al Suwaiei, and Ms. Dina AlMajed for their instrumental roles.

• Dr. Adel Badghaish, President of NOV Saudi Arabia, who emphasized the event's significance with his presence, and Engineer ALI ALDUBAIKHI, providing invaluable mentorship to one of the groups.

• DTVC, the event host, and a special acknowledgment to its CEO, Dr. Ammar Al Nahwi, for his enlightening opening remarks.

• The group mentors, including Dr. Ing. Julien Saade, Eng. Mohamed Gomaa, Eng. ABDULRAHMAN ALDHUBAYB, Eng. Mohammed Kanwi, and Eng. Saeed Alghamdi.

• The unwavering support of MSE Chairman Dr. Turki Baroud, Dr. Abduljabar Alsayoud and Ms. Buthaynah Alaqil, whose contributions were invaluable.

• Special mention to Alaa Alshaikhi, the master of ceremonies, for seamlessly guiding the program.

However, the true heart of this event was the students themselves. Their dedication and innovation were showcased through the competition, and the organizers extend heartfelt congratulations to the victorious teams.