News School of Engineering | STI

Giovanni De Micheli enters American National Academy of Engineering

Published:19.02.26 — School of Engineering Emeritus Professor Giovanni De Micheli has been named an international member of the US NAE Class of 2026.

Nanodevice produces continuous electricity from evaporation

Published:19.02.26 — A nanodevice developed at EPFL produces an autonomous, stable current from evaporating saltwater by using heat and light to control the movement of ions and electrons.

Breaking down plastic can boost recycling effectiveness

Published:18.02.26 — Plastic recycling is entering a new era, thanks to smart sorting systems and chemical processes that break the material down into its constituent monomers. Research and innovation are giving rise to new approaches for a bolder, more sustainable circular economy.

Slippery ions create a smoother path to blue energy

Published:16.02.26 — By engineering lubricated interfaces inside nanopores, EPFL researchers have enabled ions to flow through a nanofluidic membrane with unprecedented speed and control. In addition to enhancing nanofluidic technologies, the innovation could help accelerate the development of next-generation osmotic energy harvesting.

When heat flows like water

Published:13.02.26 — EPFL researchers have shown theoretically that, in highly ordered materials, heat can flow toward warmer regions without violating the laws of thermodynamics. Their work could help design electronics that minimize heat loss.