PolyU pioneers change our world

[Sponsored Article] Ground-breaking research with practical applications is a key function for leading academic institutions and, in that respect, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) more than plays its part.

“We are continuously pushing the frontiers of knowledge by conducting projects which have a direct impact, and by making breakthroughs which solve problems, create hope and benefit mankind,” says professor Alex Wai, PolyU’s vice-president of research development.

“Overall, the aim is to change the world for the better. That can be done by helping to save lives, boost economic efficiency, foster sustainability, or even open up new horizons in space.”

Over the years, there have been many notable successes in areas ranging from railway monitoring technology and aviation services, to lunar exploration projects and food safety.

For example, as a pioneer in the field of applied photonics, a PolyU team developed proprietary optical fibre sensing technology for rail services to use in the continuous monitoring of tracks. This was a first of its kind initiative, which has since been adopted in the mainland and elsewhere overseas.