MechE Connects

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Finding scalable ways to utilize renewable resources for energy and creating solutions to reduce carbon emissions requires a multifaceted approach.

- Evelyn Wang, Gail E. Kendall Professor and Department Head

MechE Connects is the bi-annual newsletter for MIT's Department of Mechanical Engineering (MechE). Each issue explores one theme that reflects the cutting-edge research being conducted at MechE, in addition to providing an overview of the latest departmental news.

In the Winter 2020 issue of MechE Connects, we highlight some of the technologies our faculty, alumni, and students are developing to promote sustainable energy. From renewable energy conversion to energy efficient windows and cleaner combustion, members of the MechE community are conducting groundbreaking research that could have lasting impact in the fight against climate change.

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MechE Connects Video

PhD candidate Peter Godart '15, SM '19, PhD has developed a device that uses aluminum debris to power desalination and generate electricity after natural disasters.

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This Issue's Stories

Alumni Profile: RJ Scaringe SM ’07, PhD ‘09

Alum RJ Scaringe SM '07, PhD '09 is founder and CEO of Rivian Automotive which is building the world’s first all-electric adventure vehicle.

Talking Shop: Assistant Professor Sili Deng

Assistant Professor Sili Deng is conducting research to help make combustion more efficient, reliable, safe, and clean.

Research Focus: Preventing energy loss in windows

Heat that escapes or enters windows accounts for roughly 30% of the energy used to heat and cool buildings. Researchers are developing a variety of window technologies that could prevent this massive loss of energy.

Student Spotlight: Peter Godart '15, SM '19, PhD Candidate

PhD candidate Peter Godart '15, SM '19, PhD has developed a device that uses aluminum debris to power desalination and generate electricity after natural disasters.

Class Close-Up: 2.S999

Students taking class 2.S999 propose plans to make MIT’s campus carbon neutral by 2060 in their final projects.

Featured Article: Going clean

Researchers across MIT’s Department of Mechanical Engineering are racing to develop energy conversion and storage technologies from renewable sources such as wind, wave, solar, and thermal.