Abu dhabi: The UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP) hosted the 12th session of its Rain Enhancement Hub Webinar Series under the theme: 'Design and Testing of Natural Substance Flare Packaging for Cold Cloud Seeding.' The session was delivered by Siripen Somruen, Scientist at the Royal Rainmaking Technology Research and Development Division in Thailand.
According to Emirates News Agency, Siripen Somruen presented her research on finding natural alternatives to silver iodide for glaciogenic seeding. Her work focuses on using eco-friendly substances with strong ice-forming abilities, which are packaged in specially designed flares and tested for their effectiveness in cold cloud seeding. The goal is to develop more sustainable materials and dispensing methods for weather modification applications.
Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Director General of the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) and President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), emphasized the potential of rain enhancement to diversify water resources and reduce dependence on traditional supplies. He noted the importance of advancing novel rain enhancement technologies to support long-term water security and environmental sustainability. The webinar series serves as a platform for scientific exchange and research collaboration.
Alya Al Mazroui, Director of UAEREP, expressed gratitude for the insights shared by Siripen Somruen, highlighting the importance of environmental considerations in cloud seeding. The Rain Enhancement Hub Webinar Series facilitates knowledge exchange to deepen scientific understanding and promote practical applications in this research domain. UAEREP aims to ensure cloud seeding technologies remain effective and environmentally responsible through the development of advanced materials.
UAEREP continues to support innovative research projects to enhance precipitation. Notable successes include the work of Prof. Linda Zou, a UAEREP First Cycle awardee and Adjunct Professor at Victoria University in Australia. Her research utilized nanotechnology to develop novel cloud seeding materials, positioning the UAE as the only country using nanotechnology-based core-shell NaCl-TiO2 (CNST) materials in operational cloud seeding. These materials, composed of safe ingredients, are effective in enhancing precipitation across various humidity levels.
The UAEREP Rain Enhancement Hub Webinar Series is a global platform fostering collaboration, disseminating scientific advancements, and inspiring innovation in weather modification and water security. It enables experts to share scientific developments and engage with the broader community, raising awareness about the importance of weather modification technologies in addressing global water challenges.