On January 19, a delegation from the University of Padova’s Department of Industrial Engineering in Italy, led by Head of the Department of Industrial Engineering(DII)Professor Fabrizio Dughiero, visited ICARE to explore opportunities for collaboration. The delegation included Coordinator of the Internalization of DII Professor Lucia Nicola and Consultant of Engaging High level Chinese University of DII Mr.Zuo Jinbao. They were warmly welcomed by ICARE's Chinese Dean, Professor Luo Xiaobing, Vice-Dean Dr. Zou Mingqing, the Director of the Research Office Professor Hu Song, and other faculty members. The two parties engaged in a productive and in-depth exchange.

During the visit, Professor Dughiero delivered an academic presentation titled "Electrothermal Technologies for Sustainable Industrial Thermal Processes: Fundamentals and Case Studies." As Chairman of SMACT, an organization promoting Industry 4.0 in Italy, and founder of UNISMART, a foundation affiliated with the University of Padova, he provided insights into the practical application of research outcomes, such as electrothermal technologies, in industrial contexts. He also shared details on talent cultivation and research initiatives at the Department of Industrial Engineering. A lively Q&A session followed, with active participation from both faculty and students. The delegation toured ICARE’s Thermal Packaging Laboratory and the National Key Laboratory of Coal Combustion and Low-Carbon Utilization. Guided by Professors Luo Xiaobing and Hu Song, they gained insights into ICARE’s research advancements in thermal management, micro-pumps, and 300KWth supercritical CO2 Power Cycle&Boiler system. Both parties strongly desired to leverage their strengths to foster collaboration in education, research, faculty and student exchanges, and joint projects. They aim to achieve distinctive results that support global sustainable development.

The University of Padova, founded in 1222, is one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Renowned for its research excellence, its Department of Industrial Engineering focuses on energy, materials, aerospace systems, and electrical and mechanical systems. ICARE formalized its partnership with the department at the end of last year, targeting collaborative efforts in clean energy to promote green initiatives and global sustainability.