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PolyU researchers develop breakthrough method for self-stimulated ejection of freezing droplets, unlocking cost-effective applications in de-icing

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 January 2025 – Water droplets under freezing conditions do not spontaneously detach from surfaces as they do at room temperature due to stronger droplet-surface interaction and lack of an energy transformation pathway. Since accumulated droplets or ice have to be removed manually or with mechanical equipment, which is costly and inefficient, preventing droplet accretion on surfaces is both scientifically intriguing and practically important. Researchers at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have invented a ground-breaking self-powered mechanism of freezing droplet ejection that allows droplets to shoot themselves away, paving the way for cost-efficient and promising technological applications.

A research team led by Prof. Zuankai Wang, Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation), Kuok Group Professor in Nature-Inspired Engineering and Chair Professor of the PolyU Department of Mechanical Engineering (front row, left), and Prof. Haimin Yao, Associate Professor of the PolyU Department of Mechanical Engineering (front row, right), has invented a self-powered mechanism of freezing droplet ejection that allows droplets to shoot themselves away. Research team members include Postdoctoral Fellow Dr Huanhuan Zhang (back row, 1st from left), PhD student Mr Wei Zhang (back row, 2nd from left), Research Assistant Professor Dr Yuankai Jin (back row, 2nd from right), and PhD student Mr Chenyang Wu (back row, 1st from right).

Published in Nature Chemical Engineering as the cover feature for its last December issue, the research project “Freezing droplet ejection by spring-like elastic pillars” is led by Prof. Zuankai WANG, Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation), Kuok Group Professor in Nature-Inspired Engineering and Chair Professor of the PolyU Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Prof. Haimin YAO, Associate Professor of the PolyU Department of Mechanical Engineering. First co-authors include Postdoctoral Fellow Dr Huanhuan ZHANG, PhD student Mr Wei ZHANG, Research Assistant Professor Dr Yuankai JIN, and PhD student Mr Chenyang WU.

The discovery of the self-ejection phenomenon in freezing droplets was inspired by a fungus capable of shooting its spores away through osmosis-induced volume expansion. Noting that a similar volume expansion occurs when water droplet is freezing, the research team has replicated the self-shooting mechanism found in the fungi and developed a structured elastic surface (SES) with spring-like pillars and wetting contrast that allows for the spontaneous ejection of freezing water droplets.

The SES structure is designed to accelerate the ejection velocity and enlarge the kinetic energy transformation of freezing droplets. When the freezing droplet undergoes volume expansion, it compresses the pillar of SES. The volume expansion work is first converted to and stored as elastic energy in the pillar within tens of seconds, and then to be transformed into the droplet’s kinetic energy rapidly within milliseconds. This thousandfold reduction in timescales leads to sufficient kinetic energy to drive freezing droplet ejection.

The simple SES structure, after parameter design, is effective in ejecting freezing droplets without external energy input and even against the forces of wind and gravity. It can be applied to aircraft, wind blades or cable lines to prevent hazards caused by ice accretion. Dr Huanhuan Zhang said, “It is exciting that we, for the first time, introduce a self-powered ice removal concept that will offer a wide range of innovative solutions. We will continuously improve the design of SES, allowing it to be manufactured at various scales and at a low cost to meet societal needs.”

Furthermore, the theoretical model developed in the research elucidates the factors determining the successful onset of the freezing droplet ejection phenomenon, with scalable design exhibiting potential practicability in various fields.

Prof. Wang envisions, “This nature-inspired research paved the way for numerous impactful applications. We believe that the freezing droplet ejection, as a prototype, could stimulate the development of self-powered concepts and methods for a wide range of purposes such as de-icing, energy harvesting and soft robotic applications.”

Specifically, droplet ejection induced by volume expansion enhances understanding of multi-phase freezing dynamics for anti-icing applications. Prof. Yao remarked, “Our research demonstrates a strategy to efficiently harness and utilise the volume expansion work of freezing droplets to generate ballistic motion. This could subsequently expand the application of energy conversion phenomena, and inspire the development of droplet-based energy generators and soft robotic catapults.”

Hashtag: #PolyU #Nature-inspiredResearch #De-icing #SoftRobotics #香港理工大学 #仿生研究 #除冰 #飞机积冰 #软件机器人

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First-ever Coca Cola® Drone Show in Hong Kong 600 Drones Present 12 Scenes of Mesmerizing Memories with Coca-Cola over Victoria Harbour – Featuring a Heartfelt Expression of Love by Renowned Celebrity Louis Cheung

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 February 2025 – This year’s Coca‑Cola® Chinese New Year Campaign Grand Finale – “Meet on 2.14: Together, Share Your Heartfelt Wishes with Coca-Cola” – completed on a high note tonight at Ocean Terminal Deck, Harbour City in Tsim Sha Tsui, transforming the night sky over Victoria Harbour into a vibrant stage overhead.

At the event, 600 drones presented a mesmerizing 12‑scene light show, while the ever‑charming Louis Cheung Kai Chung delivered a warm and heartfelt narration on stage – guiding the audience through cherished moments of gathering with family, friends, and colleagues for a sweet, unforgettable Valentine’s evening. The time limited check-in spots and photo zones at Ocean Terminal Deck will remain open throughout Valentine’s weekend, inviting locals and visitors alike to come together with their loved ones!

Hong Kong’s First 600-Drone Sea Launch Performance
Chinese New Year is a time for reuniting with family and loved ones. This season, Coca‑Cola® has launched a series of events which began with the time limited festive edition packaging featuring a dazzling fireworks design signifying heartfelt New Year wishes. This was followed by a lucky draw where winners got together on the second day of the Chinese New Year to indulge in traditional “poon choi” while immersed in a fireworks performance on a vessel. The grand finale, “Meet on 2.14: Together, Share Your Heartfelt Wishes with Coca-Cola”, not only marked the first-ever Coca‑Cola® drone show in Hong Kong but also set a new milestone as the city’s first drone performance featuring 600 drones launched from a barge on the water.

Coca-Cola Drone Show Photo 2

12 Acts of Drone Light Art, Guided by Louis Cheung
The drone performance was kicked off by distinguished guests including Sally Cheng Wai Lee, Senior Frontline Marketing Director – Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macau & Mongolia, Coca-Cola China Limited, Lily Chu Wai Shan, Sales & Marketing Director, Swire Coca-Cola Hong Kong Limited, Kitman Tang, Executive Director – Macau Coca-Cola Beverage Co. ltd and Louis Cheung. Dazzling fireworks illuminated the night sky, heralding the start of the show. The drones then formed the iconic Coca‑Cola® bottle, perfectly simulating the effect of a refreshing drink being poured into a glass. They seamlessly transitioned into a series of images – depicting famous local meal moments including fish balls, siu mai, hotpot gatherings, and celebratory toasts – that rekindled fond memories of joyful reunions shared over Coca‑Cola® with family and friends. With his signature warm and engaging tone, Louis Cheung narrated live on stage, remarking, “Truly, when a family gathers around for a hearty meal and shares Coca‑Cola®, it becomes the most heartwarming and joyous moment.”

The 600 drones then transformed into a globe and a vivid red “福” (blessing) character, symbolizing the heartfelt wishes being sent to everyone near and far. Finally, the drones converged to form the fireworks pattern featured on the time limited Coca-Cola Chinese New Year packaging accompanied by the Chinese slogan “Blooming Blessings, Together Always(綻放祝褔 年一在起)” and the iconic Coca‑Cola® logo. As Louis Cheung put it, “Coca‑Cola® has been with us through countless times of togetherness. Whether it’s those jubilant occasions that call for a celebratory toast or the simple, everyday moments of joy, Coca‑Cola® makes each moment even more delightful!”

Weekend Exclusive: “Blooming Blessings” Check-in Spots at Ocean Terminal Deck
Seize the opportunity to speak your heart and let your blessings shine! This weekend (February 15-16, 2025), the “Blooming Blessings” Check-in Spots at Harbour City Ocean Terminal Deck in Tsim Sha Tsui will be open to the public. The venue features two exclusive limited-time installations – along with a “Heartfelt Blessings Wall” – providing the perfect backdrop for capturing sweet, memorable moments with your loved ones, family, and friends.

You can not only create your very own personalized blessing video on site, but also snap a photo at any of the check-in spots and upload it to Instagram using the tags @CocaColaHK, #綻放祝福 and #年在一起 to receive a complimentary ice-cold can of Coca‑Cola® No Sugar.

Coca-Cola Drone Show Photo 3

“Meet on 2.14: Together, Share Your Heartfelt Wishes with Coca-Cola” Check-in Spot Details

Date: February 15-16, 2025 (Saturday & Sunday)
Time: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Harbour City Ocean Terminal Deck, Tsim Sha Tsui
Admission: Free

Note: All complimentary beverages are limited and will be available on a first‑come, first‑served basis while supplies last. All promotional offers are subject to availability; the organizer reserves the right to final decisions.

Hashtag: #@CocaColaHK #綻放祝福 #年在一起 #CocaColaHK #RealMagic

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About The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company is a total beverage company, offering over 500 brands in more than 200 countries. In Hong Kong, the company has a portfolio covering sparkling, sweetened and unsweetened tea, juice, sports drink, water, enhanced hydration beverages, etc. We have 12 brands offering 70 different variants such as “Coca-Cola”, “Coca-Cola No Sugar”, “Coke Plus”, “Sprite”, “Fanta”, “Schweppes”, “Bonaqua” Mineralized Water, “Authentic Tea House”, “Minute Maid”, “Minute Maid Qoo”, “Yeung Gwong”, “Aquarius”, “Healthworks”, “Kochakaden” CRAFTEA” and “OOHA”. We are constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. Learn more about us on Coca-Cola’s Facebook and Instagram.

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HIDDEN and Defence Collective Singapore Announce New Initiative to Strengthen National Security Awareness through “Escape Quest: Operation Broken Oath”

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Available from February 2025 at Singapore Discovery Centre, New Interactive Game Aims to Champion National Education

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 February 2025 – In commemoration of Total Defence Day on 15 February, HIDDEN and Defence Collective Singapore are excited to announce the launch of their new, interactive game, “Escape Quest: Operation Broken Oath”. This engaging and educational game is designed to raise awareness of national security challenges while encouraging active participation in safeguarding Singapore’s future. Defence Collective Singapore is the parent company of Singapore Discovery Centre, Singapore Navy Museum and Singapore Air Force Museum. The first stop will take place at Singapore Discovery Centre with plans to expand the programme to Singapore Navy Museum and Singapore Air Force Museum.

The game features an AI chatbot “Void Deck Cat” to interact with visitors at the Singapore Discovery Centre, placing players in the midst of a simulated national crisis, where they must make quick, strategic decisions to defend the nation and prevent the next attack. Users can jump into action on any mobile device without needing to download additional applications as the gameplay revolves using the Whatsapp chat application.

Total Defence Day on 15 Feb commemorates the fall of Singapore in 1942, serves as a poignant reminder on the need for a strong Defence.

“Escape Quest: Operation Broken Oath” offers a fun and innovative way for Singaporeans of all ages to engage with the concept of national defence and take on a proactive role as stewards of security. This immersive game combines strategy, problem-solving, and teamwork, offering a thrilling experience that challenges players to think like investigators.

Escape Quest: Operation Broken Oath is more than just a game,” says Lim Yee Hung, Group Chief Executive of HIDDEN. “It is an interactive learning experience that empowers individuals to think critically about national security and the vital role that each of us plays in keeping Singapore safe. With the increasing complexity of security threats, it is important that we all stay informed, prepared, and resilient—this game is one way to achieve that.”

“Defence Collective Singapore is happy to collaborate with HIDDEN in launching ‘Escape Quest: Operation Broken Oath’ as part of Total Defence Day,” says Geraldine Loh, Deputy Director, Programmes Cluster Head for Defence Collective Singapore. “Through this initiative, we hope to inspire a culture of security, mindfulness and proactive engagement, where every Singaporean can play a part in making Singapore stronger. By gamifying the concept of national security, we aim to make the learning process both informative and enjoyable.”

Perfect for corporate team-building, school groups, and anyone seeking a unique, interactive adventure, the game starts from S$20 per ticket for each player.

For more information, visit go.hiddenxp.com/brokenoath
Hashtag: #TotalDefenceDay #TotalDefenceSG #NeverAgainSG #SingaporeHistory #SGHeritage #EscapeQuestSG #HiddenXP #OperationBrokenOath #ImmersiveExperience #GamifiedLearning #InteractiveAdventure #DefendSingapore #NationalSecuritySG #StayPrepared #StrongerTogetherSG #SGDefence #DefenceCollectiveSG #SingaporeDiscoveryCentre #NavyMuseumSG #AirForceMuseumSG #HIDDENSingapore #TeamBuildingSG #SchoolExcursionSG #EducationalGames #LearnThroughPlay





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About HIDDEN

HIDDEN is an award-winning experiences company that combines the physical and virtual worlds to help players uncover hidden gems in a city’s iconic neighbourhoods. Launched in 2022, the company is the brainchild of two childhood friends who wanted to make heritage come alive and easily accessible through games and technology.

As a social enterprise under the United Nations Development Programme, HIDDEN is committed to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment and decent work for all.

For more information, please visit

About Defence Collective Singapore

Defence Collective Singapore (DCS) champions our defence story through immersive galleries and engaging experiences, to inspire everyone to defend what it means to be Singaporean: our home, our identity, and our way of life.

A defence-inspired museum collective, DCS pays homage to Singapore’s resolve and determination and its journey, which has brought the nation to where it is today. The museums include the Singapore Discovery Centre, the Singapore Navy Museum, and the Singapore Air Force Museum. More military-themed museums, like the Army Museum and the NS Gallery, will join the DCS family soon.

For more information, please visit

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Generali Hong Kong and YAS Partner to Enhance Personalized Insurance Solutions

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 February 2025 – Generali Hong Kong has partnered with YAS to deliver innovative, customer-centric insurance solutions that adapt to modern lifestyles. This collaboration focuses on leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance the customer experience and provide tailored protection.

From left: William Lee, Co-Founder of YAS, Windian Lai, Chief Business Officer and Intermediary Management of Generali Hong Kong, Andy Ann, Co-Founder of YAS

Built on the foundation of their success in on-demand microinsurance, this partnership introduces dynamic, real-time insurance offerings that seamlessly integrate into customers’ lives. By leveraging advanced technology to enable smarter underwriting and personalized experiences, Generali Hong Kong continues its mission to deliver meaningful and accessible protection to its customers in the digital age.

Dynamic Insurance Solutions Embedded in Daily Life
The collaboration between Generali Hong Kong and YAS introduces solutions designed to modernize insurance. The first initiative, launched in November 2024, is embedded within the AlipayHK ecosystem. This solution dynamically adjusts travel coverage up to 20 times based on travelers’ spending, capped at HK$100,000, offering a flexible and relevant product for frequent travelers.

Generali Hong Kong leverages advanced technology to enhance its underwriting capabilities, enabling real-time risk assessments to better align insurance products with customer activities and needs. This approach represents a significant step forward in providing insurance that is relevant, adaptable, and customer-focused.

Windian Lai, Chief Business Officer and Intermediary Management of Generali Hong Kong, said, “This partnership with YAS allows us to integrate technologies such as GPS and AI into our personal lines underwriting. These tools enable us to deliver real-time solutions that adapt to customer lifestyles, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.”

William Lee, Co-Founder of YAS Group, added, “Customers today demand more than traditional insurance; they want solutions that fit seamlessly into their lives. This partnership with Generali Hong Kong allows us to lead the industry into a new era of autonomous, always-on insurance solutions that resonate with the modern lifestyle.”

Key Benefits for Customers:

  • Tailored Coverage: Advanced technology enables policies that adapt to individual behaviors, preferences, and needs.
  • Seamless Experiences: Automated processes simplify everything from quotes to claims, creating a frictionless insurance journey.
  • Dynamic Flexibility: Coverage adjusts in real-time to changing circumstances, giving customers greater control and peace of mind.


Windian
added, “This initiative highlights Generali Hong Kong’s ability to respond quickly to market demands and deliver innovative solutions. With over 600,000 weekly border-crossing travelers in the region, this product addresses a growing need for flexible, real-time travel coverage.”
Hashtag: #Generali #YAS

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Generali Hong Kong

In 1981, Assicurazioni Generali S.p.A. was first registered as an authorised insurer in Hong Kong, with the business extending into the life insurance sector in 2016 with Generali Life (Hong Kong) Limited. With a combination of local knowledge and Generali Group’s global expertise, we develop unique and innovative life insurance, general insurance, specialty insurance, and employee benefits solutions to meet the needs of our customers.

Generali Group

Generali is one of the largest global insurance and asset management providers. Established in 1831, it is present in over 50 countries in the world, with a total premium income of € 82.5 billion in 2023. With around 82,000 employees serving 70 million customers, the Group has a leading position in Europe and a growing presence in Asia and Latin America. At the heart of Generali’s strategy is its Lifetime Partner commitment to customers, achieved through innovative and personalised solutions, best-in-class customer experience and its digitalised global distribution capabilities. The Group has fully embedded sustainability into all strategic choices, with the aim to create value for all stakeholders while building a fairer and more resilient society.

About YAS

YAS is a pioneer in embedded insurance solutions, focusing on delivering hyper-personalized protection seamlessly integrated into digital ecosystems. YAS is redefining how enterprise and customers interact with and benefit from insurance. YAS is turning ideas into reality for the future of insurance that is fair, seamless and meaningful.

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