Once again, IMDEA Energy participated in the Madrid es Ciencia fair, organized by the Madrid+d Foundation at IFEMA from March 27 to 29. During the event, we received visits from the Regional Minister of Education, Science, and Universities, Emilio Viciana, and the Deputy Minister of Universities, Research, and Science, Ana Ramírez, who were able to learn about our research and science outreach initiatives up close.

On the first day, the Unit of Advanced Porous Materials impressed visitors with experiments where nanomaterials demonstrated their ability to catalyze chemical reactions. One of the most striking demonstrations was the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide with potassium iodide, a process that released oxygen in the form of foam. The audience could not only witness the reaction but also feel the hear released by this exothermic transformation.

On the same day, the Electrochemical Processes Unit made science shine with experiments where common liquids demonstrated their ability to act as electrolytes, lighting up a bulb with their iconic conductivity. Additionally, we showed how the water changes when reacting with different substances.

The second day was marked by the magic of the Photoactivated Processes Unit, which turned chemistry into alchemy, allowing visitors to discover which Hogwarts house they belonged to through pH reactions and experiments inspired by spells, such as extinguishing a candle with CO2 and raising water using pressure. Even the Regional Minister tried out and wore the Sorting Hat to discover his house.

To conclude the second day, the Electrical Systems Unit tested the public’s knowledge with a Kahoot quiz on renewable energy. Meanwhile, the High-Temperature Processes Unit melted chocolate with concentrated light, demonstrated thermal energy conversion with Stirling engine, and transported attendees to IMDEA Energy solar field through virtual reality.

On the last day of the fair, the Thermochemical Processes Unit showcased the potential of certain materials in water purification and waste valorization. Also present was the Biotechnological Processes Unit, which invited attendees to extract DNA with their own hands and experiment with balloons inflated through fermentation processes.

With this edition, IMDEA Energy once again reaffirms its commitment to science outreach, providing that research is not only essential for the future, but also can but fun and accessible to all. See you at the next edition of Madrid es Ciencia.