Hanoi University of Science and Technology's legacy through 'legendary' projects

Hanoi University of Science and Technology's significant contributions to the nation include solutions for magnetic mine and bomb clearance, the 500 kV North-South power line, and fighter jet shelters made from polymer composite.

Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST) organized its Science and Technology Achievements and Innovation exhibition on 9/10, featuring 180 typical products and projects from generations of faculty and students.

Among the highlights is the research project on solutions for magnetic mine and bomb clearance, led by the late Professor, Doctor of Science Vu Dinh Cu, along with scientists and collaborators from HUST and the Ministry of Transport.

This project was carried out in 1972 under difficult conditions. Despite the challenges, the scientists successfully identified the operating principles and detonation mechanisms of these devices. This understanding enabled the creation of various clearance equipment to neutralize such ordnance. In 1996, the project was awarded the Ho Chi Minh Prize.

Another significant undertaking is the calculation project for the design of the 500 kV North-South ultra-high voltage power transmission line. This was executed by Professor Tran Dinh Long, La Van Ut, and scientists from the Electrical Systems department. The technical solutions proposed were instrumental in the successful operation of the power line, marking HUST's contribution to the development of the national power system.

Further research includes the fabrication of aircraft shelters using fiberglass polymer composite. These shelters are lightweight, inexpensive, and durable, comparable to steel and concrete structures, and serve the Air Defense - Air Force Service. Professor Tran Vinh Dieu and the Polymer Materials Research Center carried out this project.

Fifty-three domes were installed between 1995 and 2000. For his contributions, Professor Tran Vinh Dieu was awarded the title of Labor Hero in 2000.

Other notable projects include the Truong Son gas station, which supported the Road 9, Southern Laos campaign; research and manufacturing of high-pressure pump nozzles for diesel engines; BKAV, an early antivirus software in Vietnam; and BKED, Vietnam's first Vietnamese language editor and processor.

Professor Le Anh Tuan, President of Hanoi University of Science and Technology, stated that this exhibition cannot encompass all the university's contributions to science, technology, and innovation. However, he noted that typical, valuable, and recognized projects are featured.

The exhibition also showcases recent research projects by the university's faculty and students across many fields, including: Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Telecommunications, Automation, Information Technology, Mechanical Manufacturing, Chemistry, Materials, and Education.

"I am proud that previous generations at HUST have made great contributions to the nation," shared Nguyen Tuan Minh, a second-year student in Electronic and Telecommunications Engineering. "This motivates me to participate in scientific research early to gain a deeper understanding of my field of study."

Established in 1956, Hanoi University of Science and Technology is the nation's first technical university and a multidisciplinary and multi-field training, scientific research, and technology center. Currently, the university trains approximately 38,000 learners across 160 programs, from bachelor's to doctoral levels.

Professor Tran Vinh Dieu (fourth from left) and Air Defense - Air Force Service officers in front of the aircraft hangar project at Kep airport in 1997. *Photo: HUST*

Prime Minister Vo Van Kiet inspects the construction site of the 500 kV North-South power line. *Archival photo*

A pair of high-pressure pumps in a state-level project. *Photo: HUST*

Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan and delegates visit Hanoi University of Science and Technology's exhibition on the afternoon of 9/10. *Photo: HUST*