Electrochemical Science and Engineering

Electrochemical applications offer promising avenues for sustainable development, revolutionizing energy systems and industrial processes. The Electrochemical Science and Engineering research group is dedicated to exploiting the power of electrochemistry for a greener future. With a primary focus on energy conversion and storage, as well as the electrosynthesis of valuable bio-based products, our multidisciplinary team delves into valuable research in various domains.

Our specific emphasis spans a range of areas of interest, including advancing Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) to drive efficient and clean energy production. Through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), we unravel the intricate science behind electrochemical reactors, guiding their engineering for enhanced performance and reliability. Furthermore, we address pressing global challenges by exploring Electrochemical Water Disinfection techniques for potable purposes, ensuring access to safe drinking water, and facilitating sterilization in various applications.

Additionally, our group is aimed at exploring the potential of Electrosynthesis of Biomass-Derived Value-Added Products, unlocking the potential of renewable resources for sustainable chemical production. Complementing these efforts, our expertise in Process Design and Simulation enables the optimization of electrochemical processes for maximum efficiency and scalability. 

Mission

Our mission is to drive sustainable development through the advancement of electrochemical technologies, focusing on cleaner energy production, efficient water treatment, and eco-friendly chemical synthesis methods.

Goals

  1.  Strive for continuous development of the electrochemical systems including Solid Oxide Fuel Cells, Li-Ion Batteries, and Electrolyzers
  2. Focus on creating solutions that contribute to cleaner energy production, efficient water treatment, and eco-friendly chemical synthesis methods.
  3.  Embrace an interdisciplinary approach, combining expertise in experimental and theoretical research, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and process simulation to address complex challenges in electrochemical science and engineering.

Project Portfolio

Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC)

Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) represent a pivotal advancement in clean energy technology, operating at elevated temperatures to efficiently convert fuels into electricity. Central to their success is the intricate process of fuel oxidation at the anode, where hydrogen, methane, or other hydrocarbons undergo electrochemical reactions, producing electrons. The significance of fuel oxidation lies in its role as the primary source of electrical current generation within the SOFC. Understanding and optimizing this process are paramount for enhancing cell performance, longevity, and overall efficiency.

Our closed and on-going SOFC projects represent a comprehensive exploration of electrochemical processes crucial for efficient energy conversion. Through a blend of experimental and theoretical approaches, we’ve delved into the intricate realms of hydrogen (H2), carbon monoxide (CO), and syngas oxidation on nickel and ceria-based pattern anode cells. Our findings include identifying the rate-limiting steps in oxidation and developing competitive kinetics for these vital fuel components. Furthermore, our investigations extended to understanding the impact of fuel contaminants, such as HCl and H2S, on SOFC performance and stability. Simultaneously, we reported steam reforming kinetics and synthesized perovskite-based anode materials tailored for low-temperature SOFC applications. This multidimensional research approach marks a significant contribution to advancing the understanding and performance optimization of SOFCs, emphasizing their role in sustainable energy solutions.

Ongoing projects are targeted at:

      • Synthesize perovskite-based anode materials tailored for low-temperature SOFC applications.
      • Expand the materials portfolio, offering potential solutions for diverse SOFC operating conditions.
      • Explore the impact of fuel contaminants (HCl and H2S) on SOFC performance and stability.
      • Seek to deepen the understanding of electrochemical processes during fuel oxidation.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)

In our dedicated pursuit of understanding Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) anodes through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), our sequential projects have marked significant strides. Initially, we meticulously crafted Three-Phase Boundary (TPB)-based kinetics, drawing insights from experimental data obtained from patterned anode cells. This foundational work enabled us to delve further, quantifying TPB density in practical cermet electrode cells, thereby establishing a critical correlation between effective TPB density and active anode thickness. In our ongoing research trajectory, we are directing our focus toward predicting the impact of contaminants on TPB density, leveraging the power of CFD tools. This foresighted approach not only advances our understanding of SOFC systems but also holds the promise of optimizing their performance in the face of real-world challenges, underscoring the indispensable role of computational modeling in shaping the future of electrochemical technologies.

Objectives of Ongoing Projects include:

      • Utilize Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) tools to predict the impact of contaminants, specifically HCl and H2S, on the Three-Phase Boundary (TPB) density within Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) anodes.
      • Leverage insights obtained from contaminant predictions to optimize the overall performance and stability of SOFCs under real-world operating conditions
      • Investigate and enhance the understanding of electrochemical processes on promising SOFC anodes, aiming to improve the accuracy and applicability of performance models for nickel and ceria-based SOFC systems.

Electrochemical Water Disinfection

In our pursuit of advancing water treatment technologies, our research group has achieved a significant milestone through the development of an electrochemical water disinfection system. Through meticulous design and innovation, we have successfully created a working prototype capable of disinfecting water to meet drinking standards. Our focus extends beyond mere functionality; we have systematically optimized operational conditions to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Successful completion of this project underscores our commitment to providing clean drinking water and showcases the potential of electrochemical methods in addressing the water quality challenges. This project marks a significant step forward in our mission to create sustainable solutions for accessible and safe water resources. Future outlook of the project at:

      • Implement the developed electrochemical water disinfection system in real-world settings.
      • Conduct extensive testing to validate its performance under diverse conditions.
      • Explore opportunities for scaling up the technology to cater to larger communities and regions.

Electrosynthesis of bio-based value-added products

In our project on the Electrosynthesis of Biomass-Derived Value-Added Products, we delve into the transformative realm of electrochemical hydrogenation. Focusing on biomass-derived building blocks like glucose and furfural, we aim to unlock the potential for creating high-value products. Through innovative electrochemical processes, we harness the power of sustainable feedstocks to synthesize compounds with enhanced commercial and industrial utility. This endeavor aligns with our commitment to green chemistry and sustainable practices, offering a pathway to produce valuable materials while minimizing environmental impact. We aim to contribute in the science and engineering of electrochemical methodologies for the synthesis of bio-based value-added products.

Process Design and Simulation

We aim at exploring the innovative process design and simulation for methanol production using CO2 captured from flue gas and green hydrogen. Leveraging the expertise of our group members trained in utilizing the Aspen Plus process simulator, we aim to develop a sustainable and efficient method for methanol synthesis. By incorporating captured CO2 and green hydrogen, our approach aligns with environmental consciousness and green chemistry principles, offering a promising pathway to reduce carbon emissions while producing a valuable chemical. Through meticulous simulation and design, we strive to contribute to the advancement of eco-friendly methods in methanol production, fostering a greener and more sustainable future. The specific objectives of the ongoing activities include:

      • Conduct a comprehensive techno-economic feasibility study to assess the economic viability of the proposed green methanol synthesis process.
      • Investigate and implement process intensification strategies to enhance the efficiency and productivity of the green methanol synthesis process.