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Research Overview
Our lab is dedicated to advancing the science and engineering of electrochemical systems that are high-performing, durable, and cost-effective. We combine laboratory-scale analytical techniques with physics-based simulation tools to investigate the fundamental mechanisms that limit current technologies. Our primary focus is on understanding the interplay between kinetics, transport, and degradation phenomena under realistic operating conditions. Using the insights gained, we apply engineering principles to design and assess electrochemically active materials and to envision and develop innovative electrochemical processes and systems. While our approach is broadly applicable, our current efforts are concentrated on the following research areas:
Electrochemical exsolution
Ammonia production from water and nitrogen
Syngas production from water and carbon dioxide
Multiphysics simulation for solid oxide cell
Electrochemical Exsolution
The emergence of metal nanoparticles on electrode surfaces is critical for enhancing activity in a range of electrochemical processes, including water and carbon dioxide electrolysis, hydrocarbon dehydrogenation, and more. Electrochemical exsolution—the rapid, polarization-driven segregation of metal nanoparticles—offers a dynamic and controllable method to activate catalytic sites within seconds to minutes. Our lab investigates the fundamental mechanisms governing this phenomenon and aims to expand its applicability. By integrating experimental approaches with physics-based simulations, we develop design principles for next-generation electrocatalysts with improved performance, durability, and selectivity.
Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis
Ammonia production is traditionally an energy-intensive process that contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. As a sustainable alternative, our lab investigates electrochemical pathways for ammonia synthesis, with a particular focus on solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs). These systems enable the direct conversion of water and nitrogen—two abundant and simple molecules—into ammonia, offering a promising route toward carbon-neutral production. Our research aims to uncover the fundamental mechanisms of this electrochemical process and to overcome the key scientific and engineering challenges that currently limit its efficiency and scalability.
Sustainable Syngas Production
Syngas (a mixture of CO and H₂) is a crucial feedstock for the synthesis of a wide range of chemicals and fuels. Traditionally, it is produced through steam reforming of hydrocarbons—a highly energy-intensive process that emits significant amounts of greenhouse gases, posing major challenges to sustainability.
To address this, our lab is developing advanced electrocatalysts for the electrochemical production of syngas from CO₂ and H₂O—abundant and renewable resources—using solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs). This carbon-neutral approach holds immense promise, particularly when integrated with intermittent renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power.
Our research focuses on identifying and overcoming the key factors that limit the efficiency of these electrochemical processes. We design and engineer electrocatalysts based on a deep understanding of reaction mechanisms at the electrode surface, employing a combination of advanced characterization techniques—including surface, bulk, and structural analyses—to guide and validate our designs.
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