Our laboratory conducts interdisciplinary research on polymer membranes and composite materials for water electrolysis, fuel cells, gas separation, and energy storage systems. By integrating functional polymer design, inorganic nanomaterials, and transport-phenomena-driven analysis, we aim to develop next-generation electrochemical materials with high ionic conductivity, low gas permeability, and outstanding durability under demanding operating conditions.
Our research focuses on polymer-based membranes for energy and environmental applications, with particular emphasis on ion and gas transport phenomena. By rationally designing functional polymers and controlling free volume and microphase-separated structures, we develop advanced polymeric membranes and mixed matrix membranes. These membranes are applied to gas separation, electrochemical systems, and harsh operating environments, where precise control of permeability, selectivity, and durability is critical.
We study ion exchange membranes and solid electrolytes as key materials for water electrolysis and fuel cell systems. Our research addresses fundamental structure–transport–stability relationships under alkaline and anion exchange membrane water electrolysis conditions, including ion conductivity, gas crossover, and chemical durability. In parallel, we extend our work to fuel cell environments, aiming to design membranes that enable high efficiency, long-term stability, and scalable electrochemical energy conversion.
Our laboratory develops polymer composites and nanocomposites to simultaneously enhance mechanical, transport, and electrochemical properties. By incorporating inorganic nanomaterials, porous supports, and nano-structured electrodes, we tailor interfacial interactions and hierarchical structures within polymer matrices. These composite materials are applied to membranes, solid electrolytes, and energy storage devices, providing multifunctional platforms for next-generation electrochemical and separation technologies.