Our research aims to develop metal- and ceramic-based inorganic nanoparticles with enlarged specific surface area and optimized crystal structures to achieve high activity in heterogeneous catalytic reactions. For energy applications, we designed and synthesized 1D and 2D conductive inorganic materials for flexible electrodes as well as organic electrolyte materials with high ionic conductivity and mechanical flexibility. These functional materials were fabricated using scalable processes to ensure practical applicability and industrial relevance.
Our research aims to improve the conversion and selectivity of thermal and liquid-phase catalytic reactions using noble metal (Pt, Au, Ir, etc.) or non-noble metal (Ni, Co, etc.) catalysts. we investigated methane conversion reactions, photocatalytic hydrogen production and carbon dioxide utilization processes. In addition, we analyzed hydrogen evolution reactions (HER), oxygen evolution reactions (OER) and oxygen reduction reactions (ORR) occurring on catalyst surfaces to develop highly active and durable catalytic materials.
Our research aims to optimize electrode structures and the electrode-electrolyte interface for energy storage systems including water electrolysis and metal-air batteries, and for energy conversion devices including solid oxide fuel cells and polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells.