Catalysis and Surface Chemistry
Enhanced mechanistic understanding and new materials are needed for energy-intensive and energy–producing catalytic processes. We are studying gas-surface chemistry and catalytic processes on well-characterized surfaces and materials.
Materials for Li-Ion Battery Electrodes
New electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries are essential for reducing greenhouse gases and enhanced utilization of renewable energy sources. We are trying to identify new materials and nano-structures for use as electrodes in advanced lithium-ion batteries.
Advanced Carbon Materials
Advanced nitrogen-doped porous carbons for efficient CO₂ capture and gas separation. Our work focuses on tuning pore structures to enhance CO₂ selectivity and studying both single- and multi-component adsorption through isotherm and breakthrough experiments.
Solar Photocatalytic Materials – Sunlight to Fuels
We are testing and trying to discover cheap, durable, and efficient materials as well as device strategies and nano-morphologies for use as photocatalysts for converting cheap feed-stocks (e.g., water or carbon dioxide) into renewable fuels (e.g., H2) using sunlight as an energy source.