Research
​​Our research focuses on development of efficient catalysts for new energy conversion systems for sustainable development.
​We tackle the issues of hydrogen generation and utilization, carbon management and future energy supply.
Study on heterogeneous catalysis at atomic/molecular level
- Catalysis for Energy Conversion for sustainable society -
We pursue disruptive innovations in catalysts and catalytic systems to address the grand challenges of future energy supply.
Our research focuses on the critical transition from conventional fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. We not only develop novel catalysts but also strive to understand their reaction kinetics and mechanisms at the molecular level. Our materials span a wide range, including metal nanoparticles, oxides, nitrides, carbides, sulfides, molten salts, and beyond.
Bridging the gap between thermo-, electro-, photo- and microwave-catalysis, our work is driven by strong international collaborations, aiming to translate fundamental discoveries into practical industrial applications.
Disruptive technology starts with disruptive thinking, from day one
We are committed to advancing the green transformation through pioneering research in catalysis. Our focus is on sustainable pathways for hydrogen production, COâ‚‚ conversion, and ammonia synthesis, which are essential to a carbon-neutral society. We don’t follow conventional paths — we begin with disruptive concepts to open entirely new directions in catalysis. By integrating thermocatalysis, electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, and microwave catalysis, we not only harness diverse energy inputs but also bridge these disciplines, exploring the boundaries where new chemistries emerge. This cross-cutting approach deepens fundamental understanding while accelerating the creation of transformative technologies, connecting scientific discovery to real-world impact for a sustainable future.
Quantitive description of catalysts, reactors, and beyond
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Our study is grounded in a holistic principle that integrates microkinetic analysis at the molecular level with the exploration of beyond-catalyst properties extending above the catalyst surface. To capture the catalyst’s true nature, we employ operando analysis, enabling direct monitoring of working conditions and unveiling dynamic structure–activity relationships during reactions. These molecular-level insights are then scaled up through multiphysics simulations, which design reactor, operating conditions and predict product yields with precision. All of this is carried out through a chemical system engineering approach rooted in system thinking, seamlessly linking descriptions from the atomic scale to the device and reactor levels. This synergy establishes a rational and disruptive framework for advancing catalysis and reactor engineering.
Reactions of interest include:
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