Coupled green ammonia electrosynthesis and industrial wastewater electrolysis

As developed nations such Canada and Japan realize their commitments of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, hydrogen-based fuels such as ammonia will become more important. More effective technologies for “green” ammonia will need to be developed to ensure the sustainable supply of zero-carbon fuels for shipping and electricity generation. I propose to develop effective electrode materials for use in electrochemical devices coupling “green” ammonia production with industrial wastewater electrolysis, minimizing the formation of byproducts by their cooperative use. In the Wilkinson laboratory at the University of British Columbia, I have developed inexpensive titanium-based ceramic electrodes that are stable in the harsh conditions demanded for industrial wastewater electrolysis. The Takanabe laboratory at the University of Tokyo has recognized expertise working with versatile copper-based electrocatalysts, which are effective at forming ammonia from nitrate, a constituent of industrial wastewater. This project will leverage expertise and research infrastructure developed in both laboratories to advance effective materials and electrochemical reactor designs for this coupled process.

Faculty Supervisor:

David Wilkinson

Student:

Partner:

The University of Tokyo

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: