Energy

A group of electrical wires

Researchers in the Chemistry at Lancaster are developing new chemistries to convert and store renewable energy, supporting the transition towards net-zero carbon emissions.

As a major part of our research, we are developing a diverse range of chemical solutions to meet the energy demands of 21st century society.

Testing a battery with a volt metre

Electrochemical energy storage

Rechargeable batteries are a key component of the transition towards net-zero carbon emissions. We are developing new battery chemistries to address current limitations and increase performance, including:

  • Post Li-ion chemistries including Na-ion and K-ion
  • Structural and mechanistic characterisation of commercial and emerging battery electrode materials
  • Aqueous redox flow batteries for long-duration energy storage

Solar energy conversion and storage

The Earth receives abundant energy from the sun, but this energy source is intrinsically intermittent. We are developing new chemical technologies to capture and store solar energy, and to convert it to useful forms.

This work includes:

  • New solar cell materials and architectures
  • Light harvesting materials for photocatalysis
  • Solar-to-thermal energy conversion materials
An academic testing a solar cell
An N2 feedstock in a beaker

Electrochemical synthesis of renewable fuels

Electrochemical processes can be used to produce useful fuels from low-value or waste feedstocks such as CO2 or N2.

Research at Lancaster is developing new approaches for such processes including:

  • Electrochemical CO2 reduction
  • Energy-efficient ammonia synthesis
  • Green hydrogen production
  • B
  • C
  • E
  • F
  • I
  • J
  • L
  • N
  • O
  • Q
  • R
  • S
  • U
  • V
  • X
  • Y

Loading People