Current Research Areas

Hydrogen is currently on the energy strategy of all major governments of the world and electrolysis of water using electrolysers coupled with renewable energy supply is one promising route that many are following. But what are the challenges along the way? This section dives deep into some of these challenges.

Solid Oxide Fuel Cell technology is able to achieve over 60% electrical efficiency and over 85% CHP (Combined Heat & Power) efficiency at a system level. This technology has the potential revolutionise the power generation sector and complement renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. Another advantage of the SOFC technology is that it is multi-fuel compatible meaning, it is able to use an array of fuels (both gases & liquids). However, building and operating SOFC systems is not common knowledge. This section provides information on how to build and develop Solid Oxide Fuel Cell systems for applications where this technology really matters.

Countries that fall under the category of 'Hot, humid & tropical' need cooling solutions for buildings, homes and other places that will enable people to stay at a comfortable temperature indoors when the sun is blazing outside. Most of these cooling solutions are air-conditioners based on vapour compression technology and come with extremely high energy costs, viz. electricity costs. This section looks into ways and means of making cooling solutions sustainable, environmentally friendly and low cost. The first approach is by making use of renewable or residual heat in driving a thermally driven cooling system wherever possible and the second approach is to look at retrofit solutions that will increase the efficiency of the air-conditioning system.

Photosynthesis is a process in which plants capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and together with sunlight and water make long hydrocarbon chains (sugars) and oxygen. Now what if this process can be replicated by mankind, wouldn't that be wonderful? CO2 can be captured at a faster rate and made into products that will benefit mankind.