Nanocatalyst Lab.
Design and Synthesis of Novel Nanocatalysts
Metal nanocrystals with well-controlled sizes, shapes, and core-shell structures have attracted increasing attention owing to their potential use in catalysis, electronics, and biology. Dr. Choi and his group are interested in the design and synthesis of novel metal nanocrystals, their physicochemical properties, and their application as the chemical and electrochemcal catalysts.
Nanocatalysts for Electrolysis
Hydrogen is regarded as one of the most promising fuels applying in renewable energy systems. Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at the cathode of water electrolyzer has received great interests due to its easily applicable and environmentally friendly approach. The main challenge of this system is the massive consumption of electrical energy for the water electrolyzer, and thus the high cost of hydrogen production. By introducing active and cost effective HER catalysts, the consumption of electrical energy can be greatly reduced. Dr. Choi and his group are interested in the design and synthesis of advanced nanocatalysts which show enhanced HER activity.
Nanocatalysts for Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs)
Platinum-based nanocrystals act as the most effective catalyst for the reactions including oxygen reduction at the cathode and fuel oxidation, such as hydrogen, methanol, and ethanol oxidation at the anode in PEMFCs. However, Pt is one of the rarest and most expensive metals on the Earth, it is highly beneficial to reduce the loading of Pt in processes where it is essential. Dr. Choi and his group are interested in the design and synthesis of Pt-based nanocatalysts to reduce the loading of Pt and enhance the electrocatalytic activity toward the above reactions in PEMFCs.
