Members

Synthesis, modification, activation and characterisation of (porous) inorganic and hybrid organic-inorganic materials for application in catalysis, separation, sorption and others. Synthesis-property-performance correlation.

Plasma and plasma-surface interactions : computer modelling and experiments, for various applications: CO₂, CH₄ and N₂ conversion into value-added chemicals and fuels, plasma medicine, microelectronics and nanotechnology, analytical chemistry.

Innovations in circular and sustainable processes by integrating early stage (ex-ante) sustainability assessment with strategic experimental and in silico research: chemical recycling of plastics & catalysis.

The core research activities within ELCAT are related to the development of state-of-the-art electrochemical reactors and catalysts, with a view towards large-scale industrial development in the field of industrial electrification, in a green and sustainable way to ultimately replace the traditional chemical processes. The scope there is to improve controllability, flexibility and energy efficiency of the reactions through electrocatalyst development and reactor design. This research can thus be subdivided in three main topics, which are interrelated: (i) electrocatalysis, (ii) electrosynthesis and (iii) electrochemical reactor engineering.

​Tom Breugelmans 

Technologies for solar-to-chemical energy conversion, purification of various side and waste streams, carbon sequestration and nutrient valorisation.

CO₂ utilization and circular economy, avoiding CO₂ emissions via the electrification of industrial processes, storage and release of H₂. CFD-assisted design of (bio)chemical reactors following process intensification techniques.

Analyses of environmental and sustainability issues within multiple economic sectors such as agricultural, energy, waste and security.

Valorisation of renewable residual and by-product streams, giving waste a second life, and making chemical products and processes more sustainable