Research summary
Electrochemical energy systems, such as batteries, water electrolyzers, and fuel cells, are seen as promising approaches for energy storage and conversion because of their high energy densities and zero or negative carbon dioxide emissions. They are expected to play a key role in the shift from fossil fuel-based transportation to renewable energy-based transportation. Advances in fuel cell technology can reduce costs, increase sustainability and accelerate commercialization. As Canada Research Chair in Fuel Cell Science and Technology Development, Dr. Erik Kjeang is trying to enhance the longevity of electrochemical energy conversion systems.
He and his research team are discovering the key degradation mechanisms in electrochemical devices, developing modelling tools for longevity predictions in electrochemical energy systems, and coming up with strategies to enhance longevity in these systems. Their work will help the fuel cell industry capture a significant part of the global automotive fuel cell market and become a billion dollar supply chain in Canada. Broad adoption of fuel cell technologies will substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.