Group leader: Dr. Mihalis Tsampas
The research at CEPEA focuses on electrochemical membrane reactors for solar fuel production and the electrification of the chemical industry. At the core of our activities are Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM), Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM), Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cell (PCEC), and Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell (SOEC) systems. Our work spans the full spectrum from material and component development to the design and operation of laboratory-scale systems, with the overarching goal of developing scalable solutions. We utilize a variety of polymeric and ceramic ion-conducting materials to couple renewable energy-driven processes with applications such as water electrolysis, nitrogen and carbon dioxide fixation. Our materials synthesis strategies include nanostructuring approaches aimed at increasing electrocatalyst active surface area and enabling atomic-level control over exposed catalytic sites. In addition, we are actively developing novel methodologies in which electrochemical processes are enhanced by light or plasma to overcome intrinsic material and process limitations.