Top Recognition for MPI CEC Scientists in ChemElectroChem and Energy Technology

Two publications from the MPI CEC ranked among the top 10% most-viewed papers in 2023

Strong Visibility for Innovative Research

Two research papers by scientists from the MPI CEC were ranked among the top 10% most-viewed articles published in 2023 by the respected journals ChemElectroChem and Energy Technology. This distinction highlights the Institute’s impactful contributions to advancing energy conversion technologies under practical conditions.

Bringing Laboratory Testing Closer to Industrial Reality

The first recognized publication, “Industrially Relevant Conditions in Lab-Scale Analysis for Alkaline Water Electrolysis” (published in ChemElectroChem), addresses a well-known challenge in hydrogen research: bridging the gap between lab-scale results and industrial performance. Co-authored by MPI CEC researchers Dr. Saskia Heumann and Dr. Sebastian Tigges, the study introduces an advanced beaker cell setup that enables long-term testing of electrode materials under industrially relevant conditions - such as high temperatures, concentrated alkaline electrolyte, and realistic current densities. This approach supports more reliable evaluation and development of catalysts for green hydrogen production.

New Tools for Catalyst Discovery in Ammonia Reforming

The second paper, “Challenges in Laboratory Catalytic Testing for Ammonia Decomposition under Industrially Relevant Conditions” (published in Energy Technology), was authored by MPI CEC scientists Dr. Oscar Gómez-Cápiro, Dr. Simon Ristig, Dr. Jan Folke, and Dr. Holger Ruland. Their work presents an automated high-throughput testing setup designed to handle the extreme demands for ammonia decomposition - a key process in hydrogen storage and transport. The study emphasizes selection of durable materials and components, as well as careful reactor and process design, enabling highly reproducible catalyst testing at the challenging conditions required for industrial relevance. The system lays the foundation for identifying catalysts with real-world application potential.

Expertise from the Department of Heterogeneous Reactions

All contributing scientists are members of the Department “Heterogeneous Reactions” at MPI CEC. Dr. Saskia Heumann leads the group "Carbon Synthesis and Applications," where Dr. Sebastian Tigges works as a postdoctoral researcher. The second study was conducted within the group "Catalytic Technology," headed by Dr. Holger Ruland, with Dr. Jan Markus Folke, Dr. Simon Ristig, and Dr. Oscar Gómez-Cápiro contributing as postdocs. Their collaborative efforts reflect the department's mission to develop advanced catalytic systems for a sustainable energy future.

Recognition Reflects Research with Real-World Impact

That both publications were among the most-viewed papers of the year underscores the relevance and timeliness of MPI CEC’s research. By developing testing platforms that better simulate industrial conditions, the scientists are helping to close the gap between fundamental research and practical application - an essential step in the transition to sustainable energy systems. The Institute congratulates all authors on this well-earned recognition.

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