Chair of Materials Processing Engineering
Materials for the energy transition
At the Chair of Materials Processing Engineering, we focus on materials science aspects of electrochemical energy conversion and storage. The main emphasis lies on technologies such as fuel cells, redox flow batteries, and lithium ion batteries, as well as the sustainable production of green hydrogen and the conversion of CO₂ into valuable chemical products. The goal is to contribute to the development of efficient and durable energy systems through a deeper understanding of the underlying processes. We cover the entire value chain, from the synthesis of promising materials to their processing into porous electrodes and their use in single cells under technically relevant operating conditions.
A particular focus of our research is the targeted nanostructuring of functional materials, as their properties are strongly governed by structural features at the nano and microscale. In addition, we intensively study the processing of porous layers, which play a key role in mass transport, reaction kinetics, and electrochemical performance. We employ methods such as electrospinning and various templating strategies to create defined pore structures and high active surface areas.
For the characterization of materials and especially electrocatalytic processes, we use modern in situ and operando methods. Synchrotron based X ray absorption spectroscopy allows us to investigate structural and electronic changes of electrocatalysts under real operating conditions. This enables a detailed understanding of activation and conditioning processes, degradation mechanisms, and elementary reaction pathways. These insights form the basis for the targeted optimization of materials with respect to activity, stability, and efficiency.
Through the close integration of materials synthesis, process development, and advanced analytical techniques, we contribute in an interdisciplinary way to the advancement of sustainable energy systems and the transformation toward a climate neutral energy supply.
Contact
Prof. Dr. Christina Roth
Phone: 09 21 - 55 -7200
Mail: christina.roth@uni-bayreuth.de
https://www.lswv.uni-bayreuth.de/de/index.html