Zengran’s Three Minute Thesis
The Switchable Method to Develop Efficient Catalysts
Throughout human history, gasoline has fueled our march towards modernization. Yet, this progress comes with a significant environmental cost: each gallon of gasoline burned releases approximately 20 pounds of CO2 into the atmosphere, driving climate change. Image if we could tap into green fuels that meet our energy needs without the carbon footprint—fuels as clean and renewable as those from a fairy tale.
Chemical engineers, including myself, are pioneering innovative methods to produce such green fuels. We use catalysts, akin to tiny, magical helpers, to accelerate the conversion of plant waste into renewable biofuels.
My research focuses on designing these catalysts to be more efficient and durable. By employing a switchable method—think of it as flipping a light switch on and off—I create catalysts that are smaller, more robust, and longer-lasting. This breakthrough significantly reduces the cost of green fuels, making them accessible to all. Thus, efficient catalysts promise cheaper and cleaner fuel options for our vehicles and industries, drastically reducing the pollutants we emit into the air we breathe.
The potential of this switchable technique extends far beyond. It is adaptable for developing numerous types of novel catalysts, each capable of transforming waste into valuable fuels. Hence, they reduce our reliance on gasoline and aid in decreasing atmospheric CO2 levels. Together, we are not just making green fuels; we are powering a future where each step towards cleaner fuel represents a leap towards a greener and healthier planet.
I was born and raised in Shenyang, China. I earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering at WSU and stayed to pursue a Ph.D. in chemical engineering. Cougars for life (why not)! I enjoyed hiking, biking, and reading in my spare time.