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Green Energy Research and Technologies at Harwell Open Day: Queen Mary Researchers Lead the Charge

23 August 2024

The Green Energy Stall led by Queen Mary academics Dr Xuekun Lu and PhD student Daqing Li
The Green Energy Stall led by Queen Mary academics Dr Xuekun Lu and PhD student Daqing Li
Dr Xuekun Lu introducing lithium-ion battery technologies and materials, followed by stimulating discussions with the audience
Dr Xuekun Lu introducing lithium-ion battery technologies and materials, followed by stimulating discussions with the audience

In the summer of 2024, the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, one of the UK’s leading research hubs, hosted its eagerly anticipated Harwell Open Day. Among the many scientific demonstrations and exhibits, a team of researchers led by Dr Xuekun Lu (senior lecturer in Green Energy) and his PhD student Daqing Li, from the School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, captivated the public with their exhibit focused on renewable green energy technologies and systems.

The event, which attracted more than 10,000 visitors from across the UK, offered attendees a dynamic, hands-on exploration of the latest advancements in renewable energy. The diversity of visitors, from children as young as six to seniors in their 80s, reflected the growing public interest in sustainable energy solutions. The team focused on real-world applications of these technologies, particularly in relation to fuel cell and battery electric vehicles. As the transportation sector moves toward greener alternatives, the insights shared by the team on how these technologies could shape the future of sustainable mobility sparked significant interest among the visitors. The stall became a hub for discussions about how fuel cells and battery technologies could pave the way for zero-emission transportation.

Interactive Demonstrations: Fuel Cells, Water Electrolysers, and Lithium-Ion Batteries

The team set up an interactive stall aimed at educating and inspiring attendees about the future of green energy. Their demonstrations delved into the workings of three major technologies driving the renewable energy revolution: fuel cells, water electrolysers, and lithium-ion batteries.

Visitors were treated to live demonstrations that revealed the inner workings of fuel cells, which generate electricity from chemical reactions, and water electrolysers, which split water molecules to produce hydrogen—a crucial component in many clean energy applications. These hands-on displays offered a rare glimpse into the technologies that could soon become mainstream in the fight against climate change.

Perhaps the most popular section of the exhibit was the demonstration on lithium-ion batteries. These batteries, which are integral to the operation of electric vehicles and consumer electronics, are widely regarded as a key technology for a sustainable future. The researchers discussed the science behind how lithium-ion batteries store and release energy, giving visitors a deeper understanding of their vital role in reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.

With the growing global demand for clean energy, the research team is well-positioned to continue leading public engagement efforts, fostering awareness, and driving innovation. The successful Harwell Open Day exhibition underscores the importance of sharing scientific breakthroughs with the public and encouraging a collective focus on solutions for the future of our planet.

Contact:Xuekun Lu
Email:xuekun.lu@qmul.ac.uk
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