Scientists from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore and Imperial College London have formed a strategic partnership aimed at advancing green fuel cell technology.
This collaboration, fueled by a new grant, focuses on developing ammonia as a clean fuel source. This project is part of the CREATE Thematic Programme in Decarbonisation, an initiative launched by Singapore’s National Research Foundation to improve the country’s hydrogen usage capabilities and sustainable aviation fuel production pathways.
One of the project’s main focus areas is the development of direct ammonia solid oxide fuel cells (DA-SOFCs). Ammonia is gaining traction as a viable hydrogen carrier because of its high energy efficiency and scalability potential. These fuel cells could become an efficient and scalable energy source for various applications. Professor Chan Siew Hwa, Co-Director of the Energy Research Institute at NTU, leads this ammonia fuel cell project, reflecting its significant potential for reducing carbon emissions across industries like transportation and urban infrastructure.
The partnership between NTU and Imperial contributes to the broader efforts of both Singapore and the UK to transition to cleaner energy sources, tackling climate change proactively. This collaboration continues their previous successful partnership in the IN-CYPHER programme, which aimed to strengthen cybersecurity in healthcare. Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative and Green Plan 2030 will benefit significantly from this project as it aligns with Singapore’s goal of adopting low-carbon hydrogen for power generation, supporting the country’s net zero emissions target by 2050.
NTU and Imperial are leveraging their combined expertise in materials and energy to push the boundaries of sustainable energy solutions. Professor Lam Khin Yong of NTU emphasizes the importance of this partnership, stating that it integrates top-tier knowledge from globally recognized institutions committed to developing sustainable energy solutions. Professor Mary Ryan from Imperial College notes the critical role of international collaboration in addressing global challenges such as transitioning to clean fuel.
