MAP excursion to HIERN
On 14 June 2024 a group of MAP students went on an excursion to the Helmholtz-Institut Erlangen-Nürnberg für Erneuerbare Energien (HIERN). It was a unique experience for students to explore research and development in the field of renewable energy.
The visit commenced with an insightful introductory lecture delivered by a former MAP student, Ms. Lucía Morales, who is now pursuing doctoral studies at HIERN. Her presentation offered a comprehensive overview of HIERN’s organizational structure while giving an outline of the nano-testing techniques employed by the institute.
Following the lecture, the students embarked on a series of laboratory tours, starting with coating techniques for electrocatalysts. Here, students gained first-hand knowledge of processes such as doctor blading and roll-to-roll methods, which are instrumental in developing efficient and scalable electrocatalysts. This laboratory also provided a glimpse into the process of electrospinning and the production of nanofibers, highlighting HIERN’s expertise in nanomaterial engineering.
The second laboratory tour explored the field of fuel cells. The students witnessed first-hand research on fully automated fuel cells, gaining a deeper appreciation for the potential of this technology to revolutionize the energy landscape.
In the final laboratory course, students were introduced to a reactor setup designed for dehydrogenation of Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHC). This technology offers a promising solution to the primary challenge of hydrogen energy storage. The tour provided valuable insights into the potential catalyst characteristics required for this process and probable ways of reduction of energy utilization of the process.
Overall, the excursion to HIERN proved to be an intellectually stimulating experience for MAP students. The visit effectively bridged the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications, solidifying the students’ understanding of the critical role advanced processes and materials play in shaping a sustainable energy future.
Many thanks to Lucía Morales and her team for preparing and carrying out the excursion and for the great insights we were able to gain.
By MAP students Vipul Kumar Ambasta and Gunel Safaraliyeva (matriculation group 2023)