Center for Electrochemical Science and Engineering:
Mission

The primary mission of the Center for Electrochemical Science and Engineering of Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) is to forge industry-IIT partnerships for the development and commercialization of electrochemical technologies for stationary and mobile applications. To achieve this objective, the center:

• Carries out basic and applied research.
• Provides strategic direction and operational support as required in cooperative research with industry.
• Develops innovative educational programs with concentrations or specializations in electrochemical science and engineering.
• Communicates and transfers research and analytical results to industry.

Center activities are framed by IIT's strategic outlook of the energy future.

The electrochemical technology base is an essential element in developing a sustainable global energy system-a system that does not require fossil fuels as a primary energy source.

Electrification is critical to sustainability because it is the only practical means for utilizing renewable energy sources. Hydrogen is destined to become the sustainable transportation fuel in an electrified global economy. The most likely transition fuel will be natural gas because of its abundance, relatively low cost and superior properties, including high hydrogen content, clean combustion characteristics and ease of utilization in high-efficiency power generation.

Fuel cells, batteries and electrolyzers are the enabling technologies for a sustainable electric power economy. In combination with electrolyzers, fuel cells also offer the most effective means of storing electricity in the form of hydrogen.

Demonstrations have shown that electromotive drive powered by fuel cells, coupled with rechargeable batteries, can triple automotive efficiencies. Industry and government agencies widely acknowledge that the future of surface transport is linked to electrochemical technology. However, until a hydrogen refueling infrastructure has been developed, gasoline or methanol will have to serve as an on-board source of hydrogen produced by rapidly advancing fuel-processing technologies.

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