The generation and efficient use of power and energy are at the center of a variety of ongoing engineering and societal problems.
Catalysts, which are critically important to more than 35% of the global GDP, are an important key to increasing energy efficiency and in contributing to a clean environment. In partnership with the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, WSU is positioned to be a national leader in developing, testing and using catalysts to advance society.
Did you know?
A research team from PNNL and WSU developed a new catalyst material that could replace chemicals currently derived from petroleum and be the basis for more environmentally friendly products, including fuel additives, bio-based rubber for tires and a safer solvent for the chemicals industry. More information.
Professors Su Ha and Grant Norton are developing new, innovative catalysts to make energy-efficient fuel cells commercially viable. With support from Boeing and the National Science Foundation they are making a solid-oxide fuel cell – a device that cleanly and efficiently converts chemical energy into electricity – that is compatible with current and future aviation fuels including biofuels. Boeing is working on an innovative concept called the More Electric Airplane (MEA) that will enable future aircraft that are cleaner, quieter, and more fuel-efficient. The company is working to increase fuel efficiency, through the use of fuel cells, by substituting hydraulically and pneumatically driven systems with electrical ones. The researchers have formed a spin-off company for the commercialization of their novel catalysts.
Affiliated Centers, Institutes and Labs
Bioproducts, Sciences & Engineering Laboratory (WSU Tri-Cities)
The Bioproducts, Sciences and Engineering Laboratory (BSEL) is a partnership between WSU and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) operated by Battelle. BSEL features the Biorefinery and the Combinatorial Catalysis Research Lab, plus a variety of laboratories and classrooms. Learn more.
Institute for Integrated Catalysis at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
The Institute for Integrated Catalysis at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory facilitates collaborative research and development in catalysts for a secure energy future. Learn more.
Degree Programs
Related degree programs are available in these departments: