Arizona State University (ASU) doctoral student, Daniel Rivera, has been named a runner-up for the 2023 Young Investigator Best Paper Award by the renowned physics and chemistry journal, Surface Science. Rivera’s groundbreaking research focuses on preventing sulfur poisoning in palladium-based membranes using electric fields, a crucial development in the purification of hydrogen gas.
Palladium, a silvery-white metal discovered in 1802, is widely used for purifying hydrogen, a critical element in various industrial processes such as refining petroleum and semiconductor manufacturing. However, over time, the efficiency of palladium membranes is reduced due to sulfur poisoning caused by chemical reactions between hydrogen sulfide and palladium.
Rivera’s innovative approach involves using electric fields to prevent sulfur corrosion on palladium membranes while maintaining purification efficiency. By aligning a strong field toward the membrane surface, Rivera found that hydrogen molecules could pass through easily, preventing sulfur molecules from sticking and causing corrosion.
The significance of Rivera’s research extends beyond the realm of hydrogen purification. He envisions potential applications in the petroleum industry, where the use of palladium membranes could simplify hydrogen production processes, saving significant energy costs and promoting environmental sustainability.
Looking ahead, Rivera plans to explore the effects of electric fields on palladium-copper composites to further enhance purification efficiency. His ultimate goal is to contribute to addressing global challenges related to water safety and clean energy production through innovative research in computational chemistry.
Rivera’s advisor, Christopher Muhich, an assistant professor of chemical engineering at ASU, praises Rivera’s achievement and acknowledges the potential impact of his findings in various industries. Rivera’s dedication to finding sustainable solutions for critical global issues reflects his commitment to making a positive impact on the environment and society as a whole.
