DEMADES project
At the heart of DEMADES project lies a pioneering approach to developing next-generation electrocatalysts tailored for efficient, sustainable hydrogen production. Our methodology integrates green chemistry principles, advanced nanostructuring techniques, and multidisciplinary expertise, resulting in materials that are not only high-performing but also environmentally responsible.
1. Eco-Friendly Solvent Systems
Traditional catalyst synthesis often relies on hazardous organic solvents and energy-intensive processes. DEMADES disrupts this paradigm by employing Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs), a novel class of biodegradable, non-toxic, and tunable solvent systems. DESs enable precise control over catalyst morphology, composition, and surface characteristics, offering a cleaner and more sustainable route to material fabrication.
2. Tailored Nanostructures for High Efficiency
Our research focuses on engineering nano-structured electrocatalysts with optimized surface area, porosity, and active site distribution. These characteristics are critical for enhancing the performance of the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER). We explore both metal-based and carbon-based catalysts, including innovative foam substrates, which offer exceptional conductivity, mechanical stability, and scalability for industrial applications.
3. Rational Design and Composition Control
Through in-situ characterization techniques and computational modeling, we gain insights into the atomic-level behavior of catalysts under operational conditions. This deep understanding guides the rational design of catalyst systems with improved catalytic kinetics, reduced overpotentials, and enhanced long-term durability.
4. Sustainability and Lifecycle Thinking
Beyond efficiency, our approach is rooted in environmental consciousness. Each stage of material development is evaluated for its ecological impact using a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). This ensures that our catalyst solutions are aligned with both technical performance and sustainability criteria, contributing meaningfully to decarbonisation efforts.
5. Multidisciplinary Integration
Our research model is inherently collaborative and cross-disciplinary, involving experts in:
Materials science and nanotechnology
Electrochemistry and catalysis
Chemical and process engineering
Theoretical modeling and environmental science
This integrated approach enables us to bridge the gap between fundamental research and real-world implementation, accelerating the pathway from laboratory discovery to practical deployment in clean hydrogen technologies.
Interdisciplinary & Interregional Collaboration
A cornerstone of DEMADES project is the strong, coordinated collaboration between leading Slovak research institutions, each contributing unique expertise and resources. This partnership not only ensures scientific excellence but also reinforces the project's interdisciplinary and interregional character, strengthening innovation capacity across Slovakia.
🌐 Key Partner Institutions
Centre for Advanced Materials Application SAS, Bratislava
As a hub for cutting-edge materials research, CEMEA SAS leads the development of advanced nanostructured materials, specializing in surface engineering, chemical synthesis, and nanomaterial integration. Their expertise in electrochemical characterization and eco-friendly processing methods plays a pivotal role in the synthesis and evaluation of high-performance electrocatalysts.
Institute of Electrical Engineering SAS, Bratislava
The Institute of Electrical Engineering brings deep knowledge in electrochemistry, energy conversion systems, and electrical interface technologies. Their contribution ensures a strong link between material properties and real-world electrochemical performance, bridging the gap between nanomaterials and practical applications in hydrogen technologies.
Institute of Materials Research SAS, Košice
The IMR SAS offers specialized skills in materials design, microstructure analysis, and durability testing. Their focus on foam-based substrates and long-term stability studies complements catalyst development efforts, ensuring the materials can withstand industrial-scale application conditions.
🔄 A Truly Interdisciplinary Approach
DEMADES project seamlessly integrates disciplines including:
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Chemistry & Green Synthesis
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Physics & Surface Science
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Materials Engineering & Nanotechnology
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Electrochemical Systems & Energy Conversion
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Environmental Science & Sustainability Assessment
This cross-disciplinary integration fosters innovation beyond traditional research silos, resulting in more holistic and impactful solutions.