Department of Chemistry - PhD Student Seminar - Alternative to Fuels

Student: Mr. Ho Ming NG

Department: Department of Chemistry, HKUST

Supervisor(s): Professor Henry YAN

Abstract

This seminar explores methanol as a versatile platform for alternative fuels in response to growing energy demand and the uneven distribution of fossil resources. Methanol offers key advantages, including liquid-phase storage, high energy density, and its role as a precursor to value-added chemicals such as olefins and gasoline via established processes like methanol-to-olefins (MTO) and methanol-to-gasoline (MTG). These processes rely on well-developed catalytic systems, particularly zeolites, where pore structure and acidity govern product selectivity and catalyst lifetime. Despite technological maturity, current methanol production remains dependent on fossil-derived syngas, resulting in significant carbon emissions. Transitioning to green methanol, produced from captured CO₂ and renewable hydrogen, faces critical challenges, particularly in water electrolysis. The sluggish oxygen evolution reaction and instability of non-noble catalysts limit efficiency and scalability. Advances in proton exchange membrane and anion exchange membrane electrolysis offer promising pathways, though material stability and cost remain key barriers to sustainable implementation.