Energy Efficiency

Abstract

Chemists play an enormous role in the creation of new processes that minimize the use of energy. A fundamental understanding of the role of kinetics and thermodynamics in optimizing the space-time yield of a desired product is essential. Processes run at ambient temperatures and pressures minimize the use of energy. BioAmber invented a microbial catalyst to produce commodity succinic acid. Microwave energy is a mixed bag—laboratory-scale microwaves are incredibly inefficient, while large-scale industrial microwave processes are more efficient than conventional heating. Yoon's photocatalyst system uses abundant visible light energy, giving high yields of single-enantiomer cyclobutanes. UniEnergy has commercialized a vanadium water-based redox flow battery for stationary uses, and the Madsen group invented a conducting polymer/ionic liquid electrolyte for lithium batteries that prevents fire. Cargill developed a soybean oil-based transformer fluid that is more efficient and less toxic than PCB fluids. Chemists are also central in converting biomass into liquid transportation fuels and inventing new solar photovoltaic materials for capturing abundant solar energy directly.