This project aims to create a microfabricated lab‑on‑a‑chip for rapid, milligram‑scale gas adsorption measurements in CO₂ capture and solid‑state H₂ storage research.
- Research area: Hydrogen production
- Institution: Cranfield University
- Supervisor: Dr Ali Nabavi
- PhD student: Joseph Clack
Project summary
Developing and understanding new adsorbent materials is essential for the constant development and improvement of carbon capture and solid‑state hydrogen storage. However, conventional adsorption analysis technology is slow, expensive and requires relatively large quantities of sorbent and gas. This limits rapid materials screening.
This project aims to develop a Lab‑on‑a‑Chip Gas Adsorption Analysis (LOC‑GAA). A miniaturised device that integrates gas dosing, equilibration, and sensing into a single microfabricated chip. This system will hope to enable accurate adsorption measurements at a milligram‑scale, drastically reducing experiment time and resource requirements.
We will design and fabricate the LOC-GAA, incorporating micro‑chambers, valves, and pressure sensing for precise gas handling. The device will be evaluated with relevant gases, including CO₂ and H₂, to assess performance of materials for carbon capture and solid‑state hydrogen storage.
Meet the researcher
Hi, I am Joseph, a PhD student at Cranfield University. My background is in chemistry, achieving my master’s at Lincoln University in 2023. I also have four years teaching experience including one year teaching in Japan on the JET programme. I have also completed an internship at Airbus in the department of fuel sciences.
It is my aim to fabricate a lab on a chip platform that can perform gas adsorption analysis that can facilitate and accelerate the screening of viable carbon capture and energy storage materials.
The EnerHy CDT has so far provided opportunities for personal development and engagement into the wider hydrogen economy, including a visit to Diamond Light Source, the the UK’s national synchrotron science facility.