Designing nano electrocatalysts, quantum simulations of particle interactions and trapped ions are three Waterloo Science research projects broadening disciplinary horizons and delivering real-world impact. Waterloo scientists Anna Klinkova, Christine Muschnik and Crystal Senko each received funding through the Government of Ontario's 2022 Early Researcher Awards program.
Curbing carbon and nitrogen emissions is the central environmental challenge for the twenty-first century. Ammonia in wastewater discharge from human activities, including agriculture and landfill, is a growing concern because of its detrimental impact on aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, both carbon and nitrogen emissions from human activity result in climate change. When ammonia naturally degrades it produces nitrous oxide - which has a 298 times higher global warming potential compared to carbon dioxide - a well-recognized greenhouse gas. Anna Klinkova, an assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry and member of the Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, is designing electrocatalysts to convert these waste molecules into value-added products.
Electrochemical technologies provide potential solutions to convert harmful emissions and waste into fuel. However, poor efficiency and selectivity in current reaction systems prevent their wide-spread commercial adaptation. Klinkova's research will help develop high-performance catalysts for an integrated electrochemical treatment of carbon and nitrogen waste by establishing a leading-edge nanoscience framework for their rational design. The scientific and technological advances of this research will facilitate Ontario’s transition to a circular economy.
Congratulations Anna, Christine and Crystal!