Building a strong path toward a sustainable future

Building a strong path toward a sustainable future

Throughout 2024, the University of Alberta’s Chemical and Materials Engineering Department demonstrated why it is globally recognized for its strength in research and education of skilled graduates for the energy and natural resources sectors.

Showcasing a commitment to aligning with shifting government and market priorities towards sustainable processes, the department introduced two new options to the Bachelor of Chemical Engineering Program: Clean Energy & Sustainable Process Systems and Bioprocessing & Biomanufacturing. Faculty members of the department secured more than $6-million in critical minerals and contributed to innovative solutions in related areas such as energy and environment, sustainable development and clean production of materials and chemicals.

Mohd Khan, assistant professor and principal investigator of the Energy Transition Lab, furthered his work aimed at reducing carbon emissions in the $15-billion steel industry. Jing Liu, associate professor of materials engineering, conducted an interdisciplinary project to design and manufacture advanced materials for small modular nuclear reactors, which aim to supply clean energy using materials that can safely operate under extreme performance conditions. Along with professor and associate dean Hao Zhang, Liu also led the development of a ground-breaking superalloy of nickel and aluminum that has the exciting potential to be used in hydrogen combustion engines as a coating material.

These are a few examples of the many outstanding efforts of department members throughout this year. We look forward to witnessing how the department will continue to contribute to a more sustainable future.