Prof. Julio Lloret-Fillol, Group Leader at ICIQ, will work on new processes for producing fuels.

Renewable energies and sustainability are the main focus of ICIQ’s research. Concretely, the project is coordinated by Prof. Julio Lloret-Fillol, Group Leader at ICIQ, is aimed at discovering new processes for producing fuels through the automated development of catalysts. “Electrochemical processes powered by renewable energy sources (sun, wind, etc.) can transform abundant molecules (water, CO₂, etc.) into synthetic fuels and chemicals in a sustainable manner. In particular, electrocatalytic reduction of CO₂ (CO₂RR) promises to offer sustainable and economically viable industrial production of CO₂-neutral renewable fuels”, he summarizes. However, he recognizes that current electrocatalysts still lack the requirements for industrial development. With this project, Lloret-Fillol aims to develop highly active, selective, and robust catalysts. The scientist admits that discovering new catalyst requires decades of research and development. Moreover, he asserts that “automating laboratory research is the first key step towards this goal”.

This research is significant and will contribute to the implementation of new energy sources for the industry, promote transfer and facilitate innovation. The Ramón Areces Foundation has awarded grants worth 2.35 million euros to 19 research projects that will be carried out over the next three years in Spain. The general objective of these Research Grants is to promote a strong research structure in our country, focusing on areas of greatest need and promoting Spanish science, particularly its young talent. The project leaded by Julio Lloret-Fillol joins 19 other projects and over 97 scientists who will work to address major social challenges.