Researchers from Huairou Laboratory Win “Best Presentation Award” at 2025 World Fuel Cell Conference

Recently, the 2025 World Fuel Cell Conference (WFCC) was held in Hong Kong, bringing together top scientists, industry experts, and young scholars from around the world for an in-depth discussion on cutting-edge topics such as fuel cell technology innovation and clean energy applications. Researchers from the Fundamental and Frontier Research Center of Huairou Laboratory, including young scientists Sun Zhipeng, Feng Jiangyuan, and Ph.D. interns Zhang Xiyuan and Han Tianyi, were invited to present academic reports at the conference, each receiving the Best Presentation Award.

At the conference, Sun Zhipeng delivered an academic report titled “Design and Performance Optimization of Quintuple Perovskite Air Electrode Materials,” in which he systematically presented breakthrough progress in the field of air electrode materials for reversible solid oxide cells (RSOCs). To address the instability of traditional electrode materials under prolonged high-temperature operation, the research successfully developed novel quintuple perovskite materials with both high catalytic activity and structural stability. This work provides a key solution for improving the energy conversion efficiency and service life of RSOCs.

Feng Jiangyuan presented a report titled “Investigation on the Mechanism of Oxide Ion Migration Based on Machine Learning Molecular Dynamics Methods.” His research centered on simulation studies of materials related to SOFC (Solid Oxide Fuel Cell) electrolytes, leveraging high-precision machine learning force fields in combination with molecular dynamics and density functional theory (DFT) approaches. The study delved into the ionic conduction mechanisms of proton-conducting materials, revealing the significant impact of ion interactions and defect structures on conduction behavior, and enabled accurate predictions of the electrochemical performance of materials under various conditions.

Zhang Xiyuan, a Ph.D. intern, gave a presentation entitled “Degradation Mechanism of Large-Area PEM Fuel Cells under High-Temperature, Low-Humidity, and Dynamic Load Conditions.” His research offered new insights into the non-uniform degradation mechanisms of large-area proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The study identified the main causes of degradation under high-temperature, low-humidity, and fluctuating load environments, analyzed and reconstructed the spatiotemporal evolution patterns of the degradation process, and provided a solid foundation for the optimization of membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) and the development of system health management strategies.

Han Tianyi, also a Ph.D. intern, presented a report titled “Optimization of Oxygen Transport Performance in Fuel Cells Based on Low-Cost Ionomer Additives.” This study explored high-oxygen-permeability ionomer additives by introducing additives into commercial ionomer materials and examining the relationship between additive dosage and performance outcomes. The analysis clarified the dominant influence mechanisms and elucidated the functional role of the additives. The findings offer effective strategies for enhancing fuel cell performance, highlighting their cost-effective promise for practical implementation.

Huairou Laboratory has long been committed to advancing fundamental research and international cooperation in the energy field. By selecting and sending outstanding young researchers to participate in high-level academic exchanges, the lab provides a key platform for showcasing scientific achievements and engaging with global frontiers. Looking ahead, Huairou Laboratory will continue to deepen its efforts in international collaboration and talent development, empowering more young scholars to shine on the world stage and contributing to global energy transition and sustainable development.