Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

A grant from the Louisiana Board of Regents will fund a Louisiana Tech University researcher’s efforts to develop next-generation materials to improve the performance and sustainability of clean energy technologies. 

Dr. Kevin Nixon, assistant professor of Chemical Engineering in the College of Engineering and Science, was awarded $69,000 to study new bio-based materials designed for use in hydrogen fuel cells, an emerging technology that produces electricity with minimal environmental impact. 

“Renewable energy is the future. To make it a reality, we must develop materials that can meet real-world performance standards,” said Nixon. “It’s pretty exciting for me as a first-year faculty member to be awarded funding from such a competitive program,” he added. 

Fuel cells rely on specialized materials called proton exchange membranes, which help move positively charged ions to generate electricity. However, current materials are very expensive and often require high humidity to work effectively, which can weaken their structure and reduce efficiency. Nixon’s research aims to solve this challenge by designing new polymers made from renewable, bio-derived sources such as plant biomass. These materials are engineered to better manage water at the microscopic level, allowing fuel cells to operate efficiently even in less humid conditions. 

The project focuses on creating materials that not only perform better but are also recyclable and more environmentally friendly than traditional petroleum-based options. Beyond fuel cells, the technology has potential applications in areas such as dehumidification systems, water electrolysis for hydrogen production, and water desalination, technologies that are critical for addressing global energy and water challenges. 

From a regional/state perspective, the research also strengthens Louisiana’s growing presence in advanced materials and polymer science. 

“This work represents an exciting step forward for our program and highlights the innovative research our faculty are leading in sustainable materials and energy,” said Dr. Joan Lynam, Chemical Engineering program chair. “Dr. Nixon’s work not only advances clean energy solutions but also helps position Louisiana as a leader in polymer science and engineering.” 

The funding represents an early-career milestone for Nixon and supports foundational research that could lead to larger federal grants and long-term advancements in sustainable energy materials.

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