Bimetallic catalyst knowledge-based development for energy applications
BIKE (BImetallic catalysts Knowledge-based development for Energy applications) is a network for training of T-shaped young promising scientists (early stage researchers, ESRs), who will develop and apply, by an innovative “holistic” approach, the next generation of bimetallic catalysts for energy management, in particular for blue and green hydrogen production processes. BIKE next generation bimetallic catalysts will exhibit superior performance under realistic conditions thanks to the combination of state-of-the-art tools (predictive modelling, advanced characterization, knowledge based design and novel preparation of catalysts, and explorative testing) in a single methodology to fully exploit their added value in a synergistic way. The explosive growth of blue and green hydrogen production in recent years, due to its importance in environment and energy fields, has created a strong need of qualified personnel both in the private industry: a) manufacturing; b) R&D; c) management, and in the public sector i.e. (i) academia, (ii) research centres, including (iii) management. The goal of the BIKE ITN is to address this need by providing a team of 14 qualified ESRs with a comprehensive and application-oriented knowledge of the H2-field, able to span from preparation to characterization, modelling, industrial applications, and marketing of H2-related catalyst materials, and to interact with all the stakeholders working in the field. This goal is achieved by devising a cross sector, application-oriented, multi-disciplinary and synergic intense training plan at 12 European research centres leaders in the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen (FCH) field, in academia and public research institutions (9) and industry (3), integrated with soft skills components, exchange meetings, workshops, schools, courses as appropriate to pursue the BIKE's goal. Industrial members will strongly contribute to cross sector training and validation in industrial environment of BIKE bimetallic catalysts.