Engineering a Low-Carbon Future

ZHONGCHAO TAN RESEARCH GROUP

Eastern Institute of Technology, Ningbo

We connect catalysis, functional materials, and carbon assessment to advance energy and environmental technologies—from fundamental discovery to engineering applications.

Explore Our Research Meet the Team

About Our Group

Led by Professor Zhongchao Tan, Chair Professor and Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering, our group conducts interdisciplinary research at the intersection of energy, chemical engineering, environmental materials, and carbon management.

We combine materials synthesis, process and reactor development, and environmental assessment to translate scientific insights into practical technologies.

Research Highlights

Three connected research priorities link advanced materials and manufacturing with energy and environmental performance.

Conceptual illustration of carbon nanotubes, catalyst particles, and hydrogen molecules.

Carbon–Hydrogen Co-production and Carbon Utilization

Turning carbon resources into valuable materials and energy products.

We investigate catalytic hydrocarbon decomposition for the co-production of hydrogen and functional carbon materials, including carbon nanotubes. Complementary research explores the catalytic and electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide into useful chemicals, connecting catalyst development with reactor engineering and materials applications.

Focus: Nanocatalysts · Carbon Nanotubes · Hydrogen · CO₂ Conversion

Conceptual illustration of electrospinning and a functional fibrous membrane.

Functional Nanofibers for Energy and the Environment

Engineering fine structures for useful functions.

We develop electrospinning and near-field electrospinning approaches to create functional micro- and nanofiber structures. Our research connects fiber fabrication and architecture with applications in filtration, water collection, energy systems, and sensing, including controlled fabrication of two- and three-dimensional structures.

Focus: Electrospinning · Fiber Architectures · Filtration · Sensing

Conceptual illustration of a battery product life cycle and industrial carbon assessment.

Carbon Footprint and Low-Carbon Transition

Connecting emissions assessment with engineering decisions.

We use life cycle assessment, carbon flow analysis, and emissions accounting to understand the environmental impacts of products and industrial systems. Our work includes battery carbon footprints and assessment platforms, supporting the identification of emission hotspots and practical pathways toward lower-carbon production.

Focus: Life Cycle Assessment · Product Carbon Footprints · Battery Systems · Emissions Reduction

Conceptual illustrations of our research themes.

From Discovery to Application

Our work connects fundamental research, technology development, engineering demonstration, and technology transfer.

Through collaboration with academic and industrial partners, we pursue solutions that link material performance, process development, and environmental impact.

Connect with Us

We welcome opportunities for academic exchange and research collaboration in clean energy, advanced materials, and carbon management.

Contact the Group