Clean Energy Technologies
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Clean energy research develops and deploys innovative technologies to address pressing global energy and environmental issues. WSU researchers are advancing alternatives to fossil fuels by developing technologies for methods such as hydrogen storage and bio-based fuels. They also lead technology developments aimed at securing the nation’s electrical power grid, and in radiochemistry and atmospheric transport research that seeks to minimize the environmental impact of energy production and consumption. Related social and behavioral science research informs the selection of technologies and strategies for their sustainable application and positive societal benefit.
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M. Grant Norton (at right),
associate dean of research and graduate programs,
College of Engineering and Architecture and
professor in the School of Mechanical and
Materials Engineering, envisions a day when
drivers will fill their cars at a fuel pump
dispensing hydrogen rather than gasoline.
Hydrogen fueled vehicles would reduce our
nations’ dependence on foreign oil while
protecting the environment. However, before
hydrogen powered cars are a common site on our
nations’ highways, scientists must come up
with a means to safely store and then release
hydrogen fuel, in amounts sufficient for private
cars. In 2001, Dr. Norton and University of Idaho
physics professor David McIlroy were the first
scientists to create nanosprings. |
Areas of research preeminence
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