Winner of RSC's 2023 Materials Chemistry Horizon Prize: Stephanie L Kwolek Prize - Prof Yan Qingyu

Co-led by Prof Yan (Lead PI) and Prof Yu Guihua from the Texas Materials Institute, University of Texas at Austin, the Electrocatalytic Urea Synthesis Team has been recognised for the development of efficient electrocatalysts to support the conversion of nitrogen towards a more sustainable and economical method of producing urea – a key compound for fertilisers. The team’s innovative approach involves using Indium (III) hydroxide (In(OH)3) to develop a new reaction pathway for urea production, offering a more efficient alternative to the traditional Haber-Bosch method that is energy-intensive and accounts for 2% of total global energy consumption and 2% of CO₂ emissions. 

The global population is growing and with that comes a rising demand for food. We hope this new method helps pave the way for more sustainable agricultural practices so that we can produce enough food to feed everyone in a more environmentally friendly way. - Professor Qingyu Yan -

Dr Helen Pain, Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), praised the team’s work, saying, “The Horizon Prizes recognise brilliant teams and collaborations who are opening new directions and possibilities in their field by combining their diversity of thought, experience and skills, to deliver scientific developments for the benefit of all of us. The work of the Electrocatalytic Urea Synthesis Team is a fantastic example of why we celebrate great science, not only because of how they have expanded our understanding of the world around us but also because of the incredible contribution they make to society as a whole. We are very proud to recognise their work.”