Ammonia is a critical feedstock for fertilisers and chemicals and an emerging hydrogen carrier for the future energy economy. Current ammonia production relies on the Haber–Bosch process, which operates at high temperature and pressure and contributes significantly to global energy consumption and CO2 emissions. Developing sustainable ammonia synthesis technologies is therefore essential for achieving net-zero emissions and strengthening Australia’s renewable energy industry.
This project aims to develop a next-generation protonic ceramic fuel cell (PCFC) technology for ammonia synthesis. Unlike conventional electrolysis approaches, the proposed technology utilises chemical potential gradients to drive proton generation and nitrogen activation while co-generating electricity, enabling highly energy-efficient ammonia production. The research will focus on advanced electrocatalysts, proton-conducting materials, and device engineering to establish a new pathway for green ammonia synthesis.
The project aligns closely with Australia’s net-zero emissions targets and emerging hydrogen and ammonia economies, contributing to clean energy storage, renewable fuel production, and industrial decarbonisation.
Aim
The overarching aim of this project is to develop high-performance and energy-efficient protonic ceramic fuel cell technologies for sustainable ammonia synthesis. The project will combine catalyst design, mechanistic understanding, and device engineering to overcome current limitations in ammonia production efficiency, selectivity, and durability.
Specifically, the project aims to:
- Develop advanced nitride-based electrocatalysts capable of both proton generation and nitrogen activation.
- Design highly conductive and chemically stable proton-conducting ceramic materials and electrode architectures.
- Understand the fundamental mechanisms governing ammonia formation, proton transport, nitrogen activation, and non-Faradaic effects.
- Optimise PCFC devices and operating conditions for efficient ammonia synthesis with electricity co-generation.
The ultimate goal is to establish scalable and economically viable technologies for green ammonia production using renewable energy.
Objectives
The specific objectives of this project include:
- Materials Design and Discovery – Develop novel catalyst materials with enhanced proton generation, N2 dissociation, and ammonia synthesis activity.
- Mechanistic Understanding – Investigate reaction pathways, structure–performance relationships, and the role of non-Faradaic effects in ammonia synthesis.
- Electrolyte and Electrode Development – Design and optimise proton-conducting ceramic materials with high conductivity and long-term stability.
- Device Engineering – Fabricate and optimise PCFC architectures to maximise ammonia production rates, electrical output, and operational durability.
- Device Demonstration and Evaluation – Evaluate performance, durability, scalability, and techno-economic feasibility under practical operating conditions.
Significance
This project addresses one of the most important challenges in the global transition to a low-carbon future: sustainable ammonia production. By developing advanced protonic ceramic fuel cell technologies based on earth-abundant materials, the research has the potential to significantly reduce the energy consumption and carbon footprint of ammonia synthesis while improving efficiency and economic viability.
The project will generate fundamental knowledge in electrochemistry, catalysis, ceramic materials, and ammonia synthesis technologies, while delivering practical innovations that support the commercialisation of green ammonia systems. The outcomes will contribute to Australia’s strategic priorities in renewable energy, clean manufacturing, and decarbonisation.
As global demand for green ammonia continues to grow, successful development of advanced PCFC technologies could strengthen Australia’s position as a major producer and exporter of clean fuels. The project will provide the successful PhD candidate with interdisciplinary training in advanced materials, electrochemical energy technologies, catalysis, and device engineering.
Ideal Candidate
We are seeking a self-motivated PhD candidate with excellent organisation, problem-solving and project management skills. Experience or expertise in the research fields of chemical engineering, materials science, materials engineering, catalysis, physical chemistry, chemistry, and/or electrochemistry are highly desirable. The candidate must meet minimum English language requirements and must be eligible to enrol in PhD programs at Curtin University.
This project is open to International and Domestic applicants.
Scholarship
If you are identified as the preferred candidate for this project, you may be considered for an RTP scholarship.
Enquires and How to Apply
For enquires about this opportunity contact Professor Moses Tade at M.O.Tade@curtin.edu.au
To formally apply submit an Expression of Interest to Professor Moses Tade during the Central Scholarship round (July 1st – July 31st 2026)