October 25, 2025
Professor Chuan Zhao FRSN FRACI FRSC, of the UNSW School of Chemistry, has been awarded an Applied Research and Innovation Award by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.
Professor Zhao, who became an Australian Research Council Laureate Fellow in June, was recognised for significant contributions to developing new electrochemical materials and methods for clean, sustainable energy.
His work has transformed the hydrogen industry. His patented 3D-electrode technology is widely regarded as the benchmark by laboratories worldwide and has been adopted broadly by the hydrogen industry for reducing the cost of green hydrogen. Through a suite of patented technologies and spinout companies, his electrochemistry research breakthroughs have been translated into sustainable materials to improve the efficiency of water electrolysers for hydrogen production.
Professor Zhao said that one of the biggest challenges to the widespread use of green hydrogen is the cost. “Developing catalysts made from common elements such as nickel and iron that can replace those based on expensive precious metals like platinum and iridium, is key to addressing this grand challenge. And by innovating clean energy technologies and enabling scalable, affordable hydrogen production, we’re contributing to global decarbonisation and supporting Australia’s transition to a net-zero economy.”
The Council of the Royal Society of NSW extends its warm congratulations to Professor Zhao on his Award.
