Polymers for energy transition

The transition towards more sustainable energy requires breakthroughs in polymeric materials that enable electrification, energy storage, and the safe transport of alternative energy sources. The Polymers for energy transition programme focuses on fundamental research that enhances the performance, durability, and efficiency of polymers used for energy related applications.

This programme drives scientific advancements in the following key areas:

Polymers for batteries and fuel cells: developing next-generation materials for high-energy storage and safe energy conversion.
Polymers in hydrogen environments: investigating barrier properties, mechanical integrity, and long-term durability of polymers in hydrogen applications.
Polymers for electric vehicles and electronics: understanding and predicting the thermo-electrical ageing of polymer materials as well as their flame retardancy behavior.

By deepening our understanding of polymer behaviour under demanding environmental conditions related to energy applications this programme supports DPI’s industrial partners in designing and utilising the future materials that will contribute to sustainable energy transitions.

Key research areas and active projects

The Polymers for energy transition programme bridges fundamental materials science with energy-related industrial challenges. Below are key projects driving innovation in energy-efficient polymers:

Polymers for electrical vehicles and electronics

MEAPP: investigating the mechanisms of electrical ageing caused by structural defects in high-performance polymer materials, improving long-term reliability.
TEAMs: studying thermo-electrical ageing mechanisms in polymer-ceramic nanocomposites, crucial for energy storage applications.
MOPLCTE: developing melt-processable, optically transparent polyimides with low thermal expansion coefficients, improving thermal stability in electronics.
Recyl-FR: understanding complex and competing phenomena in recycled flame-retardant polymers, with a focus on glass fibre reinforcement.

Next-generation energy storage materials

SEEEBAT: developing solid-state batteries with succinonitrile-based electrolytes, enabling higher energy density and safety.

Polymers in hydrogen environments

CharMPol: characterising and modelling high-performance polymers for gas barrier applications, essential for energy transportation.
H2-DuraPol: assessing the effect of hydrogen exposure on the durability of polymeric materials, supporting hydrogen-based applications.
RADHY: investigating rapid gas decompression failure in polymers and composites, critical for high-pressure hydrogen storage.

Boost your R&D with DPI

By joining the DPI community, you gain access to world-class polymer research, high-impact collaborations, and a strategic voice in shaping the future of energy materials.

Interested in collaborating? Let’s explore the possibilities: