Researchers awarded NWO grants for green technology and new enzymes
Developing safer alternatives to harmful PFAS filters and seeking new enzymes for medical applications. Two projects with Leiden researchers have been awarded funding through the Dutch Research Council's (NWO) Open Technology programme.
The NWO’s Open Technology programme supports innovative projects that offer solutions to social and scientific challenges. Leiden researchers are working on two of the six projects funded.
PFAS-free membranes for use in electrolysers
Main applicant: Dennis Hetterscheid, Leiden Institute of Chemistry
Co-application: Grégory Schneider, Leiden Institute of Chemistry
In chemical processes, PFAS, a group of harmful chemicals that do not easily degrade in the environment, is often released. This is the case for electrolysers, for example: devices that use electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. This technology is seen as crucial to the production of green hydrogen.
Electrolysers and fuel cells – devices that convert fuel into electricity – often use a material that contains PFAS. Hetterscheid’s team is developing an alternative. They combine long chains of molecules with metal frameworks to make filters that are safe, sustainable and efficient. This will make electrolysers cleaner and greener. This project has been awarded a grant of 903,247 euros.
New enzymes for biotechnology
Main applicant: Marco Fraaije, University of Groningen
Co-applicant, Arthur Ram, Leiden Institute of Chemistry
Enzymes are versatile catalysts, making them attractive for medical applications. One group of enzymes, the oxidases, is particularly promising, as these enzymes rely solely on oxygen to catalyse reactions. However, few oxidases are currently available. This research aims to develop a method to discover new oxidases and improve a microorganism that could produce them. This would allow for the discovery of new oxidases for biomedical applications. This project has been awarded a grant of 967,070 euros.