Hailong Chen is working to reduce energy use and costs in critical sectors such as mining and recycling through advanced electrochemical science.

Chen leads the Georgia Tech Electrochemical Manufacturing and Recycling research initiative for the Institute for Matter and Systems. His research focuses on understanding the fundamental science behind electrochemical manufacturing and recycling processes and applying that knowledge to industrial practices. Chen is an associate professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering.

In this Q&A, Chen discusses his research focus, its connection to the Institute for Matter and Systems’ core priorities, and the national impact of this initiative.

What is your field of expertise and at what point in your life did you first become interested in this area? 

My expertise is materials design and advanced materials characterization using synchrotron and neutron techniques. I have always been interested in understanding electrochemical reactions. Previously, I focused on electrochemical reactions in batteries. More recently, I’ve become interested in a broader range of electrochemical reactions, such as electrowinning and electrochemical separation and extraction of critical elements and materials.

What questions or challenges sparked your current research? 

Many electrochemical reactions widely used in industrial manufacturing are not well understood. Current recipes and protocols are mostly inherited from historical trial-and-error iterations, lacking rational design and impeding further development and improvement. Our experience with batteries and unique research capabilities can help improve the efficiency of electrochemical manufacturing and lower economic and energy costs.

Matter and systems refer to the transformational technological and societal systems that arise from the convergence of innovative materials, devices, and processes. Why is your initiative important to the development of the IMS research strategy? 

Georgia Tech has a strong community of faculty working in electrochemistry across diverse research areas such as energy storage and conversion, synthesis, and water purification. However, we currently lack a unifying theme in electrochemical manufacturing and recycling—the focus this initiative seeks to establish and advance.

What are the broader global and social benefits of the research you and your team conduct?

Many manufacturing industries, including mining, separation, and recycling, are highly energy intensive. Our research aims to drive transformative changes in these sectors by significantly reducing energy consumption, economic costs, and carbon footprints, with both immediate and lasting impacts on the U.S. and global society.

What are your plans for engaging a wider Georgia Tech faculty pool with the Institute for Matter and Systems research?

We plan to engage as many faculty members as possible whose research interests and expertise align with this theme. Our goal is to foster a supportive, collaborative, and inspiring environment where they can brainstorm, spark new ideas, and build capabilities. This community will also help them organize and position themselves to compete effectively for future funding opportunities in the field.