Hydrogen’s Hero: Meet the engineer leading clean energy revolution

As the world grapples with climate change and the search for sustainable energy, hydrogen is being hailed as the fuel of the future. Among the scientists in charge is Afeez Kareem Adebayo, a Nigerian-born graduate research assistant at the University of Utah. With groundbreaking work in hydrogen production and waste management, Afeez is paving the way for a cleaner, greener energy landscape.

“Hydrogen has the potential to transform how we power our world,” says Afeez. “It’s clean, efficient, and abundant, but the challenge lies in making it accessible and sustainable on a global scale.”

Hydrogen’s allure lies in its simplicity. When used as fuel, its only byproduct is water, making it a crucial tool in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Yet, the road to widespread hydrogen adoption is riddled with challenges—high production costs and limited infrastructure is the most significant.

This is where Afeez’s work shines. At the heart of his research is the co-gasification of carbon-rich materials like coal and plastic waste to produce syngas, a vital ingredient for hydrogen production. His innovative process addresses two critical global issues: reducing plastic waste and creating cleaner energy. “It’s about turning problems into solutions,” Afeez explains.

The implications of this dual approach are profound, particularly for countries like Nigeria. With abundant natural resources but significant pollution challenges, the adoption of hydrogen energy could transform the country’s energy landscape. Afeez envisions a future where hydrogen-powered systems reduce reliance on fossil fuels and bolster energy security.

Though his work is based in the United States, Afeez stays connected to global energy challenges, collaborating with industrial partners like Eastman Chemical Company and earning funding from the U.S. Department of Energy. These partnerships are key to scaling his innovations, proving that science doesn’t operate in isolation but thrives on collaboration.

Afeez’s efforts also align with the circular economy, a global movement that emphasizes turning waste into resources.

His integration of plastic waste into hydrogen production exemplifies this principle, addressing environmental concerns while creating value.

Reflecting on his journey, Afeez says, “Innovation isn’t just about technology; it’s about creating opportunities for a sustainable future. Every step we take in hydrogen research brings us closer to that goal.”

As the world races toward cleaner energy solutions, individuals like Afeez remind us of the power of determination and ingenuity. With every experiment and breakthrough, he contributes to a vision where hydrogen energy drives global progress. Perhaps, in the not-so-distant future, the promise of hydrogen will power not just homes but also hope for a greener planet.