Research Themes
The Centre’s research is organised around three integrated themes that address key challenges in sustainable manufacturing. Each theme combines fundamental research with industry collaboration to develop practical, scalable solutions and provide training in areas of critical importance to Australia’s future economy.
Theme 1: Catalysis in the Green Circular Economy
This theme focuses on transforming waste and renewable resources into valuable chemicals and materials. It aims to reduce reliance on fossil feedstocks by developing catalytic processes that support circular manufacturing systems.
- Converting waste streams into useful products
- Developing sustainable chemical pathways
- Supporting circular economy models
Theme 2 – Catalysis in Bioprocessing
This theme focuses on developing enzyme-based and biological catalytic processes for sustainable manufacturing. It explores how natural and engineered systems can be used to convert renewable resources and waste into valuable products, while reducing environmental impact and improving process efficiency.
- Developing enzyme and bio-inspired catalysts
- Converting biomass and waste into useful materials
- Advancing sustainable biomanufacturing processes
Theme 3 – Sustainable Catalysts for Energy Applications
This theme targets the development of advanced catalytic systems for clean energy production and storage. It aims to improve the efficiency and affordability of processes such as hydrogen generation and carbon utilisation, supporting the transition to low-emissions energy systems.
- Designing catalysts for renewable energy processes
- Enabling efficient hydrogen and fuel production
- Supporting carbon-neutral and low-emissions technologies