The Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) under the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recently visited UNIST, underscoring the importance of international collaboration in the development of seawater resource technology and the growth of the energy industry in Ulsan.
On October 23, UNIST welcomed a delegation from ARPA-E to discuss advancements in seawater resource technology. Approximately 30 participants, including officials from the U.S. Department of Energy and representatives from various energy companies, engaged in fruitful discussions during the visit, which followed a similar engagement at POSTECH.
ARPA-E is dedicated to promoting and funding research and development (R&D) in advanced energy technologies. During their visit, the delegation toured the UNIST Seawater Resources Technology Research Center and attended presentations from companies in the Ulsan Ulju Innotown that are focused on developing seawater-based secondary batteries and related technologies. The discussions centered around potential collaborations in various areas, including seawater-based secondary batteries, hydrogen production, and carbon capture and storage.
The UNIST Seawater Resources Technology Research Center has achieved a significant milestone by developing the world's first "Seawater Battery," which utilizes seawater as an alternative to the anode in lithium-ion batteries. Companies leveraging this groundbreaking technology are co-located within the center to facilitate commercialization efforts. Seawater batteries are gaining attention as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective energy storage solution.
Simon Freeman, Program Director of ARPA-E stated, "During our visit to the UNIST Marine Resource Center, we were impressed by the remarkable progress and practical potential of seawater cell development over the past decade. We are considering seawater cells as viable candidates for energy sources in marine applications and look forward to collaborating with national research institutions and universities in the United States."
Youngsik Kim, Director of the Ulsan Ulju Innotown, remarked, "ARPA-E has demonstrated a strong interest in both UNIST and the research on seawater cells being conducted in Ulsan." He added, "We intend to foster close relationships to enhance international cooperation among companies within the special zone."
