HG-energy

Research co-authored by HG Energy researcher Prof. Hermenegildo García featured in Nature Communications Editors’ Highlights

Katya Cuevas Bercovich — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 09:33:13 +0000

Research co-authored by HG Energy researcher Prof. Hermenegildo García featured in Nature Communications Editors’ Highlights

July, 28, 2026

Research co-authored by HG Energy researcher Prof. Hermenegildo García and an international team of scientists has been featured in the Nature Communications Editors’ Highlights collection in Catalysis.

The paper, “Single-atom photocatalyst for click reaction”, was selected by the journal’s editors as one of the most significant recent publications in the field. The Editors’ Highlights collection showcases around 50 outstanding papers published in each research area and is regularly updated as new advances are reported.

The study was carried out by Long Chen, Xiaohui Zhang, Weimin Xuan, David A. Pratt and Hermenegildo García, bringing together expertise in photocatalysis and catalyst design to develop a single-atom photocatalyst capable of promoting click reactions under light irradiation.

Click reactions are widely used in organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry and materials science because of their efficiency and selectivity. The photocatalytic strategy presented in this work offers a new approach to carrying out these transformations under mild conditions while contributing to the development of more sustainable catalytic systems based on isolated metal atoms.

Being featured in the Nature Communications Editors’ Highlights recognises the scientific relevance of this collaborative research and its contribution to advancing catalysis.

Read the article:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-74278-4

Explore the Nature Communications Editors’ Highlights:
https://www.nature.com/ncomms/editorshighlights

HG Energy researchers contribute to the “2nd International Symposium on Catalytic Chemistry of C1 Molecules”

Katya Cuevas Bercovich — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 07:50:04 +0000

HG Energy researchers contribute to the “2nd International Symposium on Catalytic Chemistry of C1 Molecules” with presentations on advanced CO₂ conversion technologies

July, 10, 2026

This week, our colleagues Diego Mateo and Josep Albero are taking part in C1 Chemistry 2026, one of the leading international conferences focused on C1 chemistry, CO₂ utilisation and sustainable catalysis.

The conference brings together researchers from universities, research institutes and industry from around the world to discuss the latest developments in catalysis, electrocatalysis, photocatalysis and carbon utilisation. It provides an outstanding platform for scientific exchange, collaboration and the development of new research partnerships in technologies that are expected to play a key role in the energy transition.

During the event, our researchers are presenting their work:

Diego Mateo – “Oxygen Vacancy-Engineered In₂O₃@Carbon Catalysts from Steam-Pyrolyzed MOFs for Photo-thermal CO₂ Hydrogenation”
Josep Albero – “Ni and Mo Atom Pairs as Active Sites for Urea Production from Simultaneous CO₂ and NO₃⁻ Reduction by Pulsed Electrocatalysis”

We are proud to see HG Energy contributing to such an important international scientific forum and would like to thank the organisers for bringing together the global C1 chemistry community.

Meetings such as C1 Chemistry are essential to accelerate scientific progress, foster new collaborations and advance the development of innovative technologies for carbon utilisation and the transition towards a more sustainable energy system.

More information: https://c1chem.org/

HG energy at Graphene2026: sharing research, ideas and collaborations

Katya Cuevas Bercovich — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 09:44:51 +0000

HG energy at Graphene2026: sharing research, ideas and collaborations

July, 2, 2026

Our research leaders, Dr. Ana Primo and Prof. Hermenegildo García, were invited to present their latest work as invited speakers at Graphene2026 – The 16th International Conference on Graphene and 2D Materials, one of the leading international events dedicated to graphene, MXenes and other advanced 2D materials.

Bringing together researchers, technology developers and industry leaders from around the world, Graphene2026 offered an outstanding scientific programme and an excellent opportunity to discuss the latest advances in the field while strengthening international collaborations.

Dr. Ana Primo delivered the invited lecture “MXenes as Versatile 2D Materials for Photocatalysis”, presenting recent advances in the use of MXenes for solar-driven photocatalytic processes and discussing how the design of these materials is opening new opportunities for sustainable energy applications.

Prof. Hermenegildo García presented the invited lecture “MXenes as New 2D Thermal Catalysts”, highlighting the growing potential of MXenes as a new family of catalytic materials for thermal catalysis and their role in developing more efficient and sustainable chemical processes.

Beyond the scientific sessions, the conference was also a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, reconnect with colleagues and establish new collaborations with researchers from universities, research centres and companies across the globe.

HG energy would like to thank the organisers for delivering an excellent conference and creating an inspiring environment where science, innovation and collaboration come together. It was also a pleasure to enjoy Barcelona, whose vibrant atmosphere and international character make it an ideal setting for bringing together the global scientific community.

HG Energy researchers share their work at CIMTEC 2026 in Perugia, Italy

Katya Cuevas Bercovich — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 09:16:19 +0000

HG Energy researchers share their work at CIMTEC 2026 in Perugia, Italy

June, 22, 2026

HG Energy researchers Sara Goberna-Ferrón and Elena Romero participated in CIMTEC 2026, held in Perugia, Italy, from 15–19 June, joining scientists from around the world working on advanced materials, catalysis and sustainable technologies.

Sara Goberna-Ferrón delivered the oral presentation:

“Fe-Engineered Mo₂C MXene for Efficient Electrochemical NH₃ Production”

while Elena Romero presented the poster:

“In-situ Synthesis of MXene–Perovskite Interfaces in 3D Carbon Catalysts Boost Aerobic Oxime Oxidation.”

The conference provided an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss new research directions and establish new connections within the international scientific community. The quality of the programme and the diversity of the contributions made CIMTEC a valuable forum for scientific discussion and collaboration.

We would like to thank the organisers for a fantastic event, and especially Prof. Johanna Rosen (Sweden), Convener of the symposium, for bringing together such a stimulating programme and fostering meaningful scientific interactions.

Science, Music and Participation: Babak Anasori Brings a Different Perspective on Research to HG Energy

Katya Cuevas Bercovich — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 12:27:08 +0000

Science, Music and Participation: Babak Anasori Brings a Different Perspective on Research to HG Energy

June, 15, 2026

This morning, HG Energy had the pleasure of welcoming Professor Babak Anasori for an inspiring and highly engaging scientific talk. Professor Anasori, who is joining the group as a visiting researcher for the next month, shared his expertise on “Composition and Defect Control in MXenes for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction”, offering valuable insights into one of the most promising families of advanced materials for future energy technologies.

Babak Anasori is a Rising Star Associate Professor in the School of Materials Engineering and the School of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University. Internationally recognized for his pioneering work on MXenes, a class of two-dimensional materials with remarkable properties and applications in energy storage, catalysis, electronics and sustainability, he has become one of the leading voices in this field.

What made today’s session particularly memorable was not only the scientific content, but also the way it was delivered.

The talk started with music.

As Babak explained, films use music to capture attention, create emotion and enhance the experience. Why should scientific communication be any different?

That philosophy set the tone for a session that was far from a conventional lecture. Throughout the presentation, participants were encouraged to interact, ask questions and share ideas. The audience became part of the conversation rather than simply listening from their seats.

One of the highlights was hearing songs about MXenes created by Babak himself, bringing creativity and humor into a highly technical subject. The combination of rigorous science, storytelling, music and interaction created an atmosphere that was both enjoyable and intellectually stimulating.

The experience reminded us that science does not have to be heavy or difficult to engage with. Learning can be dynamic, collaborative and even fun, without losing depth or rigor.

We are delighted to have Babak with us over the coming weeks and look forward to continuing the discussions, collaborations and exchange of ideas that began this morning.

More information: https://www.babakanasori.com

From Valencia to Dublin: Ana Primo and Hermenegildo García contribute to EuroMXene 2026 in Dublin

Katya Cuevas Bercovich — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:46:39 +0000

From Valencia to Dublin: Ana Primo and Hermenegildo García contribute to EuroMXene 2026 in Dublin

June, 4, 2026

This morning, Dr Ana Primo and Prof. Hermenegildo García contributed to the scientific programme of EuroMXene 2026, held at Trinity College Dublin, with two talks reflecting HG Energy’s research activity in MXenes and advanced 2D materials.

Dr Ana Primo, participating as an Invited Speaker, delivered the lecture “MXenes as versatile 2D materials for next-generation catalysis”. Prof. Hermenegildo García also presented the talk “Single-Atom MXenes: Versatile Platforms for Selective Cinnamaldehyde Reduction”.

Their participation is especially meaningful for HG Energy. Ana Primo and Hermenegildo García were the initiators of EuroMXene 2024 in Valencia, the first EuroMXene congress held in Europe. That first edition created a dedicated European meeting point for the MXene community, bringing together leading researchers and opening a space for scientific exchange around one of the most active areas in materials science.

We are very proud to see how that initiative has continued and grown into EuroMXene 2026 in Dublin, thanks to the work of Prof. Valeria Nicolosi and the organising team at Trinity College Dublin, who have carried the conference forward with great commitment.

The scientific quality of this edition is exceptional, with outstanding contributions covering MXene synthesis, characterisation, catalysis, energy applications, electronics, sensing, biomedical materials and other emerging directions in 2D materials research.

From HG Energy, we warmly thank Valeria Nicolosi, the full organising committee, the scientific board, speakers and participants for making EuroMXene 2026 such a strong and inspiring event for the international MXene community.

Following Enthusiasm, Challenging Perspectives: A Memorable Visit by Nobel Laureate Benjamin List

Katya Cuevas Bercovich — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 09:16:29 +0000

Following Enthusiasm, Challenging Perspectives: A Memorable Visit by Nobel Laureate Benjamin List

June, 2, 2026

🧑‍🔬 Yesterday, researchers from HG Energy had the opportunity to take part in an inspiring visit by Prof. Benjamin List, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry 2021, at the Instituto de Tecnología Química (CSIC-UPV).

✨ His talk, “Follow your enthusiasm”, was a powerful reminder that innovation often comes from questioning established approaches and having the confidence to explore new ideas. Prof. List’s enthusiasm, curiosity and passion for science were evident throughout the session, making it a highly motivating experience for everyone in attendance.

🎤 We are especially proud that Dr. Sara Goberna Ferron from HG Energy contributed as moderator during the discussion with early-career researchers, while Prof. Hermenegildo Garcia Gomez and Dr. Urbano Díaz, both members of HG Energy – ITQ (UPV-CSIC), participated in the roundtable debate alongside Prof. List and other leading researchers.

💡 Beyond the scientific discussions, the event encouraged us to look at research from a different perspective and reinforced the value of curiosity, creativity and independent thinking.

#HGEnergy #Research #Innovation #Chemistry #BenjaminList #Science #ITQ #Catalysis

HG energy at 2SUC 2026: Scientific Exchange and International Collaboration in Rabat

Katya Cuevas Bercovich — Mon, 25 May 2026 09:23:13 +0000

HG energy at 2SUC 2026: Scientific Exchange and International Collaboration in Rabat

May, 25, 2026

Prof. Hermenegildo Garcia Gomez, leader of HG Energy – ITQ (UPV-CSIC), Instituto de Tecnología Química (CSIC-UPV), recently attended the international congress 2SUC 2026 in Rabat, Morocco, held from May 21 to 23, 2026.

The congress brought together researchers working on advanced materials, catalysis, sustainable chemistry, energy conversion and storage, creating an excellent environment for scientific discussion and international collaboration. The scientific quality of the presentations and exchanges made the congress a highly valuable experience.

It was also a special opportunity to reconnect with longtime colleagues and friends from more than 25 years ago, including Mostafa El Ghoul, Redouane Achour and Ahmed Moussaif.

Many thanks to the entire 2SUC 2026 organizing committee for their warm hospitality, excellent work and for making this congress such a successful and inspiring scientific event.

#HGEnergy #2SUC2026 #Rabat #EnergyTransition #Catalysis #SustainableChemistry #AdvancedMaterials #ScientificCollaboration #EnergyResearch

Recognised Across Europe: Professor Hermenegildo from HG Energy (ITQ CSIC-UPV) Elected to Academia Europaea

Katya Cuevas Bercovich — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 07:37:50 +0000

Recognised Across Europe: Professor Hermenegildo from HG Energy (ITQ CSIC-UPV) Elected to Academia Europaea

April 23, 2026

Professor Hermenegildo from HG Energy at Instituto de Tecnología Química (CSIC-UPV) has been elected as a member of Academia Europaea following a competitive selection process based on peer review and the recommendation of the relevant academic section.

Founded in 1988, Academia Europaea is one of the most respected scientific institutions in Europe, bringing together leading researchers and scholars from across the continent and beyond. With around 6,000 members, the Academy covers a wide range of disciplines and contributes to scientific collaboration, policy advice, and the advancement of knowledge.

Among its activities, Academia Europaea organises scientific meetings and workshops, publishes the international journal European Review, and contributes to science advice initiatives such as SAPEA (Science Advice for Policy by European Academies), supporting European institutions in evidence-based decision-making.

As a newly elected member in 2026, Professor Hermenegildo will take part in the Academy’s annual conference, where new members are invited to present their research and engage with the wider academic community.

This recognition reflects the international relevance of the research carried out at HG Energy and its contribution to the scientific community.

https://www.ae-info.org/ae/Member/Garcia_Hermenegildo

International collaboration explores advanced porous materials for energy and environmental applications

Katya Cuevas Bercovich — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:29:44 +0000

International collaboration explores advanced porous materials for energy and environmental applications

April, 20, 2026

A recent publication in Chemical Society Reviews showcases a strong international collaboration between researchers from Europe, the Middle East and Asia, bringing together complementary expertise in chemistry, materials science and energy technologies. The work reflects a collective effort to advance the development of functional porous materials with real-world applications.

The study focuses on sulfonated porous organic polymers (SPOPs), a class of materials that combines stable porous frameworks with sulfonic acid (–SO₃H) functional groups. This shared research provides a comprehensive overview of their design, synthesis and performance, highlighting how controlled functionalisation can unlock new capabilities across environmental and energy sectors.

The collaboration brings together researchers from multiple institutions, including:

Ali Reza Oveisi — Lorestan University
Saba Daliran — Lorestan University
José Alemán — Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM)
Matías Blanco — Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM)
Amarajothi Dhakshinamoorthy — Madurai Kamaraj University (India)
Unal Sen — Eskisehir Technical University (Turkey)
Hermenegildo García — HG energy- Instituto de Tecnología Química, Universitat Politècnica de València (Spain)

Together, these institutions form a multidisciplinary network that underlines the importance of collaboration in advancing material science. Their combined work shows that SPOPs are promising candidates for environmental remediation, particularly in removing pollutants such as dyes, antibiotics and heavy metals from water, as well as for selective gas separation processes.

In the energy field, the research highlights their potential as proton-conducting membranes for fuel cells and as components in advanced energy storage systems, offering alternatives to conventional materials and supporting the transition toward more sustainable technologies.

HG Energy recognises the value of this type of collaborative research, where academic institutions and scientific disciplines align to accelerate innovation. The outcomes of this study are closely connected to the group’s interest in integrating advanced materials into future energy and environmental solutions.

This publication also represents a clear opportunity for backover (Artwork: Katya Cuevas), reinforcing the relevance of these materials as a potential pathway for future development and integration into next-generation energy and environmental technologies.

More information about the study is available here:
https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2026/cs/d5cs00918a