Electrification Institute: Powering the Shift to Electrified Chemical Processes
At the Electrification Institute, we unite three research groups with a shared mission: to accelerate the shift from fossil fuels to electrified processes in the chemical industry. Our focus is on innovative technologies such as plasma chemistry, electrochemistry, and power-to-heat, offering sustainable solutions for industry. Through applied research and scaling from the lab to real-world testing, we aim to bridge the gap between academic research and practical industrial application.
Located at the BlueApp open innovation hub in Antwerp, the Electrification Institute is at the heart of innovation. BlueApp’s modern laboratories, engineering makerspace and pilot hall provide the ideal environment for collaboration between startups, researchers, and industry, helping companies develop the next generation of technologies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Mission and expertise
Our mission is to support industries in developing electrified processes that are both sustainable and economically viable.
By integrating the expertise of the research groups:
- Applied Electrochemistry and Catalysis (ELCAT)
- Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine Antwerp (PLASMANT)
- The Laboratory for the Electrification of Chemical Processes and Hydrogen (ElectrifHy)
we deliver tailored solutions to challenges in, among others, CO2 conversion, green hydrogen production, and chemical process electrification. This interdisciplinary approach allows us to innovate across the entire value chain and advance the electrification of industrial processes, moving towards a fossil-free future.
Collaboration and Impact
We believe that innovation thrives on collaboration. The Electrification Institute works closely with industry, policymakers, and research institutions, ensuring that our research aligns with real-world needs. Our advanced facilities, combined with the knowledge of over 100 researchers, offer companies a unique opportunity to test, scale, and commercialize new technologies.
At the forefront of sustainable chemistry and industrial electrification, the Electrification Institute is committed to driving positive change, fostering clean jobs, and contributing to a greener global economy. Through our research and commitment to innovation, we’re making the vision of a fossil-free, electrified industry a reality.
BlueApp is situated at the BlueGate Antwerp site, a climate neutral business park whose location offers unique opportunities in terms of accessibility and logistics.
Antwerp is the economic driving force of Flanders. It hosts world port of Antwerp-Bruges and the second largest chemical cluster which are one of the engines of Flemish (and Belgian) economy that contribute much to its success and prosperity. Antwerp’s central position with easy access to industrial hot spots in neighboring countries and major local production of chemicals makes it a place to be for chemical companies worldwide.
Advisory board
The institute has a dedicated sounding board that provides advice on the priorities and research roadmaps of the institute. This highlights the institute’s commitment and broad support to a demand-driven R&D strategy. It also reflects the industry’s willingness in advancing innovation and electrification to promote European competitiveness.
Nick Valckx
business manager Zirfon/H₂ membranes at Agfa-Gevaert
Stijn Verbert
VP Verbund site development & optimization at BASF Antwerp
Jean-Pierre Keustermans
Research partnership manager at ENGIE Laborelec
Dirk Dompas
Research, Technology & Engineering Manager at INEOS-Inovyn
