NPRE 596 Graduate Seminar Series - Supathorn Phongikaroon
- Sponsor
- NPRE 596 Graduate Seminar Series
- Speaker
- Supathorn Phongikaroon, Professor, Energy Solutions, Presidential Endowed Chair, Director, Nuclear Engineering Program
- Cost
- Free and Open to the Public
- nuclear@illinois.edu
- Phone
- 217-333-2295
- Views
- 19
- Originating Calendar
- NPRE seminars
Integrated Spectroelectrochemistry: Advancing Molecular Insights and Process Monitoring in Molten Salt and Ionic Liquid Systems
Abstract: As the global energy landscape shifts toward sustainable and advanced nuclear technologies, understanding the fundamental chemical behavior of molten salts and ionic liquids has become critical. This presentation provides a comprehensive review and technical assessment of spectroelectrochemistry (SEC)—the powerful integration of electrochemical techniques (such as Cyclic Voltammetry and Chronopotentiometry) with various spectroscopic methods (including UV-Vis, Raman, X-ray Absorption, and IR). By analyzing 69 peer-reviewed publications spanning 2005 to 2024, this research maps the global landscape of SEC applications across major research hubs in the United States, Russia, Japan, Korea, and Europe. The primary objective is to bridge the "information gap" between institutions by standardizing how researchers identify chemical species, determine kinetics, and characterize molecular structures in complex, high-temperature environments. Key findings highlight the effectiveness of SEC in:
- In-situ Speciation: Identifying transient species and oxidation states that are difficult to isolate using traditional methods.
- Property Measurement: Determining diffusion coefficients, formal potentials, and rate constants essential for nuclear fuel cycle advancements.
- Global Collaboration: Showcasing a robust academic-national laboratory consortium that drives successful technological maturation.
Bio: Dr. Supathorn (Supy) Phongikaroon is a Professor of Nuclear Engineering and Director of the Utah Nuclear Engineering Program (UNEP) at the University of Utah, where he holds the EnergySolutions Presidential Endowed Chair. A prominent expert in molten salt radiochemistry and laser spectroscopy, his research drives innovations in nuclear fuel separation, pyroprocessing, and nuclear safeguards.
Prior to joining the University of Utah in August 2025, Dr. Phongikaroon directed the Nuclear Engineering Program at Virginia Commonwealth University and held positions at the University of Idaho and Idaho National Laboratory (INL). He earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and B.S. in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park. To date, he has secured over $6 million in research funding and authored more than 50 peer-reviewed publications.