The SOCOTEC Chair has awarded Irene de Diego's Final Degree Project (TFG), carried out in the Thermochemical Processes Group of the I3A. Directed by the researcher Uxue Alzueta, the research work evaluated the potential of ammonia (NH₃) as a sustainable and carbon-free fuel.
The SOCOTEC Chair Awards recognise outstanding projects in sustainability and circular economy. In this case, not only the technical content, innovation and impact of the work was assessed, but also the ability to communicate it effectively. As part of the process, the nine finalists presented their projects in an oral presentation in the Aula Magna of the Paraninfo of the University of Zaragoza.
Irene de Diego's dissertation focused on overcoming some of the challenges of ammonia combustion, such as NOx formation and high ignition resistance. ‘I conducted an extensive study of its mixture with methanol (CH₃OH) and carried out laboratory experiments in which I analysed different operating variables, such as temperature, oxygen input stoichiometry and the ratio between ammonia and methanol,’ she explains. He also improved the kinetic-chemical reaction model using Ansys-Chemkin software and simulated the experimental results obtained in the lab. In this way, he was able to determine the conditions under which there was an earlier complete conversion of the reactants and minimal emission of pollutants.
Currently, she is still at the I3A doing her Master's Thesis (TFM). His study focuses on the combustion of mixtures of ammonia (NH₃), methanol (CH₃OH) and hydrogen (H₂), to find out how the addition of hydrogen, free in carbon and with a high combustion efficiency, affects the combustion characteristics of this mixture. ‘My goal is to analyse its impact on reducing the ignition temperature of ammonia, favouring a more complete and efficient combustion. In addition, the combustion of hydrogen contributes to the reduction of pollutant emissions, especially in the formation of NOx, which makes these mixtures an even more sustainable option compared to traditional fossil fuels,’ says the young prize-winner.
Irene de Diego studied Chemical Engineering at the University of Zaragoza, and the Master's Degree in Chemical Engineering. As she recalls, since she was a child she was interested in ‘knowing how things worked around me, I have always liked to solve problems and find alternative solutions. When I was a little older, I became more interested in chemistry and sustainability. I chose this career with the motivation to be an agent of change, to contribute to developing more sustainable and efficient innovative solutions to global challenges.
His main goal is to apply the knowledge he has acquired throughout his career and to be an active part of the transformation of the industry towards more environmentally friendly practices. He defines himself as ‘a very hard-working and resilient person, so I would like to lead important projects. I am really looking forward to starting my career in the world of work, I am very motivated to contribute successfully to the projects I am involved in’.
He joined the I3A with one of the TFG Grants awarded by the Institute and where he continues, now with his TFM. ‘My time at the I3A has been a very enriching experience. I have had the opportunity to get involved in two innovative research projects, which has allowed me to apply what I have learnt and delve into very interesting areas. In addition, the collaborative environment and the opportunity to work with highly recognised researchers have allowed me to grow both academically and professionally,’ says Irene de Diego.
The University of Zaragoza's SOCOTEC Chair awards seek to promote the connection between the University and the industrial sector, fostering solutions that help to move towards a more sustainable economy.
