Automated catalyst testing uses two coordinated robots, cutting 32 days of work to 17 hours
Phys.org
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A groundbreaking advancement in catalyst testing has been achieved through the use of two coordinated robots, which drastically reduce the time required to evaluate catalyst performance. This innovative system cuts down the process from 32 days to just 17 hours, operating at 45 times the speed of manual labor while enhancing precision. Developed by Dr. Ji Chan Park and his team at the Korea Institute of Energy Research, this automation addresses the repetitive and complex nature of catalyst testing, which is crucial for advancing clean energy technologies.
Catalysts are essential in various scientific applications, including fuel cells and chemical reactions, where their efficiency directly impacts performance. Traditionally, evaluating these materials involved time-consuming, manual procedures prone to human error. The new robotic system not only accelerates the process but also ensures consistent and precise results, enabling researchers to test multiple catalysts more efficiently.
The automation involves two robots working in tandem: one负责 preparing catalyst samples by slicing them into thin sections and placing them precisely into testing units, while the other conducts performance evaluations under controlled conditions. This seamless coordination eliminates human error and significantly speeds up each stage of the testing process. The system's ability to handle high-throughput experiments makes it particularly valuable for researchers aiming to accelerate the discovery of new catalysts.
This innovation holds significant implications for science and industry. By reducing development timelines, it allows for quicker advancements in clean energy technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cells and sustainable fuels. This breakthrough not only enhances research capabilities but also paves the way for more efficient and cost-effective catalyst testing, ultimately contributing to a cleaner energy future. The integration
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/23/2026