Cross’ research focuses on four different topics: 1) computational simulation of materials and their properties, 2) biomass process research 3) Japan's energy-mix policy research and 4) and Online Education and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs).
Biofuel research Research is ongoing to create high quality bio-oil by pyrolysis of scrap wood and upgrading it using a new type of catalyst. This unique catalyst uses an ionic liquid coating on a solid supports (ZSM-5, TiOx-ZrOx). Results indicate that the catalyst effectively upgrades the bio-oil. Further work is needed on understanding the reaction mechanism and improving yield Finally, resulting from the power shortage in Japan following the Fukushima accident in 2011, it became apparent that there was a need for energy policy research following natural and man-made disasters. One doctoral student is undertaking research on decision models for selecting Japanese energy-mix. |