Air Research

Catalyst research was started in the early 1980s by the University of Oulu and local companies. Catalytic and separation processes have been special know-how at the University of Oulu for a long time.

In addition to VOC catalysis the University of Oulu conducts research related to carbon dioxide separation and recycling. The goal is to develop industrial-field-specific (pulp and paper industry, metal industry, chemical industry, oil refining industry) solutions for treating circulating gases and exhaust gases containing carbon dioxide to minimize CO₂ emissions. The university is also studying the use of the catalytic reactions in the manufacture of valuable products (e.g. alcohols and carbonates). In addition to gaseous emissions, the university is also studying small-particle emissions and their treatment and health effects.

The technology pyramid describes the key expertise areas.

• Spearhead - International level research, doctoral dissertations and other international publications published, international connections and projects on.
• Cutting edge technologies - National scale intensity, a nationally significant input, addressing the needs of national and multinational companies. This includes also rising new areas, chosen as focus areas (such as microreactors and nanomaterials).
• Key technologies - "traditional" strong expertise areas. A strong command of these basic technologies also drives research of cutting edge and spearhead levels.
• Related technologies - Due to growing multidisciplinarity of research, rely on and draw from the expertise of our partners in these areas.