Ruston, LA - Louisiana Tech University researchers Dr. Shengnian Wang and Dr. Lingxiao Wang were recently awarded a combined $275,000 through the Future Use of Energy in Louisiana’s (FUEL) University Innovation and Research Development funding.

Dr. Lingxiao Wang’s project, awarded $124,799, focuses on creating a smarter, more cost-effective way to monitor CO2 levels. Instead of relying on expensive, dense sensor networks, this new technology combines mobile robots with stationary sensors to detect CO2 leaks more accurately and at a lower cost.

“What inspired us is the idea that combining the robots and sensors could create a more efficient way to monitor CO2,” L. Wang said. “This system provides accurate lead detection while using fewer sensors, making it more cost effective and reliable.”

In collaboration with Grambling State University and Parish Controls LLC, this technology could also prevent hazardous gas leaks and assist in tracking wildfires and air pollution.

Dr. Shengnian Wang’s research, awarded $149,918, offers a new way to convert hydrogen sulfide, a toxic byproduct of oil production, into clean hydrogen and sulfur at room temperature. This method offers a more energy-efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional high-temperature decomposition processes.

“Our process reduces pollution while producing clean hydrogen energy at the same time,” S. Wang said. “The other product, sulfur, can be used in everyday products such as fertilizers, detergents, and batteries.”

By working with Grambling State University and PolyKala Technologies LLC, the project will assess how this method can be scaled up for real-world applications.

These projects have the potential of benefiting industries ranging from oil and gas to manufacturing to renewable energy. By advancing sustainable technologies, Louisiana Tech researchers are helping pave the way for a cleaner, more energy-efficient future.