Prof. Ferdi Schüth named honorary fellow of the Chinese Chemical Society

Prof. Ferdi Schüth has been named an honorary fellow of the Chinese Chemical Society for his contributions to sustainable catalysis and international collaboration.

Prof. Ferdi Schüth, director at the Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung, has been selected as an honorary fellow of the Chinese Chemical Society (CCS), the highest honour that the CCS bestows on an individual. The Society recognises his outstanding scientific contributions to sustainable catalysis, as well as his longstanding commitment to fostering international scientific collaboration.

Prof. Schüth's research focuses on the transformation of energy systems and the global shift away from fossil fuels. His work explores the use of biomass as an alternative energy carrier and chemical feedstock, as well as the development of technologies for hydrogen storage – a critical enabler for a sustainable, carbon-neutral economy. In recent years, his “Heterogeneous Catalysis” group has played a leading role in advancing mechanocatalysis, a method that uses mechanical energy to drive chemical reactions. The team has developed innovative synthesis methods for catalytic materials and contributed to making catalytic processes more efficient and environmentally friendly. Promising applications include ammonia synthesis at ambient conditions and the catalytic recycling of plastic waste. Beyond his research, Prof. Schüth has been a dedicated advocate for scientific exchange with Chinese institutions. His efforts have led to numerous joint projects and talent development initiatives between German and Chinese research communities.

Founded in 1932, the Chinese Chemical Society currently counts more than 120,000 individual and 184 organisational members. To date, 103 internationally recognised scientists have been awarded the title of honorary fellow.