Minghan Xu

Focusing on the interface between energy and mining engineering, I aim to tackle today’s climate and energy challenges by decarbonizing energy systems in mines. Research in my lab develops and implements clean energy technology, accelerating towards a sustainable future for the mining industry. It advances the areas of mine electrification, mine ventilation, heating and cooling, renewable energy, and energy storage.

Current studies in my lab emphasize sustainable energy solutions for northern and remote mines, including those in Canada’s north. My lab combines physics-based modeling, optimization, and experiments to enhance our fundamental understanding of unique phenomena in cold climates, such as freezing, thawing, and frosting. This facilitates the design and implementation of renewable energy innovations tailored specifically for cold regions, e.g., cold thermal energy storage, spray freezing, and artificial ground freezing. The overarching goal of my lab is to protect vulnerable northern communities and industries, while minimizing environmental impacts in today’s global energy transition and changing climate.

My research program is also committed to addressing key challenges in the Canadian mining sector, such as the reduction in the young workforce, gender inequality, underrepresentation of gender and visible minorities, and the lack of technical skills required to work in the North. In my lab, specific considerations are incorporated at each stage of the research process, as well as in the recruitment and retention of highly qualified personnel. We envision a future of mining that is more equitable, diverse, and inclusive.