Our Founders
Meet the founders of Phase Two Chemicals, combining expertise and innovation to revolutionize chemical solutions.
Ming Qi, PhD.
Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Qi obtained his undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering from Dalian University of Technology before pursuing further studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
During his time at the University of Tennessee, he focused on studying organo-metallic catalysts used in aqueous air electrodes. Through his research, he discovered a new organometallic catalyst that led to a hyper efficient electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction.
His work resulted in the proposal of two innovative applications: a high-efficiency hydrogen peroxide electrolyzer and an aqueous reversible air battery.
This groundbreaking research led to the founding of Phase Two Chemicals, Inc. As the CEO, he provides leadership and direction for the company.
Ming enjoys exploring new technologies of all types, not just electrochemistry! In his spare time, he enjoys cooking, sharing good food, and listening to music.
Mengqi Zhang, PhD.
Director of Manufacturing
Dr. Zhang earned his undergraduate degree from Nanjing Tech University before pursuing further studies at the University of Tennessee, where he obtained his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.
With a focus on fundamental electrochemistry on aluminum electrodeposition in ionic liquids, Mengqi has dedicated years to research in this field.
He is credited with inventing an innovative flow battery and hybrid supercapacitor that utilize a unique ionic liquid capable of reversibly conducting aluminum deposition/dissolution.
In his role as Director of Manufacturing, Mengqi oversees all aspects of our manufacturing processes at Phase Two Chemicals. He ensures that our products are manufactured efficiently, cost-effectively, and in adherence to high quality standards.
Mengqi is based in Shaoxing and enjoys spending time with his family. He is also an avid basketball player and fisherman.
Alan Pezeshki, PhD.
Chief Technology Officer
Dr. Pezeshki received his BS in Chemical Engineering from Caltech and later earned his Ph.D. from the Bredesen Center, a joint program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
During his doctoral studies, Alan developed innovative methods to probe the performance and durability of carbon electrode materials used in vanadium redox flow battery applications.
His work identified mechanisms of electrode performance loss which enabled him to develop a new electrode, resulting in a battery with improved rate performance and stable capacity over extended cycling.
At Phase Two Chemicals, Alan is responsible for continued R&D of the company's innovative phase dispersion electrode technology. He also works closely with mills and Phase Two's engineering team to ensure installations meet site needs.
Alan is based in Boston and enjoys ultimate frisbee, co-hosting board gaming gatherings with his spouse, and visiting extended family.