Projects
Designing Novel Efficient Catalytic Strategies for the Transformation of Lignocellulose into Lignin-derived Chemicals and Valorisable Carbohydrates KU Leuven
The utilization of renewable lignocellulose biomass (composed of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin) alternative to fossil fuels is crucial for long-term economic and social stability. In this context, the catalytic reductive lignocellulose fractionation (CRLF) process has received tremendous research interest as this strategy enables one-pot conversion of lignocellulose into useful lignin-derived chemicals, while retaining a solid ...
Development of a high temperature SSF reactor for the production of bio-ethanol from lignocellulose. KU Leuven
Combined process of Steam Explosion and Microbial detoxification for improved PREtreatment of lignocellulose biomass (SEMPRE). University of Antwerp
Investigation of the mechanisms and optimal conditions during microbial pretreatment of lignocellulose biomass by using co-cultures. University of Antwerp
The novel and mild RCF lignocellulose biorefinery and the use of RCF lignin in thermosets KU Leuven
Towards new bio-based aromatic products through conceptually novel lignocellulose biorefinery KU Leuven
Future chemicals production faces fading of fossil oil due to its depletion and unsustainable character. New ways to get access to carbon to build a new chemistry should rely on renewable carbon. Among others, the utilization of biomass such as lignocellulose can serve this role provided that fractionation of the feedstock will become feasible. Biorefinery research is therefore essential to overcome hurdles of the current technology. While ...
Novel catalytic routes towards carbon efficient lignocellulose biorefineries KU Leuven
This project aims to investigate the sustainability of Reductive Catalytic Fractionation (RCF) technology by creating valorization paths for the pulp produced. The pulp quality will be investigated and applied to paper and packaging industry. Beyond that, the possibilities to develop innovative bioproducts from the pulp such as textile fibers and insulation materials, will be investigated. From a fundamental perspective, the impact of RCF ...
Reductive Catalytic Fractionation of lignocellulose: insights in the lignin fraction KU Leuven
Our contemporary society highly depends on fossil raw materials that provide us with the necessary carbon skeleton for energy and chemicals production. In the decades to come, our World faces the enormous challenge of making a much-needed transition that minimizes the use of these fossil resources, due to the negative sustainability and climate consequences associated with their consumption. For the production of many chemicals, this means ...
In vitro engineering of gut microbiomes from wood-eating beetles for the valorization of lignocellulosic biomass to value-added biochemicals KU Leuven
Residual lignocellulosic biomass from agriculture and forestry as a resource for the production of biomaterials, biochemicals and bioenergy, will be an important driver for the biobased circular economy. To produce materials and chemicals from lignocellulosic biomass, sustainable, energy-friendly and resource efficient conversion routes are needed. Wood-eating beetles are natural biorefineries for lignocellulosic biomass driven by host-gut ...