Research Areas
Biomass Fractionation
Innovative feedstock-agnostic biomass fractionation process using green solvents
Renewable Materials
Biomass-derived renewable materials for various industrial applications
Biofuels and Chemicals
Producing biofuels and building block chemicals from underutilized biomass
Green Solvents
Fundamental understanding of green solvents and developing processes
Biomass Fractionation and Conversion using Deep Eutectic Solvents
Efficient fractionation is key to unlocking the full potential of lignocellulosic biomass for biofuels and bioproducts. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) offer a greener alternative, enabling one-pot conversion with lower environmental impact. By integrating engineered feedstocks with sustainable pretreatment strategies, this project aims to enhance fractionation efficiency and supports the development of greener biorefineries.
- Developing feedstock-agnostic biomass fractionation processes using biocompatible DESs
- One-pot conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into biofuels and chemicals using DESs
Green Solvent-Mediated Chemical Reactions
The development of greener and more sustainable synthesis processes for manufacturing commodity chemicals is of great importance. The majority of manufacturing processes involve harsh reaction conditions with high energy consumption, causing severe environmental pollution. In this project, we present a novel approach for the chemical reaction and separation of metals using green solvents.
- Developing greener / sustainable chemical processes using green solvents
Publication: Chemsuschem (2024)
Lignin-based functional materials
Lignin is primarily produced by the pulp and paper industry, with a substantial increase in technical lignin expected from emerging lignocellulosic biofuel facilities. Due to its intrinsic properties, lignin exhibits strong UV-shielding capabilities, hydrophobicity, and biodegradability, which can be readily controlled by adjusting lignin content and further modifications. Our lab is focusing on developing lignin-based 0D – 3D materials by integrating lignin surface chemistry, material manufacturing, and electrochemistry for lignin valorization.
- Manufacturing lignin-based advanced materials
- Developing lignin valorization strategies
Publication: ACS Applied Polymer Materials (2025), Ecomat (2023)
Waste valorization (towards zero-waste community)
A sustainable circular bioeconomy can promote waste valorization through maximum utilization of bioresources, minimization of waste generation, and production of renewable energy that can replace fossil fuels. In this context, thermochemical conversion processes play a crucial role in transforming biomass waste streams into high-value products. This research aims to develop scalable solutions for converting agricultural residues, forestry byproducts, and industrial waste into valuable bioproducts, ultimately supporting a net-zero waste community and reducing reliance on fossil-based materials.
- Developing thermochemical processes to convert wastes / underutilized resources into value-added products
- Developing pathways towards zero-waste community
