KAUST Research Conference:
Catalyzing the Energy and Chemical Transition Toward Circularity
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
Heterogeneous catalysts are crucial for a wide range of industrial processes, including the production of valuable transportation fuels and essential chemicals. The primary role of catalytic materials is to accelerate and direct chemical reactions to produce desired molecules. Currently, the chemical industry is undergoing an exciting yet challenging transformation. This shift is driven by the depletion of current feedstocks and growing concerns about greenhouse gas emissions linked to climate change. Our existing linear economy, in which feedstocks are converted into products that are discarded as waste at the end of their life cycle, must transition to a more circular model. Undoubtedly, heterogeneous catalysts and innovative catalytic-reactor concepts will play a key role in these transformative processes. At KAUST we are driven to shape the future by pioneering catalytic processes that revolutionize efficiency and sustainability in today's world.
Join us at our cutting-edge conference on “Catalyzing the Energy and Chemical Transition toward Circularity”, where top experts, researchers and industry professionals will explore groundbreaking advancements in catalysis.
Our theme focuses on driving the transition to a sustainable circular economy, with discussions on:
- Advanced characterization techniques for the rational design of catalysts.
- Innovative reactor designs for real-time monitoring of catalytic reactions.
- Developing more efficient and sustainable catalytic processes for the future.
- New reactor concepts for process optimization.
This event is organized by the KAUST Catalysis Platform, with financial support from the Office of Research Funding and Services (RFS).
AGENDA
07:45 am - 08:30 am
08:30am - 09:00 am
Session 1. Advanced CO2 Utilization in Energy Transition and
Sustainable Fuels
09:00 am - 09:35 am
09:40 am - 10:15 am
10:20 am - 10:35 am·
10:35 am - 11:10 am
11:15 am - 11:50 am
11:55 am - 01:10 pm
Session 2. Catalyst Design and Innovation for Sustainable Energy and
Emission Control
01:15 pm - 02:15 pm
02:15 pm - 02:50 pm
02:55 pm - 03:30 pm
03:35 pm - 03:50 pm
03:50 pm - 04:25 pm
04:30 pm - 05:05 pm
05:10 pm - 07:00 pm
07:45 am - 08:30 am
Session 3. Advanced Catalytic Technologies for Sustainable Energy and
Chemicals
08:30 am - 09:05 am
09:10 am - 09:45 am
09:50 am - 10:25 am
10:30 am - 10:45 am
10:45 am - 11:20 am
11:25 am - 12:00 pm
12:05 pm - 01:20 pm
Session 4. Innovative CO2 Utilization in Energy Transition and
Sustainable Fuels
01:20 pm - 01:55 pm
02:0 pm -02:35 pm
02:40 pm - 03:15 pm
03:20 pm - 03:45 pm
03:45 pm - 04:45 pm
04:45 pm - 05:15 pm
06:00 pm - 07:30 pm
07:45 am - 08:30 am
Session 5. Innovative Reactor and Catalytic Processes in Energy and
Chemical Transitions
08:30 am - 09:05 am
09:10 am - 09:45 am
090:50 am - 10:25 am
10:30 am - 10:45 am
10:45 am - 11:20 am
11:25 am -12:00 pm
12:05 pm -12:30 pm
SPEAKERS
Prof. Javier Ruiz Martinez
Conference Chair
Assistant Professor
Physical Science and Engineering Division
KAUST Catalysis Center Platform
Prof. Pedro Castaño
Conference Chair
Associate Professor
Physical Science and Engineering Division
KAUST Catalysis Center Platform
H.E Dr. Munir M. Eldesouki is currently the President of KACST.
His 21 years of experience span the spheres of government, R&D, technology, and Innovation, where he played influential roles at different levels as seasoned researcher, inventor and leader setting national strategies, driving execution and shaping R&D, innovation and ICT & Digital ecosystems of Saudi Arabia.
Previously, H.E. Dr. Eldesouki held various C-level positions in the Saudi government. Where he was the Assistant Minister of ICT, the Deputy Minister of Planning and Development at Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), as well as the Senior Advisor in establishing new government entities and vision 2030 programs. In addition, H.E. Dr. Eldesouki had led several research institutes and programs with international collaborators from the US, UK, Switzerland, Canada, China, South Africa, Belarus and others from both private and public sectors. He also managed a number of national institutes and centers related to innovation, material science, and nanotechnology.
He has also headed or was a member of many national-level committees such as the Executive Committee for the Digital Collaboration Organization, the Digital Economy Task Force under the Saudi G20 2020 Presidency and the 2021 Italian Presidency, and the Governing Board for Global Research Council. In addition to his membership in other national boards including Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Award to honor inventors and talented individuals, Chairman for the Board of Trustees of Almari Award for Scientific Innovation, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in KSA in affiliation with the WEF, and member of the following boards of directors: the Saudi Space Commission, Hevolution Foundation, the King Abdulaziz & his Companions Foundation for Giftedness & Creativity (Mawhiba), the King Salman Science Oasis, the General Organization for Military Industries, the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information, and the Saudi Business Center, and the Saudi Center for Competitiveness.
Catalytic Conversion of Polyolefins to Fuels, Lubricants, and Olefins
Professor Dion Vlachos
Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Catalysis Center for Energy
Innovation, RAPID Manufacturing Institute, Delaware Energy Institute, University
of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716-3110
Abstract: This talk will provide an overview of the different approaches for converting polyolefins to various products, including fuels, lubricants, and small olefins. It will also provide mechanistic insights into methane formation pathways and ways to minimize its
formation. The talk will discuss the need for earth-abundant catalysis, additives, mixed plastics, and the role of heat transfer in product distribution. It will introduce novel reactors, and electrification means to advance the catalytic conversion.
Biography: Vlachos is the Unidel Dan Rich Energy Chaired Professor of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering and Physics and Astronomy at the University of Delaware. He is the Director of the Delaware Energy Institute (DEI) and was the director of an Energy Frontier Research Center (EFRC) funded by DOE (2009-2024). His research focuses on the circular economy, waste derivatization, catalysis, multiscale modeling, distributed manufacturing, process intensification, novel catalytic reactors, and renewable fuels and chemicals. He holds twenty patents, patent applications, and disclosures. His research has led to three start-up companies.
Systematic development of next-generation processes for
chemical hydrogen carriers
Professor AndreasPeschel1,2
1Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Institute for a Sustainable Hydrogen Economy (INW), Jülich, Germany; 2RWTH Aachen University, Aachener Verfahrenstechnik, Process and Plant Engineering for Chemical Hydrogen Storage, Aachen, Germany
Abstract: Hydrogen and hydrogen-based energy carriers will play a key role in the defossilization of the global energy system. To reduce climate-relevant emissions, most industrialized countries in Europe and Asia must import large quantities of low-carbon energy sources. Green and blue hydrogen promise to provide a possible energy form, which does not create local, decentralized CO2 emissions. However, if pipeline supply with hydrogen is not possible, chemical hydrogen carriers come into play. Here, the most promising chemical hydrogen carriers are ammonia, methanol, dimethyl-ether and liquid-organic hydrogen carriers. In this contribution, drivers for the most economic and sustainable production and use case integration of different chemical hydrogen carriers are shown and implications on the next generation of chemical processes discussed. The first driver is load-flexible production of the carrier. Especially in case of green production, a systematic and integrated design of the green power source, the electrolyzers, the battery and hydrogen buffers and – last but not least – the chemical synthesis of the carrier is necessary. This leads to the requirement of deep part-load capacity for the chemical synthesis plant to reduce hydrogen storage and save costs. The second driver is efficient transport and storage. Here, ammonia and methanol have the advantages of existing infrastructure. However, dimethyl-ether has large advantages in its
energy density and the possibility to recycle CO2 to the location of production. The third driver is the use case integration of the chemical hydrogen carriers for hydrogen, heat and electricity production. This offers significant potential for further cost reduction.
Biography: Prof. Dr.-Ing Andreas Peschel is a full Professor of Process and Plant Engineering
for Chemical Hydrogen Storage at RWTH Aachen University and Director at the Institute for a Sustainable Hydrogen Economy (INW-4) at Forschungszentrum Jülich. Before his current position, he served as Head of Chemical Technology Germany at Linde Engineering, where he guided advanced research and development in hydrogen & syngas as well as petrochemical technologies. His earlier career includes roles as an R&D Process Engineer and Project Manager at Linde Engineering, as well as a research assistant at the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics of Complex Technical Systems, where he completed his PhD on the model-based esign of optimal chemical reactors.
Prof. Andreas Peschel holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on Process Engineering from RWTH Aachen University and has conducted research in Process System Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University. With his industrial and academic experience, he combines deep know-how in process and plant design for hydrogen, syngas & downstream chemicals with technology portfolio management, patent strategy, and commercialization of new processes.
Harnessing complex reaction networks in hydrocarbon conversion:
from conventional refining over circularity towards renewables
Professor Joris W. Thybaut
Laboratory for Chemical Technology, Ghent University, B-9052 Ghent, Belgium
Abstract:
The production of chemicals and fuels, be it from conventional fossil resources or from circular feedstocks or even renewable ones, typically involves the handling of complex mixtures. Recognizing that the reactivity in such mixtures is governed by that of moieties rather than molecules allows formulating strategies for harnessing the overall reaction behavior of such mixture within a limited number of parameters with a well-defined physical meaning. Skeletal rearrangement and cracking reactions, together with hetero atom removal, are at the basis of hydrocarbon stream quality upgrading. Streams from a fossil (VGO) as well as from a circular (pyrolysis oils) origin require adequate treatment prior to being sent for base chemicals and (sustainable aviation) fuel production. The PR1ME software framework, encompassing routines for feedstock reconstruction based on Shannon entropy maximization, intrinsic kinetics employing the Single-Event MicroKinetic strategy and a multi-scale reactor model for a trickle-bed reactor, has been developed as a forefront tool to assess and steer commercial hydroconversion production data and operation. It allows the fundamental interpretation of historical data as well as the design of novel configurations. A continuous lumping strategy presents itself as the logic choice for handling renewable feedstocks such as lignin fractions. With the molecular weight as the continuous variable and adequate activity space and yield distribution function, an accurate reproduction of lignin depolymerization comes within reach.
Biography: Joris W. Thybaut (°1975, Ghent Belgium) is full professor in catalytic reaction engineering at the Laboratory for Chemical Technology at Ghent University since 2014. He obtained his PhD on Single-Event MicroKinetic (SEMK) modeling of hydrocracking and hydrogenation at Ghent University in 2002 after which he went to the 'Institut des Recherches sur la Catalyse' in Lyon, France, for a postdoc on high throughput experimentation. Prof. Thybaut actively investigates a variety of large-scale industrial hydrocarbon conversion reactions and more particularly, the rational design of the corresponding catalysts, reactors and processes. Research projects range from bilateral contracts with industrial partners up to government funded large scale integrated projects, either as PI (DELICARE, NEXT-STEP, COP-CAT, NextBioRef,…) or coordinator (e-CODUCT, GREEN-B2B, OBIWAN…). Prof. Thybaut served as visiting professor at the Japanese Advanced Institute for Science and Technology in the period 2020-2021. He’s also one of the leading academics in the Eurokin consortium on kinetics and reactors(www.eurokin.org). A steady evolution from classical refining reactions to renewables valorization and circularity is evident from his research
activities.
CO2/H2 conversion to hydrocarbons - the oxygenate approach
Professor Unni Olsbye
Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, 0315 Oslo, Norway
Abstract: Studies of process intensification by combining catalysts for conversion of syngas to methanol and methanol to hydrocarbons in a single reactor, so-called tandem catalysis, were published by Fujimoto et al. in 1985 [1]. A decade later, Inui et al. [2] and Fujiwara et al. [3] expanded the scope by converting CO2/H2 via methanol to hydrocarbons, forming mainly paraffins. A break-through that initiated world-wide interest came in 2016, when Jiao et al. [4] and Cheng et al. [5] mixed SAPO-34 with ZnCrOx and ZrZnOx, respectively, and obtained up to 80 % and 74% C2-C4 olefins selectivity from a H2/CO feed. However, conversion was limited, and even today, maintaining high olefins selectivity at high CO2 conversion remains a challenge.
In this lecture, focus will be set on recent studies from our group and collaborators [6]-[10].
First, on MOF-based catalysts which were used as well-defined model materials. They yielded mechanistic insight that was later applied in the selection of dense, ZrOx based catalysts for the tandem reaction. Second, on studies where those materials were combined with zeolites and zeotypes with diverse pore structure and composition, yielding site-function correlations, followed by a general conclusion and outlook.
References
1. Fujimoto, K. etal., H. J. Catal., 1985, 94, 16.
2. Inui, T. et al., Appl. Catal. A, Gen., 1993, 94, 31.
3. Fujiwara, M. et al., Appl. Catal. A, Gen., 1995, 121, 113.
4. Jiao, F. et al., Science, 2016, 351, 1065.
5. Cheng, K. et al., Angew. Chemie Int. Ed., 2016, 128, 4803.
6. Gutterod, E.S. et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2020, 142, 999; J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2020, 142, 17105.
7. Pulumati, S.H., ACS Catalysis, 2024, 14, 1, 382.
8. Xie, J. et al. ACS Catalysis, 2022, 12, 1520; Chem. Rev., 2023, 123, 11775.
9. Airi, A. et al., Cat. Sci. & Techn., 2022, 12(9), 2775.
10. Cordero-Lanzac, T. et al., JACS Au 2024, 4, 2, 744.
Biography: Unni Olsbye is full Professor in Chemistry at the University of Oslo since 2002. Her research group focuses on catalysis for sustainable valorization of light molecules (C1-C3), such as CO2, CH4 and CH3OH. Emphasis is set on the elucidation of structure-function correlations for desired and undesired reactions, as a means to develop and optimize catalysts and processes. Prof. Olsbye obtained an MSc in Industrial Chemistry at NTNU, Norway, in 1987, and a PhD in Organic Chemistry at the University of Oslo (UiO), Norway, in 1991. She then worked at SINTEF and Nordox Industrier before returning to UiO as Associate Professor in 2001. In 2008-15 she was managing director of inGAP, a national center for research-based innovation. She is elected member of the Norwegian Academy of Technical Sciences and the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters. She received several awards, among them the Award of Excellence in Natural gas conversion in 2019.
Use ofbiomass for sustainable electrocatalysts in low-temperature fuel cells
Professor StefaniaSpecchia
Department of Applied Science and Technology, Gre.En2 Group, Politecnico di Torino, Torino, Italy
Abstract: Fuel cells are devices that efficiently convert the chemical energy of a fuel into electrical energy via electrochemical reactions. Among the wide variety of fuel cell types, low temperature fuel cells (PEMFC and AEMFC) are promising for transportation and portable applications, since they can operate close to ambient conditions. The main drawbacks of low temperature fuel cells are represented by the use of costly Pt-based electrocatalysts at both the anode and the cathode, and in particular the sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at the cathode side. Among several types of electrocatalysts for ORR, the most promising alternative to Pt until now are carbonaceous materials doped with N and transition metals(mostly Fe, Co). This lecture will address the main synthesis techniques adopted for the sustainable production of Fe-N-C electrocatalysts, included the use of biomass as carbon source in a circular economy perspective.
Biography: Stefania Specchia, Chemical Engineer, Full Professor of Chemical Plants Design at the Politecnico di Torino (Italy). Associated Research at the CNR-ITAE “Nicola Giordano” (Italy). Lecturer of three courses: Design of Multiphase Apparatuses, Batteries & Fuel Cells for Energy Transition, Hydrogen Production for Sustainable Transport. Executive Editor for Chemical Engineering Journal (Elsevier) and Electrochemical Energy Reviews (Springer). She authored/co-authored 148 peer-reviewed publications on international journals, 8 chapters of international books, 1 international patent (on Google Scholar database: Hirsch index equal to 55, more than 7600 citations). She attended 83 international congresses (30 as invited keynote). Research activities: she is the leader of the Gre.En2 Group (Green Energy & Engineering Group). Main research topics in EU and national research projects, and various international cooperation: 1. Catalytic combustion of light hydrocarbons in lean conditions;
2. Hydrogen production in fuel processors; 3. Low-temperature fuel cells (PEMFC and DMFC); 4. Energetic valorization of wastes (overall funding: ~2 M€).
Shedding light on active sites in heterogeneous catalysis: a multi-scale and multi-technique exploration of their (evolving) nature, identity, and kinetic consequences
Professor Matteo Maestri
Politecnico di Milano, Italy
Abstract:
Pending
Biography: Matteo Maestri is a Full Professor of Chemical Engineering at Politecnico di Milano (Italy). His research focuses on applying chemistry and chemical engineering to energy and sustainable processes, with a particular emphasis on catalytic kinetics and multiscale modeling of catalytic processes. Utilizing a range of methodologies, his work encompasses atomistic (DFT) calculations, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and kinetic analysis to operando-spectroscopy (operando Raman and UV-vis). He has been a visiting scholar at the University of Delaware (USA) and, as an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow, at the Fritz-Haber-Institute (Berlin) and TUM Munich. Honors include the TUM Ambassador title (2021) from TUM Munich and the “Gian Paolo Chiusoli Gold Medal in Catalysis” (2022) from the Italian Chemical Society. He has led multiple competitive funding initiatives, including three ERC grants (StG 2015, PoC 2020, 2022), and serves as an Editor for the Chemical Engineering Journal (Elsevier).
Hunting sustainable energy – the role of CCUS and hydrogen on catalyzing the energy transition.
Professor Lourdes Vega
Research and Innovation Center on CO2 and Hydrogen (RICH Center) and Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, PO Box 127788, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Abstract: One of the greatest challenges we are facing today is our ability to provide sustainable energy sources to meet the demands for quality of life and economic growth without compromising the quality of life of future generations. Addressing this energy challenge should cover supply and demand, security, and environmental concerns, while also providing affordable solutions. After the Paris Agreement, several countries have defined their strategies to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 while securing the needed energy supply. The International Energy Agency (IEA)1 states that reaching net zero emissions demands profound transformations in the energy sector, including energy efficiency, behavioural changes, electrification, renewables, bioenergy, hydrogen and hydrogen-based fuels, and carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). Furthermore, in the recent “World energy transition outlook” report launched by IRENA,2 CCUS and hydrogen are listed as two of the six
technological avenues to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. However, the data evaluating the progress up to 2030 to achieve these goals1 shows that CCUS and hydrogen are not on track, and considerable efforts are needed in this direction, including radical technology transformations, some of which will be addressed at this presentation. After a general overview, we will focus on some recent advances by our team on materials for CO2 capture, novel catalytic materials for CO2 reduction34 and hydrogen production, as well as catalytic materials for bio-oil upgrading5 designed by combining computational modeling tools with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools (machine learning). While some of the selected ones have been already explored experimentally (and validated in our approach), the AI-computational modeling approach also opens the door to experimentally exploring the most promising novel ones not tested yet for these applications. Finally, results on the application of 2D materials as proton conductive membranes for hydrogen PEM applications will also be presented.6
Acknowledgements: Financial support for this work was provided by Khalifa University, through the RICH Center (RC2-2019-007). Additional support has been provided by the Research and Innovation Center for Graphene and 2D-Materials (RIC2D Center) funded by the United Arab Emirates Presidential Court.
1. International Energy Agency (2022), Energy System Overview, IEA, Paris https://www.iea.org/reports/energy-system-overview , License: CC BY 4.0
2. World Energy Transitions Outlook 2022: 1.5°C Pathway. IRENA. March 2022. ISBN: 978-92-9260-429-5 https://www.irena.org/Publications/2022/Mar/World-Energy-Transitions-Outlook-2022
3. LF Vega, D Bahamon, III Alkhatib. Perspectives on Advancing Sustainable CO2 Conversion Processes: Trinomial Technology, Environment, and Economy. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering 12 (14), 5357-5382 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c07133
4. Y Li, D Bahamon, J Albero, N López, LF Vega. Systematic screening of transition-metal-doped hydroxyapatite for efficient photocatalytic CO2 reduction. Journal of CO2 Utilization 80, 102692 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcou.2024.102692
5. S AlAreeqi, D Bahamon, III Alkhatib, K Polychronopoulou, LF Vega. Advanced computational modelling for biofuel catalyst optimization: enhancing beta zeolite acidity for oleic acid upgrading. Biofuel Research Journal 11 (3), 2194-2210 (2024) 10.18331/BRJ2024.11.3.5
6. Tong, J., Fu, Y., Domaretskiy, D. et al. Control of proton transport and hydrogenation in double-gated graphene. Nature 630, 619–624 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07435-8
Biography: Dr. Lourdes F. Vega is a Full Professor in Chemical Engineering, Diector and Founder of the Research and Innovation Center on CO2 and Hydrogen (RICH Center) and Theme Lead on Energy and Hydrogen at the Research and Innovation Center for Graphene and 2D materials (RIC2D) at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. She has developed her career between academia and industry, with positions in the USA, Spain, and the UAE. An expert on computational modeling and energy, she is internationally recognized for moving fundamental science to the applied world in the areas of clean energy and sustainable products, focused on Hydrogen and its derivatives, CO2 capture and utilization, sustainable fuels, water treatment and sustainable cooling systems. The impact of her work has been recognized through several prestigious awards, including, among others, the V60 recognition as one of the 60 impactful Women in the Middle East driving sustainability in 2024, the 2020 Mohammed Bin Rashid Medal of Scientific Distinguishment for her contributions in clean energy and sustainable products. She is an elected Fellow of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), an Academician of the Royal Academy of Science of Spain, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Academy of Scientists in the UAE, and the Academy of Sciences of Granada. Prof. Vega is a member of the Mission Innovation on Clean Hydrogen (representing the UAE), she also serves on the Scientific Advisory Board of several other international institutions and the Board of Directors (non-executive Director) of two companies (chemical and water sectors).
Chemical Looping - An Environmentally Friendly Approach for Energy and Chemicals
Professor Mohammad M. Hossain
Department of Chemical Engineering, Interdisciplinary Research Center for Refining & Advanced Chemicals (IRC-RAC), King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
Abstract: In the last two decades, chemical looping combustion (CLC) has been extensively investigated as a promising approach for CO2 capture from fossil fuel-based power plants. A Circulating fluidized bed process involving a durable oxygen carrier can open the door for CLC with inherent CO2 capture using NG, diesel, heavy residues, coal and biomass as fuels in industrial scale electricity generation. Therefore, the application of CLC and CO2 capture/use will secure the continuation of cheaper fossil energy-based power generation until the renewable alternatives reach to their competitiveness. On the other hand, the chemical looping approach can also be implemented for chemical and hydrogen production – which will not only enhance the overall process efficiency but also significantly contribute to the minimization of CO2 emission. The chemical-looping strategy offers opportunities for process intensification and exergy loss minimization. An integrated CLC and chemical-looping chemical/hydrogen production will also create the opportunity for capture and use of CO2 in chemicals production – a way of realization of the circular carbon economy. In many cases, the reduction of energy consumption is significant enough that the decrease of CO2 emission target can be achieved without CO2 capture.
Biography: Dr. M. Mozahar Hossain is a Professor in Chemical Engineering and affiliate of the Center for Refining & Advanced Chemicals at King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM). Before joining KFUPM, he worked as a Senior Research Engineer at Headwaters Technology Innovation, NJ, USA. He also worked as a visiting researcher at the PSE Laboratory, Hokkaido University, Japan. Dr. Hossain is a registered Professional Engineer (PEng) - ON, Canada. He is Co-Editor-in-Chief of International Journal of Chemical Reactor Engineering – De-Gruyter; Subject Editor of Arabian Journal of Science and Engineering - Springer and Topics Board Editor Catalysts-MDPI. He also serves as a Guest Editor of Renewable Energy - Elsevier (Virtual Special Issue of “Multiscale computational simulation of biomass gasification and its product upgrading) and The Chemical Record - Wiley (Recent Advances in Chemistry/Materials (Saudi Arabia); Chemical Engineering Research and Design - Elsevier (Virtual Special Issue of “Chemical Engineering in the Middle East – Challenges and Opportunities) and Catalysts - MDPI (Special Issue "Commemorative in Honor of Professor Hugo de Lasa"). Prof. Hossain’s areas of research are Catalysis and Chemical Reaction Engineering. Last twenty-five years, he has conducted research on hydrocarbon conversion to produce valuable chemicals, H2/syngas; CO2 capture/use and biomass gasification. He successfully managed over 5 million USD Industrial and Government funded research grants,
supervised/co-supervised 30 MSc, 10 PhDs and 5 Postdoctoral researchers; published over 200 refereed articles in reputable ISI journals and 150+ conference contributions. He is a lead inventor of 23 USA issued and 15 filed patents. Prof. Hossain presented invited lectures in several occasions at CSChE – Canada, KACST - Riyadh, University of Bahrain and JCCP – Japan. In 2020, 2023 and 2024, his name appeared in the list of world top 2% scientists – published in Elsevier/Stanford University, USA.
Tandem catalysis opens new routes to low-carbon-footprint e-fuels and chemicals
Professor Gonzalo Prieto Gonzalez
Catalysis Engineering & Small Molecule Valorization, ITQ-Institute of Chemical Technology, Valencia, Spain
Abstract: The selective conversion of C1 building blocks of renewable origin will play a central role to decarbonize the chemical and energy sectors through the production of low carbon-footprint, ideally net zero, chemicals and synthetic fuels. Syngas (H2+CO) is a particularly versatile C1 building block. Catalytic syngas conversion is “agnostic” as to the carbonaceous source (biomass, biogas, captured CO2, etc) and it will therefore play central role to connect renewable C1 feeds to different value chains. At present, industrial-scale syngas conversion processes proceed either through dissociative CO activation followed by unselective C-C bond propagation (in the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis of hydrocarbons), or through an associative CO activation with no C-C coupling (in the methanol synthesis). Beyond these two extreme cases, it is highly desirable to develop new syngas conversion routes towards specific chain lengths and/or with the retention of heteroatom functionality (O, N). Tandem catalysis, i.e. the integration of two or more mechanistically decoupled reactions in a single conversion step, offers possibilities to decouple CO activation, C-C chain growth and (hydro)functionalization on different catalysts, potentially leading to product selectivities and yields which are out of reach for multi-step conversion schemes. In this contribution, recent examples shall be presented how tandem catalysis can be leveraged to produce a range of commodity chemicals and synthetic (e-fuels) from e-/bio-syngas in a single step, with high carbon yield and selectivity. Central aspects for the design and optimization of tandem catalysts and processes will be discussed: intercatalyst spacing, harmonization of rates of formation, transport and secondary conversion of intermediate products, catalyst compatibility, etc
Biography: Gonzalo Prieto obtained his PhD in 2010 at the Polytechnic University of Valencia (Spain). Following appointments as postdoctoral researcher at Utrecht University (The Netherlands) and as group leader at the Max Planck für Kohlenforschung (Mülheim, Germany). Since fall 2018 he leads the research group Catalysis Engineering for Sustainability at the ITQ Institute for Chemical Technology, Valencia (Spain). His group research interests are in the design of solid catalysts and processes for the selective activation and valorization of unconventional, e.g. C1 and N1 feedstocks into commodity chemicals and sustainable energy carriers. Prieto is the recipient of two prestigious ERC grants by the European Research Council, and coordinator of R&D efforts towards the development of innovative carbon-neutral e-fuels under the Horizon Europe programme of the EU. Prieto has supervised 8 PhD theses, and mentored several undergrad and postdoc researchers. His team’s research activities has
led to about 60 scientific publications in renown journals and ca. 15 patents and patent applications, several of which have been transferred to industry for exploitation.
Multifunctional nanoparticles for thermocatalytic conversion of CO2 using induction heating
Professor Maricruz Sánchez-Sánchez
Institute of Chemical, Environmental, and Bioscience Engineering, TU Wien, Getreidemarkt 9/166, 1060 Vienna, Austria
Abstract: We explore different approaches to convert CO2 into valuable products via thermocatalytic processes, using heterogeneous catalysts based on earth-abundant metals. One of such reactions is the reverse water gas shift (RWGS) reaction, that converts captured CO2 streams into syngas. RWGS is an endothermic reaction and requires temperatures above 400 °C to achieve substantial conversions. The use of self-heating catalysts that are able to reach reaction temperatures via magnetic induction can bring catalytic systems to high energetic efficiencies (1). We show that ferromagnetic Fe, Co and Fe oxide nanoparticles supported on
mesoporous oxides can heat up to 700 °C via hysteresis losses when placed under an alternating magnetic field, and efficiently catalyse the RWGS reaction (2). The heating via induction allows for fast response to temperature control loops and an efficient use of energy, as the bulk of the reactor can work at substantially lower temperatures than with conventional heating. However, at the temperatures targeted for energy-intensive chemical reactions such as RWGS, the surface of magnetic nanoparticles is subject to dynamic changes and can also chemically react with the environment, changing in composition and structure and, thus, affecting its magnetic properties. Combined X-ray absorption spectroscopy and diffraction shows the interconversion and evolution of different Fe(Co) metal, mixed oxide and carbide phases under RWGS conditions and set the basis for understanding how materials properties can be adjusted for an optimal and stable performance in an induction reactor.
- M. Ambrosetti, A perspective on power-to-heat in catalytic processes for decarbonization, Chemical Engineering and Processing - Process Intensification 182, 2022,109187,
- Sanchez-Sanchez, M. & Spyroglou, S. Austrian patent application A 50463/2024 A self-heating catalyst for CO2 conversion to syngas.
Biography: Maricruz Sánchez-Sánchez was born in Granada, Spain, where she studied Chemical Engineering. She moved to the Institute of Catalysis and Petrochemistry in Madrid for her PhD studies in catalysts for H2 production via bioethanol steam reforming. In 2010 she joined as postdoctoral fellow the department of Inorganic Chemistry of the Fritz-Haber-Institut in Berlin, where her research focused on selective oxidation catalysts for functionalization of alkanes. Afterwards, she was assistant professor at the Technical University of Munich – where she habilitated in 2020 - with main focus in the research of catalytic applications of zeolites for hydrocarbon conversions. In 2017 she was awarded the Jochen Block Prize of the German Catalysis Society. Since 2021 she is Full Professor of Chemical Engineering at TU Wien, in Vienna, Austria, where she leads a research group in sustainable catalytic processes. Along her career, Maricruz Sánchez has acquired a broad view of the different aspects of heterogeneous catalysis, spanning from fundamental understanding of catalytic mechanisms to the engineering concepts. In recent years she has expanded her research topics of reactor electrification approaches and the use of magnetic nanoparticles for induction heating.
What is the role of Nafion in the electroreduction of CO2 into ethylene
Doctor Daniel Curulla-Ferre
D. Un Lee, D. R. Oh , J. M. Jenny, T. F. Jaramillo,
TotalEnergies OneTech Belgium, TotalEnergies S.E.;SUNCAT Center for Interface Science and
Catalysis, Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University
Abstract: The electroreduction of CO2 into added-value products has been studied extensively in the past few years. Gas difussion electrodes (GDE) are prepared using several components; carbon is used to enhance electron transport across the GDE, copper is generally used as an active metal for the electroreduction of CO2, PTFE is used to avoid flooding and Nafion® is found in all GDE formulations to enhance the concentration of protons in the vicinity of the catalytic center. In the paper, we deep-dive in the role of each component and optimise the formulation of the GDE. We found that the presence of Nafion® decreases the
performance of CO2 reduction into ethylene and that those materials formulated without Nafion® yield the highest Faraday efficiency to ethylene. The best result we have obtained with Cu as single-metal active component is 37% Faraday efficiency to ethylene. We have also observed that those electrocatalysts formulated without Nafion® increase the production of liquid products, and that the presence of Nafion® just utilises this excedent of current density that is captured in the formation of liquid products to dramatically enhance the evolution of hydrogen at the electrocatalyst. From a more fundamental point of view, we also found that the evolution of ethylene at the electrode is not correlated with that of carbon monoxide, which
questions the accepted mechanistic path in which ethylene is formed by coupling of two CO molecules. Of course, the macroscopic analysis of the performance of the electrocatalyst does not necessarily exclude such elementary step at microscopic level.
Hydrogen
Faraday efficiency versus the total sum of Faraday efficiencies of gas
products classified by content of Nafion® in the formulation of the GDE.
Biography: Daniel Curulla holds a degree in Chemistry (1996) and a PhD in Chemistry (2001) from the University Rovira i Virgili in Spain. He began his career as a research associate at the Technical University of Eindhoven in the Netherlands, where he worked from 2001 to 2007. In 2008, he joined TotalEnergies in Paris, France, as a research project
manager. Since 2013, he has been part of TotalEnergies' research center for catalysis and polymers. Currently, Daniel is a senior scientist specializing in catalysis and a senior specialist in machine learning and design of experiments. He is responsible for transforming R&D into a
data-centric activity. His research spans various fields of catalysis and polymers, including the development of Fischer-Tropsch catalysts, catalysts for CO2 conversion into methanol, membranes for CO2 purification, membrane reactors for propane dehydrogenation, electrocatalysts for CO2 conversion into chemicals, mechanical recycling of plastics, feed evaluation in pyrolysis, and the development of design of experiments and machine learning algorithms for catalysis and polymer research. Daniel has published over 90 peer-reviewed scientific papers and is a co-inventor on more than 20 patent families. In addition to his work in chemistry, he holds a degree in software engineering from the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya and is currently completing a master's degree in data science at the same university.
He has also received training in life cycle analysis, project management, and innovation management. Throughout his career, Daniel has collaborated with prestigious universities such as ETH Zurich, Stanford University, the University of Amsterdam, Utrecht University, and Bayreuth University.
Catalysis for sustainable chemicals production
Doctor Andrei-Nicolae Parvulescu
BASF, Monomer Division, Germany
Abstract: The chemical industry remains a key pillar for economic
development, providing products and materials that enable solutions across all sectors. It is also crucial for achieving climate goals and managing earth's resources effectively. However, the industry is impacted by the energy transition and the need to switch towards a circular economy, necessitating new philosophies for building and operating plants, as well as new chemical processes with increased efficiency and lower energy consumption. This challenge presents opportunities for designing new chemical processes and improving existing ones. Catalysis plays a significant role in this transformation, both in designing and producing catalysts and in operating
catalytic processes. Zeolites, as a major class of heterogeneous catalysts, are instrumental in this transformation. In this lecture some examples of how heterogenous catalysts can help to develop new chemical processes to molecules of interest would be
discussed. In addition, the challenges that still need to be addressed in the field would be discussed.
Biography: Dr. Andrei Parvulescu graduated chemistry at the University of Bucharest and received his Master degree in Catalysis and Catalytic Processes at the same university in 2005. After defending the PhD in KU Leuven under the supervision of Profs. Pierre Jacobs and Dirk De Vos, he has been postdoctoral fellow at Utrecht University with Prof. Bert Weckhuysen. In 2011 he joined the BASF SE, Ludwigshafen in the global Process Research & Chemical Engineering department working on zeolite research catalysis. Since 2020 he moved to BASF Monomers Division within the role of Global Technology Manager. In his current position his is supporting investment projects, plant operations as well as managing new
technology developments, R&D activities and IP within isocyanates value chain of the BASF Monomers Division. From 2018 until 2020 he was managing the BASF research network INCOE (International Network of Centers of Excellence in Zeolite Catalysis with academic partners from Japan, China, Belgium, Germany) Dr. Parvulescu co-authored 65 publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals
and is co-inventor of 145 patent and patent applications. Since 2019 he serves as an elected member of the Advisory Board of the German Zeolite Association of Dechema.
Enhancing VOC abatement trough synergetic effects of Cu-Mn catalysts in ozone-assisted catalytic oxidation
Doctor Alexandra Bouriakova
Laboratory for Chemical Technology, Ghent University, B-9052 Ghent, Belgium
Abstract: The catalytic removal of volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) is one of the key strategies for addressing
environmental and health concerns. Traditional catalytic oxidation (CCO), which utilizes oxygen as the oxidant, is a well-established method for reducing VOC emissions. However, CCO typically requires higher operational temperatures, resulting in more substantial energy consumption. In contrast, ozone-assisted catalytic oxidation (OzCO) has emerged as a promising alternative, offering the advantage of efficiently eliminating VOCs at lower temperatures, typically below 150 °C. Despite the growing interest in OzCO, its efficiency in VOC abatement is not yet fully understood nor explored in detail. The present work more specifically explored the effect of Cu/Mn molar ratios on the catalytic performance of Cu-Mn bimetallic catalysts for propane OzCO in comparison to the monometallic Cu and Mn catalysts. Kinetic tests were conducted using a novel experimental setup designed to acquire intrinsic kinetic data under precisely controlled, near-ambient pressure conditions. The bimetallic catalysts exhibited superior performance compared to their monometallic counterparts, attributed to synergistic interactions between Cu
and Mn, enhanced metal dispersion, improved reducibility facilitating oxygen vacancy formation, and increased surface adsorbed oxygen species. Further evaluation of the Cu1Mn bimetallic catalyst
under various operating conditions, including humidity, demonstrated its high catalytic activity and CO2 selectivity. The equimolar ratio optimized the coexistence of CuOx and MnOx species, with MnOx-facilitated O3 decomposition and CuOx-promoted CO oxidation to
CO2, resulting in enhanced CO2 selectivity. These findings provide valuable insights into the enhanced performance of Cu-Mn catalysts in OzCO, contributing to the development of more efficient and sustainable VOC removal technologies and supporting the transition toward energy-efficient solutions.
Biography: Alexandra Bouriakova (°1990) holds a MSc (2015) and a PhD (2021) in Chemical Engineering from Ghent University. After gaining experience in a consulting company, she returned to academia as a Doctor Assistant. Her research focuses on applied chemical engineering, with a focus on industrial collaboration and sustainable solutions. She is particularly interested in catalysis, the valorisation of by-products, and the abatement of waste streams,
aiming to address environmental challenges and improve industrial processes. In addition to her research, she is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of engineers, contributing to the development of a strong educational foundation for students
Advanced Photothermal Catalysts for Sustainable Chemistry
Enrique V. Ramos-Fernández
Advanced Catalytic Materials. King Abdullah University of Science and TechnologyThuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
Laboratory of Advanced MaterialsInorganic Chemistry DepartmentUniversity Materials Institute of AlicanteUniversity of Alicante
Abstract: Photothermal catalysis emerges as a cutting-edge approach, harnessing the synergy of solar irradiation and thermal energy to enhance catalytic reactions with improved efficiency and sustainability. This talk highlights recent advancements through three innovative studies focused on photothermal catalytic materials. In the first work, ruthenium nanoparticles encapsulated within hydrothermally synthesized carbon spheres demonstrate exceptional activity and stability for ammonia decomposition. This enhanced performance results from effective heat confinement and minimized metal sintering, underlining the pivotal role of the carbon matrix in photothermal responses. The second study introduces carbon-coated urchin-like silica nanospheres (KCC-1) embedded with ruthenium nanoparticles, significantly boosting catalytic efficiency in both ammonia decomposition and CO₂ hydrogenation reactions. This material uniquely leverages silica’s insulating properties and the carbon layer’s superior light absorption capabilities, achieving optimal photothermal performance. The third example illustrates an innovative catalyst capable of reversibly switching its active phase depending on illumination conditions: one active catalytic phase is formed under dark conditions, and a distinct active phase emerges when exposed
to light. Mechanistic insights from these studies emphasize the coexistence and synergy of thermal and non-thermal (photo-induced) effects, underscoring the critical importance of rational catalyst design in optimizing solar-driven catalytic systems.
Biography: Enrique V. Ramos Fernández earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science from the University of Alicante in 2008. Following this, he was awarded a Marie Curie fellowship to pursue scientific research at Delft University of Technology (TUDelft) in the Netherlands. He subsequently worked at the University of Amsterdam before joining the University of Alicante in 2014, where he serves as an associate professor (currently on a leave of absence). He is now a Senior Research Scientist at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). His research focuses on the development of porous materials for applications ranging from adsorption to catalysis. He has published over 100 papers in leading scientific journals.
Catalysing the Energy Transition: A case study in sustainable process technology development
Doctor David Watson
Head of New and Process Technology, Johnson Matthey, UK
Abstract: As the world transitions towards a circular carbon economy and use of renewable feedstocks increases, new approaches to development and deployment of process technology are required. As a leading supplier of sustainable technologies Johnson Matthey is at the forefront of the innovation to spearhead solutions that meet the evolving market needs of the energy and chemicals transition.
Technology for a circular and sustainable world also must accommodate all the aspects needed to successfully utilize renewable feedstocks and address the
requirements of sustainable value chains. These elements include new and varying feedstocks, dynamic rather than steady state operation, and deployment into new markets at different scales. All this needs to be achieved while maintaining a high level of safe and reliable performance. In this presentation, we will discuss both the challenges and opportunities for innovation that the transition brings and how Jonhson Matthey is advancing cutting edge catalysis and process technology to expedite this transition, using methanol as a case study.
Biography: Dr. David Watson is a chemical engineer with over 25 years’ experience in developing and commercialising new process technology. As Head of the New and Chemicals Process Technology group within Johnson Matthey’s Catalyst Technologies business unit he now focuses on advancing technologies for a circular carbon
economy and sustainable innovation.
Overcoming
Tradeoffs in Catalysis Through Atomically-Precise Materials
Professor Pedro Serna
ITQ-Institute of Chemical Technology, Valencia, Spain
Abstract: In this work, we discuss recent advances in the design of dispersed supported metal species to overcome relevant tradeoffs in catalysis. These tradeoffs include compromise of the catalytic activity to gain selectivity, and compromise of the catalyst stability to gain activity, among others, that impact important process metrics from both economic and environmental points of view. In the last few years, we have been investigating synthetic routes to manipulate solid catalysts at an atomic level, to overrule some long-lasting challenges that induce the stabilization of subnanometric forms of noble metals
in zeolites under severe redox stress, tradeoffs in the activity/selectivity of propane dehydrogenation PtSn catalysts, and inverse activity/stability relationships in the abatement of pollutants, for example. Success in these areas is, to a large extent, based on fine-tuning of the exact nuclearity and electronics of the metals using well-defined supports as precise macroligands. Key to this
objective is the combination of state-of-the-art characterization tools to gather information about the support, and the metal species under working conditions, when possible. Despite substantial progress in multiple topics, we have also faced barriers hard to overcome, and take this opportunity to share our experience on a few challenges that remain unresolved, to this date, and that appear to require more pronounced paradigm shifts.
Biography: Dr. Serna obtained his B.S. degree at the University of Valencia, Spain, in 2002. In 2008, he completed his PhD at the Instituto de Tecnologia Quimica (ITQ) under the supervisions of Prof. Corma. In this period, he investigated advanced design of experiments, high-throughput technology and machine learning, and applied them to several areas in catalysis. In 2009, Dr. Serna became a post-doc at the Gates’ group in UC-Davis (California, USA) after consolidation
of a Marie-Curie Fellowship. As a result, he became an expert on the synthesis, characterization and catalysis by single metal atoms and the small metal clusters in zeolites and metal oxides, with extensive experience operating Synchrotron Light Sources and USA National Labs (e.g. EXAFS, and high Resolution Electron Microscopy). In 2012, Dr. Serna returned as a post-doc to ITQ and was awarded with a Ramon y Cajal Fellowship. In 2014, he joined ExxonMobil Research and Engineering (New Jersey, USA) to expand his experiences
beyond academia. In 2018, he became the Section Head of the Catalysis Section at ExxonMobil, leading a team of top-class researchers focused on the development of catalytic technology for hydrocarbon transformations. Most of the work developed as an industrial researcher related to the design of catalysts and chemical processes with reduced CO2 emissions. In 2023, Dr. Serna
became an Associate Professor at ITQ and is working to raise funds to conduct impactful research in catalysis for low CO2 footprint industrial processes.
As a result of these experiences, Pedro is co-authoring more than 60
publications and 12 patent applications (7 presented with industry since 2015). Publications have been released in top multidisciplinar journals such as Science, Nat. Protoc, Nat. Catal., Nat. Commun., Angew. Chem., J. Am. Chem. Soc, Acc. Chem. Res., Chem. Eng. J., and ACS Catal. Total citations exceed 7700. Dr. Serna is a recipient of the 2014 Burgen Award by the Academy of Europe, the V Lilly Award to Young Researchers, and best Thesis by the Spanish Catalysis Society and the Polytechnic University of Valencia.
Transforming waste oils and fats into sustainable fuels and chemicals: A circular approach
Dr. Hirsa Torres Galvis
Ketjen, Netherlands BV
Abstract: pending
Biography: Dr. Hirsa Torres Galvis is the R&D Director at Ketjen Netherlands BV. With over a decade of experience at Ketjen (formerly Albemarle Catalysts), Dr. Torres Galvis has leveraged her extensive expertise in supported catalysts and her
proficiency in characterization and testing to drive the commercialization of innovative hydroprocessing catalysts for both conventional and alternative feedstocks. Dr. Torres Galvis holds a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry and Catalysis from Utrecht University, where she focused on developing Fe-based catalysts for the direct conversion of synthesis gas into lower olefins. Her groundbreaking work has been published in high-impact journals, garnered
numerous citations, and resulted in granted patents. This research remains highly relevant as the quest for alternative chemical production routes becomes increasingly urgent.
Phase tracking in fluidized beds via magnetic resonance imaging, electrical capacitance volume tomography and borescopic high-speed camera imaging
Professor Stefan Heinrich1
Nick Hildebrandt1, Lennard Lindmüller1, Melis Özdemir2, Swantje Pietsch-Braune1, Stefan Benders2, Alexander Penn2
1Hamburg University of Technology, Institute of Solids Process Engineering and Particle Technology, Hamburg, Germany; 2 Hamburg University of Technology, Institute of Process Imaging, Hamburg, Germany
Abstract: Fluidized bed systems have been used in industry for around 100 years. Conventional bubbling fluidized beds (BFB) are well understood. Mechanical vibration can improve the quality of fluidization of a system by reducing the minimum fluidization velocity and minimizing gas channeling and particle agglomeration. Despite the widespread use of vibrated fluidized beds, the fundamental physical understanding of the hydrodynamics occurring within them is still limited. The main reason for this is the fact that the spatial distribution of the phases is challenging to investigate experimentally because the systems are optically opaque. Additionally, conventional measurement techniques, such as intrusive probes, only yield solid concentration, particle velocity and bubble characteristics from one specific location of the bed and alter the flow. Therefore, non-intrusive tomographic techniques are increasingly being used to study them. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a technique that has been mainly
applied in the medical field, is particularly suited for obtaining spatially
and temporally resolved dynamic information from the interior of vibrated fluidized beds. In addition to experimental studies, numerical simulations can be used to gain an insight into the hydrodynamics during fluidization. A promising approach for simulating fluidized beds is the method known as CFD-DEM, which combines computational fluid dynamics and the discrete element method. In this contribution we present our progress in investigating the influence of mechanical vibrations and gas pulsation on the hydrodynamics in bubbling fluidized beds. One phenomenon that occurs at specific vibration frequencies and amplitudes is structured bubbling. It is characterized by repetitive, highly predictable bubble formations and could be observed in experiments and simulations.
In the case of circulating fluidized beds (CFB), the flow behavior of single particles and clusters in the riser section is still not fully understood. The reasons for this are complex and fast particle movements, which are hard to track with most sensors. For this work electrical capacitance volume tomography (ECVT) is compared to capacitance probes and borescopic high-speed camera particle tracking velocimetry (PTV). The experiments focus on the fast fluidization regime in the fully developed region of an 8 m high and 0.1 m diameter riser. ECVT and capacitance probe measurements led to comparable radial and axial solids volume fraction trends. Higher gas velocities in the riser and particle holdups lead to different concentration profiles. With borescopic PTV, particle trajectories were evaluated at different radial positions. In the radial center, mostly upward particle movement was detected. Horizontal and vertical particle movement could be evaluated individually.
Figure
1: (Left) Instantaneous MRI snapshot of a 3D bubbling fluidized bed. (Center)
Numerical CFD-DEM simulation of a system with comparable properties. (Right) Detected bubble via ECVT.
Biography: Stefan Heinrich is a process engineer with diploma, PhD and habilitation degrees from the University of Magdeburg. Since 2008 he is full professor and director of the Institute of Solids Process Engineering and Particle Technology of the Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH), Germany. He is the chairman of the DECHEMA/VDI working party on agglomeration and bulk solids technologies and chairman of the EFCE working party on agglomeration and member of the EFCE working party on mechanics of particulate solids. Stefan is also member of the DFG Collaborative Research Center 1615 “SMART Reactors”, of the judging panel for the IChemE Geldart Medal and works as executive editor of Advanced Powder Technology and as thematic editor of Particuology as well as editorial board member of Powder Technology. He is member of the selection committees of the renowned Dutch NWO Spinoza Price and NWO Stevin Prize. In 2019 Stefan was also the chairman of the Partec2019 in Nürnberg. His main research interests are fluidized bed technology, particle formulation with granulation, coating and agglomeration, drying of solids, development of composite materials, particle based simulation methods (DEM, population balance modelling) and coupling with continuum approaches (CFD), contact, deformation and breakage mechanics of particles as well as flowsheet simulation of solids processes. For his research activities in fluidized bed spray granulation Stefan received the DECHEMA-Prize 2015 and numerous other research awards.
3D printing as an enabling tool for process intensification of reactors
Professor Carlos Grande
Laboratory of Intensification of Materials and Processes (IMAP); Chemical Engineering Program, Physical Science and Engineering (PSE) Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
Abstract: Novel technologies of manufacturing like 3D printing allow us to have an unprecedented control on the transport phenomena occurring inside reactors. In reactors where exothermic or endothermic reactions take place, it is common to have strong radial and axial temperature profiles. Few examples will be shown showcasing few of the different possibilities to control transport phenomena in the production of chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
Biography: Carlos Grande is an Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering (PSE Division) at KAUST since September 2021. Before joining KAUST, he worked as Senior Scientist in SINTEF Industry in Oslo (Norway) for 10 years. He has a PhD from Porto University in Portugal (2005) where he also worked for 5 years as a Research Assistant. He graduated as Chemical Engineer in the University of
the South in Argentina (1998). He works with process intensification applied to separation and reaction processes with strong focus on adsorption and novel manufacturing techniques like 3D printing. He has over 140 publications in international journals (h-index = 55) and 7 patent applications.
Electrochemical conversion of high-pressure CO2
Professor Xu Lu
King Abdullah University of Science (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
Abstract: The electrochemical reduction of CO₂ (CO₂R) represents a promising strategy for closing the carbon loop in chemical manufacturing. To date, most efforts in this field have focused on
conducting CO₂ electrolysis under ambient pressure. However, in industrial contexts, CO₂ is commonly pressurized during capture, transportation, and storage, typically existing in either the gas phase or dissolved in solution. In this work, we demonstrate that applying a pressure of 50 bar alters CO₂R pathways, shifting the product selectivity toward formate—a trend consistently observed across widely used metal catalysts including Cu, Ag, Au, and Sn. To
investigate this phenomenon, we developed operando techniques capable of functioning under elevated pressures, notably a quantitative operando Raman spectroscopy method. These tools enabled us to link the enhanced formate selectivity to an increased surface coverage of CO₂ on the cathode. Guided by a combination of theoretical modeling and experimental insights, we further
engineered the copper electrode surface with a proton-repelling layer, thereby intensifying the pressure-induced preference for formate formation. Beyond C₁ products, we also identified the potential to electrochemically convert high-pressure gas-phase CO₂ into C₂ products, particularly ethylene (C₂H₄). Through theoretical calculations, we screened a set of copper alloys optimized
to facilitate the critical C–C dimerization step under high-pressure
conditions. Our strategy – upgrading pressurized CO₂ into valuable C₂H₄ while capturing the unreacted CO₂ – offers a dual benefit: improving the economic feasibility of CO₂ capture and significantly reducing the energy demands of the overall CO₂ utilization value chain.
Biography: Dr. Xu Lu obtained his B.S. and Ph.D. degrees from Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Hong
Kong in 2012 and 2017, respectively. He was then trained as a postdoctoral fellow in the Energy Sciences Institute, Yale University until 2020. Dr. Lu is now a Principal Investigator and Assistant Professor in Chemical Engineering at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). Dr. Lu’s group is highly focused on electrochemical upcycling of high-pressure CO2, primarily from the engineering and systems perspective. Dr. Lu is also the founder and chairman of HAdrogen Technology, a start-up that develops kilowatt-scale anion exchange membrane electrolyzers for real-field settings.
Managing electrons and anions in the solid state for catalysis
Prof. Yoji Kobayashi
The Inorganic Materials and Reactions Group, Chemical Science Program, Physical Science and Engineering (PSE) Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
Abstract: pending
Biography: pending
Sustainable chemistry for Low-Carbon Future
Doctor Mohnnad Alabsi
Aramco Research Center (ARC), King Abdullah University of Science, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
Abstract: CO₂ hydrogenation to fuels and chemicals is a cornerstone of the carbon circular economy and a critical enabler of national and corporate net-zero targets. This talk presents a perspective on integrated approaches under development, spanning direct CO₂-to-methanol synthesis, CO₂-to-e-fuels via bifunctional and mixed oxide catalysts, and multi-stage routes involving RWGS followed by
Fischer–Tropsch synthesis. Our strategy combines experimental catalyst screening and density functional theory (DFT) computation to uncover structure–activity relationships and guide the rational design of active, selective, and stable materials. The work will shed light on our journey from micro scale to reach piloting stage.
Biography: Dr. Mohnnad Alabsi is a lead research scientist at Saudi Aramco, specializing in Catalysis, CO₂ hydrogenation and downstream oil and gas chemistry. With extensive experience in refining and upgrading processes, he focuses on developing innovative solutions to transform CO₂ into valuable commodities, aiming to drive advancements in sustainable energy and environmental stewardship. He holds a Ph.D. in chemistry from KAUST, graduated in 2022 focused on catalysis (CO2 hydrogenation to methanol). He also obtained his master degree in chemistry from Sacred Heart University, US, and obtained several awards during his career among those, leadership awards and excellence awards from TOC (Aramco).
KAUST Centers of Excellence
KAUST Launches Four Pioneering Centers of Excellence to Address Key National and International Priorities
KAUST CORE LABS
KAUST hosts a wide range of sophisticated instruments and world-class facilities that students can access, including the Prototyping and Product Development Core Lab, and laboratories involving robotics and embedded systems, sensors, intelligent autonomous systems and biotechnology. Specific labs will be identified based on the curriculum and individual projects.
KAUST IMPACT
KAUST Impact Summer 2024, the latest edition
of the magazine.
KAUST IMPACT
A NEW ERA FOR KAUST
Our unrelenting commitment to research, innovation and talent has seen KAUST establish itself as one of the leading research universities in the world, ranking #1 for citations per faculty globally, with a reputation for impact-driven research that contributes to the betterment of the world. This new era of KAUST builds on our many successes, achievements and strong foundations, and our new strategy represents an evolution that brings us closer to the interests of the Kingdom.
CONTACT US
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
4700 King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
Thuwal 23955-6900
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Follow us on Social media: