Degree
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Engineering Science
Document Type
Dissertation
Abstract
Lignin is the most plentiful natural aromatic polymer and is receiving the attention of the scientific community due to the high demand for new sources of energy in light of increasing fossil fuel prices and its decreasing reserves. In addition, owing to their high phenolic compound content, lignin is perceived as a prime source of aromatic building blocks. Despite the common use of conventional methods of lignin depolymerization, a plethora of research is being executed to come up with new techniques that can aid in proper lignin utilization in various applications. We used three different approaches to understand and add to the knowledge of the transformation of lignin to high-added-value chemicals/biofuels. Firstly, we conducted experiments to understand the depolymerization pathway of lignin pyrolysis and its interaction with a CuO/SiO2 catalyst via a lignin model compound (1,2 dichlorobenzene, DCB). Secondly, we used Doehlert’s design, a multivariate experimental design optimization technique, to find the optimal conditions for hydrolyzed lignin pyrolysis in the gas phase. Finally, we employed the findings from the first and second approach of the research to optimize the use of the CuO/SiO2 catalyst in lignin microwave depolymerization where we performed basic proof of concept experiments. In addition, we used COMSOL Multiphysics to model the increase in temperature profile during the process. The real values from microwave experiments were used to validate the simulated results.
Date
1-24-2025
Recommended Citation
Rezk, Marwan Yasser Ahmed, "NANO-CATALYST ASSISTED LIGNIN DEPLOYMERIZATION VIA CONTINOUS ATOMIZATION AND MICROWAVE IRRADIATION" (2025). LSU Doctoral Dissertations. 6676.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_dissertations/6676
Committee Chair
Boldor, Dorin
Included in
Bioresource and Agricultural Engineering Commons, Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Commons, Other Engineering Science and Materials Commons, Other Materials Science and Engineering Commons
