Dr. Elias Feghali, Associate Professor at Notre Dame University-Louaize’s (NDU) Faculty of Engineering, received funding for his research and spent two months at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado. This extended research stay abroad was funded by The Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO) Grant. During his stay, Dr. Feghali collaborated with Dr. Gregg Beckham, Group Leader at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), on the development of new methodologies for lignin valorization.
Although lignin represents the most abundant renewable source of aromatics, its potential as a bio-based source of aromatics has been underexplored, primarily due to its current utilization mainly as a heat source. This underutilization stems from the heterogeneity and complexity of the material. While valorization methodologies have been proposed, these strategies often employ harsh conditions, such as strong acids/bases and high temperatures. Dr. Feghali has been dedicated to developing mild methodologies for over a decade to extract and valorize lignin. This biomolecule is highly attractive, particularly since it has the potential to replace petroleum-based polyols and, more specifically, carcinogenic bisphenol A in the polymer industry.
This work also involves collaboration with The Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), which has developed world-class expertise in reductive technologies for converting lignin into bio-based aromatics in a unique pilot-scale facility. This multinational collaboration aims to develop renewable materials comprising both bio-based and/or recycled content.
This initiative addresses the urgent and growing need for alternative resources, particularly renewable carbon and its chemical building blocks, which are critically important for both consumers and policymakers. Dr. Feghali’s achievements represent a significant milestone in the field, offering the possibility of introducing and utilizing innovative research methodologies to tackle pressing sustainability challenges.