Single-step Aerosol Technique for Lignin Valorization: from Fundamentals to Scale-up by Mr Sujit Modi | Department of Energy Science and Engineering

Location and Date:

Feb 21, 2024 (Wednesday), 4.00 PM, DESE seminar Room, 2nd Floor

Abstract: The demand for sustainable carbon precursors is growing due to greenhouse gas emissions associated with the current dependence on fossil resources. Lignocellulose can potentially displace fossil resources given its renewable origin, abundance, and geographical distribution. However, a key to the economic viability and sustainability of lignocellulosic biorefineries is the valorization of lignin streams generated as waste byproducts. To address this gap, my research focuses on developing a scalable (simple, flow-through, and rapid) and sustainable aerosol-based technique to valorize lignin into high-value carbon nanomaterials. In this talk, I will discuss the development of the aerosol technique by employing a comprehensive approach, encompassing process modeling, experimental design, and advanced characterizations. I will especially emphasize aerosol reaction engineering models to elucidate the formation of carbon nanoparticles with controlled properties (size, shape, and chemical structure) in the aerosol reactor. I will then discuss the impact of these nanomaterial properties in different applications including energy storage and CO₂ capture. Finally, I will share the ongoing work on assessing the sustainability of the developed aerosol technique for lignin valorization using the lifecycle analysis.

Sujit Modi

Sujit is a Ph.D. student working under the guidance of Prof. Pratim Biswas at Washinton University in St. Louis, now completing his research work at the University of Miami. Sujit is also an alumnus of the IIT Bombay Chemical Engineering Department (2016-18) and an awardee of the Institute Silver Medal. Sujit’s Ph.D. research is supported by fellowship awards from the McDonnell Academy and Dean’s International Students Academy at Washington University in St. Louis. His Ph.D. research focuses on advancing the valorization of lignin by creating products of value using single-step aerosol methods. His impactful contributions to this research have resulted in coveted journal publications including ACS Nano and Chemical Engineering Journal. Sujit’s research contributions specifically to carbon nanomaterials were recently recognized with a prestigious Graduate Student Research Award at the 2023 American Institute of Chemical Engineers meeting. He has also served as an invited speaker and group discussion leader at the Gordon Research Seminar on Nanotechnology. Beyond academia, Sujit enjoys playing chess, reading books, and actively engaging in social service and public scholarship.