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Biomass materials (e.g., corn and soybean stalks, natural grasses, wood waste) are being targeted as an alternative feedstock for conversion into biofuels. Additionally, biomass materials have the potential to become the feedstock for conversion into broad chemical platforms or intermediates which can be further refined into higher value chemicals for use in fuels, plastics, paints, coatings, solvents, etc.
The Center for Environmentally Beneficial Catalysis at KU began a project in 2006 with an agribusiness company on conducting initial research into different catalytic pathways involving the use of biomass as feedstock for conversion into chemical platforms. The Center employs a multi-scale approach called "concurrent catalyst, solvent, and reactor engineering," implemented by a multidisciplinary team of faculty and post-docs. The project focus is on developing an integrated, economically viable system for the desired biomass conversion that optimizes catalyst, media, and reactor design.
The research has generated positive results in 2007 and a second project has been approved for 2007. The research may help the company become a leader in the emerging industry of bio-refining.
To explore possible collaboration with KU, please contact:
Carey Novak
Director | Business Relations and Development
KU Center for Research, Inc.
The University of Kansas
2385 Irving Hill Rd.
Lawrence, KS 66045-7563
785-864-9004 | cnovak@ku.edu
1-877-865-9932
785-864-5272 fax
