Biofuels, Chemicals, and Energy Stories
Plant-Based Chemicals of the Future
Petroleum, a common fossil fuel, is used to create over 6,000 different products. However, there are issues related to the extended use of petroleum including environmental pollution and global warming. Dr. El Barbary Hassan, a chemist in the Department of Sustainable Bioproducts, and numerous other scientists are looking for a solution, which begins and ends with one of the principal components of fossil fuel creation…trees and woody plants. Hassan and his team are working on developing an effective and inexpensive catalytic process with magnetic properties. The scientists set out to convert cellulose to hydroxymethylfurfurlal, or HMF.
This organic compound is a carbon-neutral feedstock used in the production of fuels and chemicals. While the research is ongoing, Hassan’s team has developed a catalyst that has been used repeatedly without losing any of the necessary properties needed to turn cellulose into chemicals. The catalyst has also demonstrated high yields in the production of important chemical building blocks.
2019
Water and Oil
Dr. El Barbary Hassan, a professor at Mississippi State, is collaborating with Mohamed El-Sakhawy from Egypt on a study to convert agricultural waste into renewable biofuels and wastewater treatment adsorbents. Funded by the U.S. Egypt Science and Technology Joint Fund, the study uses rice straw—abundant in both the U.S. and Egypt—to create bio-oil and biochar through pyrolysis. The U.S. team is focused on developing renewable biofuels, while the Egyptian team works on creating low-cost adsorbents for wastewater treatment. This project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural waste, while producing valuable products for renewable energy and environmental management.
2023
Green is the New Black
Dr. Jilei Zhang, a scientist at Mississippi State University, is researching the production of lignin-based graphene, a sustainable alternative to traditional graphite. Lignin, a byproduct from paper mills, is typically burned for energy, but Zhang's work explores turning it into bio-graphene oxide, which could have high-value applications. His team has successfully patented methods for producing graphene from lignin, with potential uses in concrete, batteries, and water treatment. Despite challenges in scaling production, Zhang is optimistic about its commercial potential, securing funding to continue research and development, particularly in strengthening concrete and removing heavy metals from water.