NCERC's research and business development team were active at the 2021 Alternative Fuels & Chemicals Coalition Conference, that took place November 14 - 16 at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Washington, DC. Director of Research Dr. Yan Zhang presented twice at the conference during the various breakout sessions and showcased two important areas of research in the bioeconomy.
Her first presentation, titled "Low Cost Conversion of Hemp Biomass to Ethanol", and focused on an ongoing project taking place at NCERC and converts various biomass feedstocks into useful chemicals, such as ethanol, through pretreatment, hydrolysis and fermentation.
Her second presentation, titled "Biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoate production from plasma oxidized non-degradable polypropylene" featured research led by NCERC Director of Fermentation Dr. Jie Dong, and showcased the results of a research project that successfully used a non-degradable plastic waste (PP) as feedstock to produce biodegradable PHA, and fulfilled the degradation and recycling of plastic waste.
In addition to Dr. Yan's presentations, NCERC Graduate Assistant Muhammad Shehu presented his research that focuses on the production an intermediate chemical for Sustainable Aviation Fuel, isoprenol.
