Research Serge Tavernier

Abstract

Based on the recently developed "physico chemical separation methods", a process will be developed that allows to reduce the level of oxygenates and nitrogenates in pyrolysis oil and increasing it valorization potential. The process can be a substitute for hydrotreatment.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Billen Pieter
• Promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Billen Pieter
• Co-promoter: Perreault Patrice

Research team(s)

• Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

During the thermochemical pretreatment biotechnological production of chemicals from the polysaccharides in lignocellulose, a solid fraction is obtained, consisting mainly of cellulose, and a lignin waste stream, the so-called, xylose rich fraction (XRF). XRF contains some residual sugar, toxic lignin-derived phenolic and sugar-derived furans. The goal of the research project is to investigate a technique to obtain almost complete removal of the lignin waste stream by using lipid producing bacteria, i.e., Rhodococcus sp. Rhodococcus is known to be able to metabolise phenol compounds. However to succeed, some hurdles have to be taken. (i) The furans and some phenolics can be toxic to the microorganism, (ii) repolymerisation of the lignin can occur (iii) the lignin is probably not completely converted, (iv) oligomers of lignin and lignin cellulose complexes can still be present, (v) it is not known if the Rhodococcus can degrade these oligomers. By analysis of the sugars, furans, phenolics, and the nature of the oligomers or particles, insight can be gained. Based on this knowledge, a toolbox of techniques to solve this will be applied, i.e. adaptation of the microorganism, commercial cellulases and laccases, alfa-naphtol to prevent repolymerisation of the lignin, using other bacteria, ….

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Cornet Iris
• Co-promoter: Tavernier Serge

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The P2PC project aspires to cope with the urgent issue of plastics waste management. The project targets the challenge of increasing plastic waste volumes and diversity on the one hand, as well as the establishment of circular material schemes instead of value destruction. The most important premise of P2PC is that by pyrolysis, plastic waste that is currently being burned or landfilled can be a source of diverse chemical building blocks, the so-called "precious chemicals". Its target, in other words, is to turn plastic waste into value. This way, P2PC can be considered as the next step in Flanders' efforts to lead the global effort in tackling the challenge of waste plastics.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Billen Pieter
• Promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Billen Pieter
• Co-promoter: Van Passel Steven

Research team(s)

• Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)
• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Pretreatment is a critical step in the conversion of lignocellulose into biofuels and biochemicals. During pretreatment, the recalcitrance of lignocellulose is reduced, making the carbohydrates more accessible for enzymatic saccharification. Fungal delignification by white rot fungi is an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical and physicochemical methods and is carried out in solid-state fermentation with mild reaction conditions and without the formation of microbial inhibitors. However, disadvantages of this technology include long pretreatment time, non-selective and low delignification, low enzymatic hydrolysis and required sterilisation of the raw material. This study investigates the possibility of improving and characterising the solid-state fungal pretreatment of poplar wood by Phanerochaete chrysosporium. The effects of MnSO4 and CuSO4 supplements on the delignification of sterilised wood are investigated using response surface methodology. Solid-state fermentations are carried out for 4 weeks in sterile ventilated bottles. The mechanism of the coordinated action of metal ions on lignin degradation is elucidated by relating fungal growth and ligninolytic enzyme activity to lignocellulose degradation as a function of pretreatment time. The optimised system with metal supplements is then applied to the pre-treatment of non-sterilised wood using different inoculation, nutrient and culture techniques. The fermentations are then analysed with infrared spectroscopy, in particular NIR and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, to develop rapid quantification methods for lignin. Finally, the feasibility of producing fermentable sugars from sterilised and non-sterilised poplar wood using fungal pretreatment is evaluated through techno-economic analysis. Pretreatment of the wood with 2.01 µmol CuSO4 and 0.77 µmol MnSO4 g-1 wood resulted in a 1.9-fold higher lignin degradation, a 2.3-fold higher selectivity value for delignification and a 2.9-fold higher glucose yield. This can be explained by the joint action of Mn2+ and Cu2+ ions, with Mn2+ ions stimulating manganese peroxidase production and Cu2+ prolonging it. Fungal pretreatment under non-sterile conditions using dishes without sterile aeration. resulted in a similarly high glucose yield (28.51 ± 0.28%) as the traditional method using sterilised wood, sterile aeration and spores as inoculum, while reducing the amount of wood to be sterilised by 71.2%. Infrared spectroscopy-based methods with high coefficients of determination (R_CV^2 ≥ 0.87) were developed for rapid and reliable prediction of lignin in mouldy pre-treated wood. The techno-economic study showed that using non-sterilised wood as substrate and pre-colonised wood as inoculum resulted in a 14.5% (€2.15/kg) reduction in sugar production costs compared to using sterilised wood. This cost reduction can be attributed to the lower running costs due to the reduced need for sterilisation. Although promising cost reductions were demonstrated, mould pretreatment remained more expensive than conventional chemical and physicochemical methods due to high capital costs caused by factors such as long pretreatment time and low sugar yields. To overcome these challenges, it is crucial to prioritise further research focusing on screening and developing fungal strains with fast growth rates, high optimal growth temperature and selective lignin degradation capacities, as well as process optimisation and scale-up.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Vlaeminck Siegfried
• Co-promoter: Cornet Iris
• Co-promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Fellow: Wittner Nikolett

Research team(s)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The ImPrOVE (Innovative (pre)POmace Valorization procEss) project addresses a major European wide agro-related problem: pomace resulting from pressing fruit. This high amount of pomace is considered waste, but contains natural and highly functional compounds. Skin and core of fruit contain protecting and functional molecules: antioxidants, stabilizers, colorants, aromas, fibers with potential in high value applications in cosmetics, diets and, as bio-additives in food and beverages. ImPrOVE aims to fully valorize pomace by using a combination of existing and innovative processes. These should be easy without high energy/cost demands, resulting in access for S(M)E's (economic strategic European targets) with profit redistributed over the whole chain, strengthening Europe's agro and food activities. ImPrOVE will design a generic process flow applicable to most pomace types. Two cases will be studied: Southern European olive pomace and Mid/Northern European apple/pear/cherry/cucumber pomace. Total valorization is achieved in three process clusters: (1) pretreatment of the pomace giving raise to aromas and oil from separated seeds; (2) extraction of high value materials from the pretreated pomace and (3) valorization of the resulting fibrous mass, either directly (functionally designed fibers) or by splitting cellulose-lignin and valorizing both materials physically, enzymatically and/or chemically. An ambitious concept is to use bio-based ionic liquids (BIOILs) or natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) as extraction liquids advanced green solvents. More ambitious, highly appealing, is to study whether the extraction solution itself can be utilized instead of the isolated and purified ingredients, avoiding some downstream processing. Dermatological and metabolomic tests, (eco)toxicity, biodegradation, LCA, industrial relevance, scalability and economic viability will be sustainably addressed by the European multidisciplinary partner cluster, with academic and industrial members.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Billen Pieter
• Promoter: Tavernier Serge

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)
• Intelligence in PRocesses, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents (iPRACS)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The proposed research aims at developing (new) affordable, valuable long chain α,ω bifunctional monomers for condensation reactions, sustainably produced, and provide demonstration samples, in view of filing a patent application with parallel industrial valorization. The envisioned monomers will yield new materials, polymers in particular, with unprecedented physicochemical, thermal and mechanical properties compared to existing short (max. C10 chains) α,ω bifunctional condensation monomers. Moreover, the newly developed materials are expected to be biodegradable, and offer opportunities for chemical recycling. To date, monomers comparable to our envisioned monomers can only be produced at low carbon efficiencies and high economic and environmental cost. In contrast, we propose a new synthesis route, complying to green chemistry principles, yielding long (C18+) α,ω bifunctional monomers, as well as their asymmetric versions, and a synthesis route for chain length extension and even doubling. The latter two processes were thus far (industrially) neither known nor feasible. Monomers with such long or doubled chain length were unprecedented to date. The feasibility of our proposed synthesis route has already been demonstrated by preliminary experiments. The performance of such new C18 polyester structures will be benchmarked against that of traditional (short chain) alternatives. A second phase focuses on longer (C18+) chains. In the latter case an ether molecule from two fatty chains, terminated on both sides, will be obtained. The total length of the chain between two functional groups is intended to be long, meaning at least 18 atoms. We hypothesize that the presence of the ether-oxygen internally does not fundamentally alter the chain structure, resulting in similar properties as an equivalent homogeneous carbon chain. The properties of the associated newly obtained oligomers and polymers will be assessed, and the data obtained will serve as examples for a patent application. In a third phase the production process will be optimized (e.g. with respect to cost structure) for a selection of monomers, i.e. those with the highest industrial demand. These monomers will be produced and supplied in larger quantities as demonstration samples, in light of prompting industrial valorization. First cost estimates will be made.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Billen Pieter

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Very-long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) are fatty acids with a chain length of more than 20 carbons. They represent a valuable class of chemicals which can be used in several industries. Nowadays, these are produced from vegetable oils and petrochemical feedstock. In order to make the VLCFA production more sustainable, microbial VLCFA synthesis by Rhodococcus species seems to be a perfect tool. Unfortunately, current knowledge on VLCFA production with Rhodococcus is limited. Therefore, this project proposes to fill this gap. For investigation of the triggering effects to achieve high VLCFA production different agro-industrial substrates will be used as raw material. The triggering effect of the compounds on gene expression of the VLCFA pathway will be evaluated by RT-qPCR. The desired triggers should increase the VLCFA titer. Different Rhodococcus strains will be examined and evaluated for VLCFA synthesis. VLCFA production will be further optimized by screening of several medium compositions, optimization of environmental factors and, finally, the feeding pattern. Establishment of high VLCFA productivities can lead to a new production process of valuable building blocks for chemical industry.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Cornet Iris
• Co-promoter: Wijnants Marc
• Fellow: Van Herck Jolien

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

A functional prototype of an algae harvester will be built and tested in real life conditions. The first target is to optimize the actual concept (dimensions, layout, choice of materials and physical parameters). The second target is to study in detail the operational window and the global costs (hardware and operational cost) and compare them with actual algae harvesters.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Tavernier Serge

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research contract awarded by the University of Antwerp. The supervisor provides the Antwerp University research mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions stipulated by the university.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Maes Bert
• Co-promoter: Abbaspour Tehrani Kourosch
• Co-promoter: Bogaerts Annemie
• Co-promoter: Cool Pegie
• Co-promoter: Herrebout Wouter
• Co-promoter: Johannessen Christian
• Co-promoter: Meynen Vera
• Co-promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Vande Velde Christophe
• Fellow: Sergueev Serguei

Research team(s)

• Organic synthesis (ORSY)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the Hercules Foundation. UA provides the Hercules Foundation research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Maes Bert
• Co-promoter: Abbaspour Tehrani Kourosch
• Co-promoter: Augustyns Koen
• Co-promoter: Herrebout Wouter
• Co-promoter: Pieters Luc
• Co-promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Van Der Veken Pieter

Research team(s)

• Organic synthesis (ORSY)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research agreement between the UA and on the onther hand IWT. UA provides IWT research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Tavernier Serge

Research team(s)

• Biochemical Wastewater Valorization & Engineering (BioWaVE)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Study of the use of core-shell and particle size distribution designed dielectric ceramic particles as packed bed material in the intensification of plasma based chemical processes. Experience in the field of industrial plasma generation will be combined with the modelling expertise of PLASMANT, in order to check on the valorisation potential of plasma induced chemistry. A dedicated experimental/empirical dataset will be set up and a related CIT process analysis. Valorisation is situated in emission control and synthesis of alternative raw material starting from waste streams.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Bogaerts Annemie
• Co-promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Verhulst Kristof

Research team(s)

• Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine - Antwerp (PLASMANT)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project we wish to obtain a better insight in the destruction of volatile organic compounds (VOC's) in (catalytic packed bed) plasma reactors. By means of computer simulations and experimental validation, we will try to understand and optimize the different steps in the entire project with respect to the influence of the general reactor design, as well as a packing and a catalyst.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Bogaerts Annemie
• Co-promoter: Tavernier Serge

Research team(s)

• Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine - Antwerp (PLASMANT)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project has two general objectives: (1) Increase the research potential of the UA by introduction of new state of the art techniques for the analysis of fragile molecular structures by using the novel ion mobility capabilities that have recently been integrated with high-mass high-resolution Q-TOF mass spetrometry ("Synapt", waters). (2) Maintain the current capacity to obtain Q-TOF data by replacing an existing system.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sobott Frank
• Co-promoter: Guisez Yves
• Co-promoter: Lemière Filip
• Co-promoter: Maes Bert
• Co-promoter: Moens Luc
• Co-promoter: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Van Ostade Xaveer
• Co-promoter: Van Schil Paul
• Co-promoter: Wijnants Marc
• Co-promoter: Witters Erwin

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

First, the microwave-assisted synthesis (with or without heterogeneous catalyst) of renewable chemicals starting from plant oil and animal fat (triglycerides) or derivatives of triglycerides (free fatty acids) will be studied. Secondly, the design and the construction of a continuous microwave reactor will take place.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Maes Bert
• Co-principal investigator: Tavernier Serge

Research team(s)

• Organic synthesis (ORSY)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research contract awarded by the University of Antwerp. The supervisor provides the Antwerp University research mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions stipulated by the university.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Maes Bert
• Co-principal investigator: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Herrebout Wouter
• Co-promoter: Van Der Veken Benjamin
• Fellow: Sergueev Serguei

Research team(s)

• Organic synthesis (ORSY)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Study of the microwave assisted synthesis of renewable raw materials from triglycerides with specific attention for new catalysts and catalyst-free processes. These processes reduce the amount of waste products and they could also be the start of the development of compact industrial production processes (flow-through microwave reactors).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Maes Bert
• Co-principal investigator: Tavernier Serge
• Co-promoter: Dommisse Roger

Research team(s)

• Organic synthesis (ORSY)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

As binding media in of artist paints, usually mixtures of natural products such as different proteins, vegetable oils, sugars and/or resins have been employed in the last 500 years. The project aims to develop procedures for the type-identification and quantitative analysis of the binding media employed in oil paintings by means of a combination of spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques, while causing minimal damage to the paintings involved.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Janssens Koen
• Co-principal investigator: Tavernier Serge

Research team(s)

Project type(s)

• Research Project