Description
The PhD project is proposed in the context of the transformation of sugars into fine chemicals, more specifically fructose into platform molecules for the chemical industry. The goal of the project is to understand and rationalize the reaction mechanisms of sugars by combined experimental and theoretical approaches. In particular, the selectivity of the transformations will be addressed, especially the pathways leading to oligomers and humins, mainly responsible of the efficiency losses in the transformation of sugars. The project will combine analysis (LC-UC-RI, GC-FID, LC-HRMS…), experimental kinetics and kinetic modeling, and will focus on reaction intermediates and side-reaction research. This will also imply a thorough analytical work on the comprehension of the chemical composition of the fluids. The results should allow for a better understanding of the chemical reactivity involved and pave the way toward operating conditions optimization of conversion processes.
Through this project the candidate should thus be trained in a variety of techniques and approaches for the fundamental and applied research in the field of reaction engineering, kinetic modeling, catalysis, analysis and biomass transformation processes.
Keywords: sugars, reaction kinetics, kinetic modelling, humins
About IFP Energies Nouvelles
FP Energies nouvelles is a French public-sector research, innovation and training center. Its mission is to develop efficient, economical, clean and sustainable technologies in the fields of energy, transport and the environment. For more information, see our WEB site.
IFPEN offers a stimulating research environment, with access to first in class laboratory infrastructures and computing facilities. IFPEN offers competitive salary and benefits packages. All PhD students have access to dedicated seminars and training sessions. For more information, please see our dedicated WEB pages.
