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Dr. Pablo García-Triñanes

Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Surrey

Dr. Pablo serves as an associate professor in chemical engineering at the University of Surrey (UK). His academic journey commenced as a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Surrey’s Department of Chemical and Process Engineering from 2012 to 2016. During this period, he made significant contributions to prominent projects such as CSP2 (EU-FP7) and collaborated closely with Unilever Research & Development Plc. Additionally, Pablo led the Particle Technology Knowledge Cluster at Surrey, showcasing his leadership across the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

His commitment to advancing chemical engineering education led him to the Medway Campus of the University of Greenwich from 2017 to 2023, where he introduced the discipline to new horizons. During this time, he engaged in a wide range of research and consultancy projects within the Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology, further solidifying his expertise.

Pablo’s academic journey is characterised by his diversified educational background, including a Bachelor’s in Chemistry, an MEng in Chemical and Environmental Engineering, an MSc in Materials Science and Technology, and a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Santiago de Compostela (Spain). Renowned for his focus on particle technology, he fosters international collaborations with esteemed institutions in USA, Japan, Germany, Italy, and The Netherlands, earning him global recognition. His editorial role at Advanced Powder Technology (Elsevier) underscores his standing in the field.

Beyond his research pursuits, Pablo is a vocal advocate for chemical engineering across various domains. His influence extends to visiting professorship roles in Multiphase Flow and Green Engineering at Universität Twente (NL), Technische Hochschule Nürnberg Georg Simon Ohm, and Westsächsischen Hochschule Zwickau (GER), highlighting his commitment to knowledge exchange and international cooperation. Actively engaged with the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) since 2011, he previously served as the Chair of the London and South East Coast Members Group (2020-2024), exemplifying his dedication to advancing the discipline both academically and professionally.

Pablo was awarded the IChemE Ambassador Prize 2023.

Presentation:

Advancing Catalytic Fast Pyrolysis: Challenges and Opportunities in Optimisation and Viability Dr Pablo García-Triñanes

Scaling up catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) for commercial bio-oil production is vital for transitioning from fossil fuels to biofuels. This high-temperature process converts lignocellulosic biomass into aromatics and olefins, enhancing thermal value and stability. This talk explores challenges and opportunities in scaling up CFP, including diverse feedstocks, pre-treatment, yield, conversion, post-treatment, and economics. Wood residue emerges as an optimal feedstock, and zeolite catalysts are favoured for their structure and acidity. Additionally, particle characterization plays a critical role, as feedstock particle size, morphology, and catalyst particle properties directly affect heat transfer, reaction kinetics, and product quality. Key challenges include energy efficiency, deoxygenation, yield, and cost competitiveness. The study highlights opportunities to optimise CFP, reduce costs, and improve product quality, offering recommendations for future research to address these challenges and bridge the gap between lab, pilot, and commercial scales.

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