Nisansala Mesthrige: Carbon-negative cellulose products from pulp mills

Selective Oxidation of Biogenic and Power-to-X derived Fischer-Tropsch Wax into Long-Chain Fatty Acids

This doctoral research focuses on the chemical valorization of biogenic and power-to-X derived Fischer-Tropsch (FT) wax into long-chain fatty acids (LCFA) through a controlled oxidation process. The primary objective is to develop and optimize oxidation conditions that enhance selectivity toward high LCFA yields. Special attention is given to evaluating process conditions, reaction pathways, and intrinsic reaction kinetics governing product distribution. 

In addition to oxidation, the project investigates efficient separation strategies for recovering fatty acids from the oxidized wax matrix. The resulting fatty acids serve as renewable intermediates for downstream applications. In particular, these products are utilized in a parallel CIMANET doctoral project focused on cellulose modification under the main project titled ‘‘Carbon-negative cellulose products from pulp mills.’

Overall, this research aims to establish a laboratory-scale proof of concept for the FT wax oxidation process as a sustainable route for fatty acid production. By expanding the value of FT carbon beyond conventional fuel applications, this work supports the development of carbon-negative cellulose-based materials.