Bioenergy expert gets Belgian research award · 21. October 2010
A Danish research project to improve biorefineries’ efficiency in the conversion of agricultural crops to fuel is now being recognized with a Belgian research award. Jens Bo Holm-Nielsen, Associate Professor, and Head of Aalborg University's Center for Bioenergy in Esbjerg is the recipient of the award.
Jens Bo Holm-Nielsen is receiving the Massart Award 2010 of the Belgian Chemometrics Society. The ceremony takes place Thursday in connection with the scientific organization's symposium in Antwerp and an international conference on Chemometrics and Analytical Chemistry where Jens Bo Holm-Nielsen is among the keynote speakers.
"Chemometrics" is a relatively new discipline in which chemistry researchers use advanced data processing methods in their quest for knowledge in laboratories. Jens Bo Holm-Nielsen himself has made extensive use of this in connection with his Ph.D. dissertation in which he documents great potential in integrating advanced analytical technologies in tomorrow's biorefineries.
The analytical tools improve the monitoring of the process, and thus it is also possible to make more accurate forecasts about the level of energy production so that it can be adapted according to need. Online analyses can include helping to ensure a constant level of specific fatty acids that are necessary for stable biogas production.
For Jens Bo Holm-Nielsen a development in this direction is crucial if biomass is to play its desired role in the more sustainable energy supply of the future.
- In 2050, energy from biomass can perhaps satisfy 30 percent or more of the world’s total energy requirement, but it demands optimal utilization. The advanced analytical technologies can help to bring us closer to the target if they are integrated into tomorrow's biorefinery concepts, explains Jens Bo Holm-Nielsen.
The D.L. Massart Award was instituted in 2006 to commemorate the renowned Belgian professor of the same name, who until his death in 2005 was himself a pioneer in the Chemometric field. It is the third time the award of 2,500 Euros has been given, and as before, it is done on the basis of a jury assessment of Ph.D. dissertations from around the world.
Further information:
• Jens Bo Holm-Nielsen, Associate Professor, Department of Energy Technology and Head of the Center for Bioenergy, Aalborg University Esbjerg, mobile +45 2166 2511
