Waste Refining with Neutron-induced Radiolysis

The aim of this research is to determine if valuable platform chemicals or pharmaceutical "building blocks" may be produced using neutron radiation of complex biomass molecules. The main academic novelty of this project will pioneer the feasibility of incorporating a direct source of nuclear energy (neutrons) into a bio-refinery concept. If successful, this could reduce the need for the conversion of energy to electricity and heat that is conventionally used for organic decomposition, therefore providing an energy efficient, economical alternative for chemical and fuel production.