Zoom:
https://sfu.zoom.us/j/88508501108 (Meeting ID: 885 0850 1108)
Abstract:
A global transition toward sustainable materials is accelerating in response to environmental concerns associated with fossil fuel-based plastics, including greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, and persistent pollution. Annual polymer production of over 450 million tons accounts for more than $1.1 trillion in value and 5% of global merchandise trade.
A promising alternative is emerging from forest-based value chains. By integrating advanced fractionation and conversion technologies, lignocellulosic biomass can be transformed into bio-based polymers capable of substituting conventional petroleum-based polymers. In an agricultural country like Banladesh, crop residues can serve as raw materials. This study presents a potassium hydroxide (KOH)-based biorefinery approach for non-wood biomass. This integrated KOH-based biorefinery aligns with the principles of a circular bioeconomy by converting agricultural residues into multiple value-added products while minimizing the use of fossil-fuel-based polymer.
About the Speaker:
Dr. Md. Sarwar Jahan is a distinguished scientist with over three decades of experience in pulp and paper science, lignocellulosic biomass utilization, and integrated biorefinery systems. He earned his Ph.D. in Applied Chemistry (University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh) and has conducted postdoctoral research at Nanjing Forestry University (China) and Chonbuk National University (South Korea).
Internationally recognized for his pioneering work on non-wood fibers—including jute, bamboo, and agricultural residues—Dr. Jahan has authored over 225 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals. He is an elected Fellow of the International Academy of Wood Science (Canada) and a recipient of the TWAS Prize for Innovation in Science and Technology (Italy).