Thesis supervisor: Kata Nóra Enyedi
Location of studies (in Hungarian): ELTE Institute of Chemistry, Department of Organic Chemistry Abbreviation of location of studies: ELTE
Description of the research topic:
The goal of our project is to produce a new, eco-friendly biofuel, the optimization of its synthesis, and the analysis of the relevant environmental and mechanical engineering aspects. The perhydro-furyl furoate target-compound can be synthesized from furfural—obtained through the hydrolysis of hemicellulose, a bulk by-product of agriculture—in a "green technology" process, typically in 2-3 reaction steps. Given that agriculture heavily utilizes fossil fuels, plant-derived fuels are far from being carbon-neutral. However, the planned compound substantially improves this situation as it is derived from waste material and a significant portion of its energy content is incorporated through hydrogen (e.g., derived from solar energy) reduction.
This approach s inherently interdisciplinary, encompassing synthetic chemistry, analytical- and environmental science, industrial technology, mechanical engineering, and transportation studies, necessitating a combined investigation approach.
An intriguing aspect of the project is that, although the target compound is structurally simple, it has not been described previously, and there is minimal precedent regarding its synthethic pathway. Nonetheless, the principles applied are basic level organic chemistry, comprehensible, relevant, and particularly exciting given the current green energy situation. On this basis, the topic is exceptionally suitable for developing exploratory and problem-based educational materials (ranging from elementary school to BSc level). The development of educational and science popularization modules is also a component of the planned project.
Required language skills: English Further requirements: MSc in Chemistry
Preparative organic chemistry, analytical chemistry
Number of students who can be accepted: 1
Deadline for application: 2024-05-31
2024. IV. 17. ODT ülés Az ODT következő ülésére 2024. június 14-én, pénteken 10.00 órakor kerül sor a Semmelweis Egyetem Szenátusi termében (Bp. Üllői út 26. I. emelet).
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