The Bioenergy Research Group applies chemical engineering science and technology to help provide the world with sufficient energy, fuels and chemicals from sustainable resources. BERG is developing novel thermal processes in which agricultural wastes, fast-growing wood, annual crops and biogenic wastes are thermally converted in a biorefinery, using fast and intermediate pyrolysis, into oils and gases for use in electricity generation and the production of transportation fuels and chemicals.

This group has extensive experience in the design and development of biomaterials and the interdisciplinary science that underpin this work. The core expertise of the group lies in the application of a fundamental molecular understanding to rapidly developing areas such as biomimetic systems, assay development and high-throughput screening, combinatorial chemistry and biology, de novo molecular design, biological chemistry and biomaterials.

EBRI research focuses on thermochemical conversion techniques (pyrolysis, gasification, and combustion) of biomass feedstock, the optimization of reactions through observing kinetic parameters, and hot gas filtration. Other areas of interest include the use of algae as feedstock, cogeneration facilities, hydrogen production from synthesis gas, and the use of biochar on agricultural land to sequester carbon.

This group investigates the chemistry of polymers, antioxidants and other specialty additives at a molecular level. Our objectives range from developing innovative new processes and novel materials in direct response to the needs of business, industry and society, through to targeted applications and exploitations with industrial partners.