Sampath Gunukula

  • B.S. JNTU University, India, 2009
  • Ph.D. University of Wisconsin, Madison, 2016

Research Interests

  • Thermochemical Conversion
  • Deep Eutectic Solvents
  • Lignin Composites
  • Flow Behavior of Biomass Feedstocks
  • Sustainability Analysis (LCA/TEA)

Current Research

My research is focused on finding innovative solutions to the environmental challenges through establishing fundamental correlations between the thermodynamic properties of deep eutectic solvents and its potential to solubilize lignin biopolymers and organic acids; developing fundamental correlations between lignin biopolymer structure and mechanical and viscoelastic properties of lignin derived composites such as polylactic acid-lignin bioplastic;, and mechanistic understanding of de-polymerization of plastic and non-plastic waste under supercritical water conditions.  My research uses life cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis to assess the environmental and economic impact of our materials and processes, enabling us to make informed decisions that promote the sustainable development of advanced materials and process.

 

  • Thermochemical Conversion

Continuous hydrothermal liquefaction is used to understand the depolymerization mechanisms of biopolymers (e.g., cellulose and lignin) and plastic waste (e.g., polyethylene and polypropylene) under subcritical and supercritical water conditions.

  • Deep Eutectic Solvents

We synthesize new ternary deep eutectic solvents to enhance the extraction of biomass derived products (e.g, organic acids) from dilute aqueous streams.

  • Lignin Composites

The high chemical heterogeneity of lignin limits its use in thermoplastic composites. To enhance lignin’s applicability, we develop solvent fractionation and thermal carbonization processes to reduce chemical heterogeneity of lignin.

  • Flow Behavior of Biomass Feedstocks

We examine the impact of the chemical and physical attributes of biomass feedstocks on the feedability of biomass slurries to high-temperature, high-pressure reactors using various pumps. This study aims to address challenges in feedstock handling at both pilot and industrial scales.

  • Sustainability Analysis

We use the life cycle assessment and the techno-economic analysis methods to assess the environmental sustainability and economic viability of early-stage fuel, chemical, material production technologies.