From Fossil Feedstocks to Renewable Carbon: Rethinking the Petrochemical Value Chain by Prof. Kevin M. Van Geem
Professor, Kevin M. Van Geem, Ghent University，Kevin M. Van Geem is a full professor at the Laboratory for Chemical Technology at Ghent University, where he leads pioneering research in thermochemical reaction engineering. His work focuses especially on the transition from fossil-based to renewable feedstocks--a challenae he tackles with both scientific depth and industrial relevance. A former Fulbright Research Scholar at MIT. Professor Van Geem directs Ghent University's state-of-the-art pilot plants for steam cracking and chemical recycling. He has authored over 400 scientific publications and launched his own spin-off company, further bridging the gap between academia and industry. His expertise spans chemical recycling, olefin production, detailed kinetic modeling, scale-up, and anti-fouling technologies. He is also a specialist in advanced analytical techniques, including online and offline characterization of complex petrochemical and biochemical mixtures using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography.
Date & Time: Monday, December 1, 2025, 10:30 - 11:30 AM
Venue: Yifu Building Lecture Hall
Language: English
The petrochemical industry faces a transformative challenge: transitioning from a linear. fossil-fuel-dependent model to a sustainable, circular economy. This presentation, Ied by Professor Kevin M. Van Geem of Ghent University (UGent), explores the critical strategies and technological innovations required to achieve deep decarbonization and resource efficiency in this essential sector. It delves into cutting-edge sustainable practices, including the role of chemical recycling for waste plastics, the development of electrified processes to replace high-temperature, fossil-fired heating, and the integration of novel waste-derived feedstocks. Professor Van Geem will present recent research from the Laboratory for Chemical Technology (LCT) at UGent, demonstrating fundamental breakthroughs in reaction engineering and process intensification. The abstract posits that a true circular economy demands more than just incremental changes; it requires systemic integration, advanced development, and robust techno-economic assessments to guide the transition toward net-zero petrochemical production.