The Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Indonesia (FTUI) through the Research Center for Biomass Valorization (RCBV) held an international seminar entitled “Synthesis of Furfural from Biomass” on Monday (04/11). This seminar presented Prof. Patrick Cognet from the Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse, France, as the main speaker. This activity aims to broaden the insight and knowledge of the academic community and researchers in Indonesia about the use of biomass for the production of renewable chemicals.
Furfural, as one of the products produced from biomass materials, has attracted the attention of the chemical industry due to its wide range of applications, ranging from the manufacture of resins, solvents, to environmentally friendly alternative fuels. Furfural also plays an important role in the biochemical industry as a basic ingredient in various chemical production processes.
In this seminar, Prof. Cognet explained a more efficient and sustainable method of furfural synthesis from biomass. He will also provide insights on the latest innovations in the field of biomass conversion and the benefits resulting from this approach, especially in the global effort to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
“Furfural is key in the green chemical industry. Through the use of biomass, we can create more sustainable chemical products and support the circular economy,” said Prof. Cognet.
The Dean of FTUI, Prof. Dr. Ir. Heri Hermansyah, S.T., M.Eng., IPU., in his speech also said that this seminar is very important as part of FTUI’s efforts to support sustainable research and technology development. “This seminar provides an opportunity for us to dig deeper into biomass conversion and the development of environmentally friendly chemical products, in line with our commitment to support innovations that can have a positive impact on the environment and society,” said Prof. Heri.
Prof. Cognet is an expert in chemical engineering and biotechnology with extensive research experience in biomass conversion and biorefinery. He is currently a Professor at the Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse (INPT), France, which is one of the world’s leading institutions in the field of chemical engineering and biotechnology. Prof. Cognet also has various publications and research projects that focus on developing environmentally friendly technologies for the conversion of biomass into value-added products.
This seminar is expected to open up more collaboration opportunities between academics, researchers, and industry to develop more efficient biomass-based technology. In the future, FTUI is committed to continuing to be a center for research and development of technology that supports sustainability solutions in the energy and materials sectors.
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Public Communication Office
Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Indonesia
