Dr. Emiel Hensen

Biography

Emiel Hensen focuses on fundamental aspects of catalyzed reactions relevant to clean and sustainable processes for the production of fuels and chemicals. His aim is to identify active sites and understand reaction mechanisms. His approach combines advanced operando characterization methods—such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and vibrational spectroscopy—applied to well-defined catalyst model systems, alongside theoretical modeling (density functional theory, microkinetics) and performance testing (kinetics, high-throughput methods, transient techniques). He guides the design and synthesis of nanoscopically organized and well-defined chemically functionalized catalytic solid materials. Hensen's research also includes the exploration of highly structured porous materials containing reactive centers such as protons and metal ions. His work aims to improve current industrial chemical processes and develop novel processes based on renewable feedstock like biomass. His contributions include pioneering areas such as Lewis-acid catalyzed conversion of sugars, catalytic upgrading of lignin, and synthesis of hierarchical zeolites. Hensen has been recognized internationally for his innovative scientific contributions, establishing new catalytic technologies to support the clean energy transition.

Research Interests

Experience