Thomas J. Schwartz

Prof. Thomas J. Schwartz
Prof. Thomas J. Schwartz
 Associate Professor
Associate Director, Forest Bioproducts Research Institute
Graduate Program Coordinator

  • B.S. Chemical Engineering, University of Maine, 2010
  • B.S. Biological Engineering, University of Maine, 2010
  • Ph.D. Chemical Engineering, University of Wisconsin – Madison, 2015
  • Professional Engineer (PE), Maine

Phone: 207.581.2294
Fax: 207.581.2323
Email: thomas.schwartz@maine.edu
Links:
Research Group Website
Google Scholar Profile
Schedule an Advising Appointment

Research Interests

Heterogeneous Catalysis • Reaction Kinetics • in situ and operando Spectroscopy • Biomass Conversion • Biorenewable Chemicals

Current Research

Our group strives to develop a molecular-level understanding of processes that occur on catalytic surfaces used for the conversion of carbon-based feedstocks (i.e., biomass, petroleum, and natural gas) to chemicals and fuels. We combine data from spectroscopic (both in situ and operando) and reaction kinetics studies to elucidate the fundamental surface chemistry associated with chemical transformations. This knowledge is subsequently used to guide the rational design of novel catalytic materials. Our research is currently applied to the production of biorenewable chemicals by upgrading platform molecules obtained from either biocatalytic transformations of sugars or biomass pyrolysis.

 

Selected Publications

Publications of Prof. Thomas J. Schwartz (PDF)