David C. Tilotta

Dr. David C. Tilotta is a Professor in the Department of Forest Biomaterials at North Carolina State University (NC State), specializing in analytical chemistry and wood science. He holds a Ph.D. from Kansas State University and focuses on chemical contamination/decontamination of wood, analytical methodology development for organic/inorganic components detection, and biomass pyrolysis. His work integrates environmental science with structural engineering, addressing issues like wood durability in extreme conditions and pest-resistant tree species.

Key research contributions include studies on Fraser fir resistance to balsam woolly adelgid, pyrolysis product characterization from diseased wood, and moisture management in housing materials. He collaborates with USDA and DOE initiatives, leading projects on disaster-resilient housing, biofuel production from lignocellulosic biomass, and improving wood-based bio-oil quality through torrefaction.

• Education: Ph.D., Kansas State University

Grants include $75K for adelgid-tolerant Christmas tree research and $100K from DOT for biofuel studies. He is affiliated with the American Chemical Society and Forest Products Society.

Current efforts emphasize interdisciplinary solutions for sustainable forestry and housing resilience, including hurricane/flood-resistant building standards and smart moisture sensing systems.