De Chen

Professor De Chen is a distinguished faculty member in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), where he has served as a Professor since 2001 after being promoted from Associate Professor (1998-2001). He holds leadership positions including Director of the Innovation Hub of Chemical Upcycling of Wastes at NTNU-Quantafuel (since 2021) and plays a vital role in the National Innovation Center of Industrial Catalysis Science and Innovation (iCSI) and National Environmental Energy Centers (FME) of Biomass for Fuels (Bio4Fuels).

Professor Chen's research spans multiple dimensions of catalysis science and industrial chemical processes. His work integrates theoretical and experimental approaches to heterogeneous catalysis, resulting in groundbreaking catalysts applied across various sectors. His research program encompasses multiscale catalysis studies, mechanistic and kinetic analyses, biomass conversion techniques, process scaling up, and rational catalyst design. His innovations have practical applications in gas-to-liquids processes, PVC monomer production, biomass conversion, natural gas-to-olefins transformation, hydrogen production, CO2 capture technologies, plastic waste recycling, and energy storage solutions.

Professor Chen has received numerous prestigious honors throughout his career:

• Fellow of Global Academic Chinese Chemical Engineering Society (2023)
• Member of the Royal Norwegian Academy of Sciences and Letters (2021)
• Innovation Award from NTNU (2019)
• Honorary professorships from China University of Petroleum and East China University of Science and Technology (2015)
• Li Chin Research Award from Chinese Academy, Metal Institute (2014)
• Member of the Norwegian Academy of Technological Science (2009)
• ExxonMobil Best Research Award from NTNU (2004)

With an impressive scholarly record, Professor Chen has published over 450 peer-reviewed scientific papers with an H-index of 84. His work has garnered significant international recognition and impact. Beyond publications, he has secured substantial research funding and holds more than 10 patents licensed to industrial partners, demonstrating the practical value and commercial viability of his research. His academic leadership extends to visiting professorships at the University of California at Berkeley (2009-2010) and East China University of Science and Technology (2017-2018).

Professor Chen leads a dynamic research environment focused on industrial catalysis science and innovation. His laboratory and research teams maintain strong industry partnerships, particularly through the NTNU-Quantafuel Innovation Hub for chemical upcycling of wastes. His research groups actively collaborate with international institutions and industrial partners to translate fundamental catalysis research into practical solutions for energy conversion, environmental protection, and sustainable chemical production.