Michael Goepel

Dr. Michael Goepel serves as a Researcher at the Institute of Technical Chemistry, University of Leipzig, specializing in sustainable catalytic processes for bioeconomy and CO₂ utilization. His work bridges chemical engineering and environmental science to develop innovative solutions for green chemistry applications.

His research centers on Heterogeneous Catalysis, CO₂ Conversion, and Biomass Valorization, with emphasis on designing bifunctional catalysts for hydrodeoxygenation, hydrogenation, and dry reforming reactions. Key methodologies include nanomaterial synthesis (e.g., chitosan-derived carbons, Pd-nanomaterials), mechanochemical preparation techniques, and pore-structure optimization in catalyst supports to enhance mass transfer and reaction efficiency.

Analysis of his 2015-2020 publications reveals a consistent focus on sustainable feedstocks (furfural, bio-oils, CO₂) and renewable energy carriers. His work integrates materials science with reaction engineering to address challenges in bioeconomy, particularly in converting waste streams into value-added chemicals through solar-driven and catalytic processes.

Dr. Goepel has secured significant EU ERDF funding for projects including "New concepts of integrative bioeconomy" (2017-2020) on CO₂ upgrading with sunlight, and "Green biofilms for chemical catalysis" (2017-2020), collaborating with Heterogeneous Catalysis and Biology units. His research directly supports Leipzig's sustainability initiatives through technology development for circular chemical production.