2026 YOUNG ENGINEER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Dr. Yulin Hu's research focuses on sustainable biomass conversion technologies, addressing global challenges in clean energy and environmental sustainability. In hard-to-decarbonize sectors such as the cement and iron/steel industries, aside from the use of low-carbon fuels, it is important to develop highly efficient CO2 capture technologies. Her work on biocarbon materials that are derived from low-value biomass and organic waste for CO2 capture and emission control, particularly at high temperature application. offering a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative for industrial emission control.

H2 as an indispensable element to achieve net zero economy. Dr. Hu has advanced green H2 production through both thermochemical and photochemical routes, which diverts from the grey H2 production via steam methane reforming. A significant contribution is the development of a new photocatalyst, which has shown outperformance in H2 production than conventional photocatalysts.

Aside from gaseous fuels, Dr. Hu also contributed to solid and liquid biofuels by different biomass conversion

technologies. Her contributions to biofuels production by pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction have promoted biooil production while minimizing waste generation. Novel pre-treatment approach has been developed to replace energy-intensive conventional methods that help reduce operating costs and alleviate environmental impacts, making biofuel productions more economically feasible and environmentally friendly.

Through collaborations with industry partners, Dr. Hu's research group has been consistently collaborating with local industry partners to translate the technologies developed at the lab into real-world applications, fostering economic growth and sustainable practices. Her contributions significantly impact the transition to a low-carbon economy, providing practical solutions for clean energy and environmental challenges.