Saikat Dutta

Bio: Saikat Dutta is an academic researcher from Amity University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Catalysis & Lignocellulosic biomass. The author has an hindex of 36, co-authored 68 publications receiving 5536 citations. Previous affiliations of Saikat Dutta include University of Delaware & University of Florida.

Hierarchically porous carbon derived from polymers and biomass: effect of interconnected pores on energy applications

Abstract: Hierarchically porous carbons (HPCs) with 1D to 3D network are attracting vast interest due to their potential technological application profile ranging from electrochemical capacitors, lithium ion batteries, solar cells, hydrogen storage systems, photonic material, fuel cells, sorbent for toxic gas separation and so on. Natural raw-materials such as biomass-biopolymer derived hierarchical nanostructured carbons are especially attractive for their uniform pore dimensions which can be adjustable over a wide range of length scales. Good electrical conductivity, high surface area, and excellent chemical stability are unique physicochemical properties which are responsible for micro/nanostructured porous carbon to be highly trusted candidate for emerging nanotechnologies. This review focuses on the ‘out-of-the-box’ synthetic techniques capable of deriving HPC with superior application profiles. The article presents the promising scope of accessing HPCs from (1) hard-templating, soft-templating, and non-templating routes, (2) biopolymers with a major focus on non-templating strategies. Subsequently, emerging strategies of hetero-atom doping in porous carbon nanostructures are discussed. The review will highlight the contribution of synergistic effect of macro–meso–micropores on a range of emerging applications such as CO2 capture, carbon photonic crystal sensors, Li–S batteries, and supercapacitor. Mechanism of ion transport and buffering, electrical double layer enhancement have been discussed in the context of pore structure and shapes. We will also show the differences of HPC and ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC) in terms of their synthesis strategies and choices of template for self-assembly. How the remarkable mechanical strength of the HPCs can be achieved by selecting self-assembling template, whereas collapse of mesostructure via decomposition of framework occurs due to poor thermal stability or high N-content of the carbon source will be discussed.

Imparting functionality to biocatalysts via embedding enzymes into nanoporous materials by a de novo approach: size-selective sheltering of catalase in metal-organic framework microcrystals.

Abstract: We develop a new concept to impart new functions to biocatalysts by combining enzymes and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). The proof-of-concept design is demonstrated by embedding catalase molecules into uniformly sized ZIF-90 crystals via a de novo approach. We have carried out electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, nitrogen sorption, electrophoresis, thermogravimetric analysis, and confocal microscopy to confirm that the ∼10 nm catalase molecules are embedded in 2 μm single-crystalline ZIF-90 crystals with ∼5 wt % loading. Because catalase is immobilized and sheltered by the ZIF-90 crystals, the composites show activity in hydrogen peroxide degradation even in the presence of protease proteinase K.

Strategies for Improving the Functionality of Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks: Tailoring Nanoarchitectures for Functional Applications.

Abstract: Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), a subclass of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) built with tetrahedral metal ions and imidazolates, offer permanent porosity and high thermal and chemical stabilities. While ZIFs possess some attractive physical and chemical properties, it remains important to enhance their functionality for practical application. Here, an overview of the extensive strategies which have been developed to improve the functionality of ZIFs is provided, including linker modifications, functional hybridization of ZIFs via the encapsulation of guest species (such as metal and metal oxide nanoparticles and biomolecules) into ZIFs, and hybridization with polymeric matrices to form mixed matrix membranes for industrial gas and liquid separations. Furthermore, the developed strategies for achieving size and shape control of ZIF nanocrystals are considered, which are important for optimizing the textural characteristics as well as the functional performance of ZIFs and their derived materials/hybrids. Moreover, the recent trends of using ZIFs as templates for the derivation of nanoporous hybrid materials, including carbon/metal, carbon/oxide, carbon/sulfide, and carbon/phosphide hybrids, are discussed. Finally, some perspectives on the potential future research directions and applications for ZIFs and ZIF-derived materials are offered.

3D network of cellulose-based energy storage devices and related emerging applications

Abstract: There has recently been a major thrust toward advanced research in the area of hierarchical carbon nanostructured electrodes derived from cellulosic resources, such as cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), which are accessible from natural cellulose and bacterial cellulose (BC). This research is providing a firm scientific basis for recognizing the inherent mechanical and electrochemical properties of those composite carbon materials that are suitable for carbon-electrode applications, where they represent obvious alternatives to replace the current monopoly of carbon materials (carbon nanotubes, reduced graphene oxide, and their derivatives). Significant promising developments in this area are strengthened by the one dimensional (1D) nanostructures and excellent hydrophobicity of the CNFs, the interconnected pore networks of carbon aerogels, and the biodegradable and flexible nature of cellulose paper and graphenic fibers. Outstanding electrode materials with different dimensions (1D, 3D) are derivable by the strategic choice of cellulose sources. This development requires special attention in terms of understanding the significant impact of the cellulose morphology on the final electrochemical performance. This review article attempts to emphasize the role of the different structural forms and corresponding composites derived from different forms of cellulose, including bacterial cellulose and its varied 3D nanostructures. This article strongly highlights that cellulose deserves special attention as an extremely abundant and extensively recyclable material that can serve as a source of components for electronic and energy devices. Along with emphasizing current trends in electrochemical device components from cellulose, we address a few emerging areas that may lead in future such as enzyme immobilization, flexible electronics, modelling of cellulosic microfibrils. Finally, we have discussed some of the important future prospects for cellulose as source of materials for future.

Hydroxymethylfurfural, A Versatile Platform Chemical Made from Renewable Resources

Abstract: Renewable Resources Robert-Jan van Putten,†,‡ Jan C. van der Waal,† Ed de Jong,*,† Carolus B. Rasrendra,‡,⊥ Hero J. Heeres,*,‡ and Johannes G. de Vries* †Avantium Chemicals, Zekeringstraat 29, 1014 BV Amsterdam, the Netherlands ‡Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, the Netherlands Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, the Netherlands DSM Innovative Synthesis BV, P.O. Box 18, 6160 MD Geleen, the Netherlands Department of Chemical Engineering, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Ganesha 10, Bandung 40132, Indonesia

Supercapacitor electrode materials: nanostructures from 0 to 3 dimensions

Abstract: Supercapacitors have drawn considerable attention in recent years due to their high specific power, long cycle life, and ability to bridge the power/energy gap between conventional capacitors and batteries/fuel cells. Nanostructured electrode materials have demonstrated superior electrochemical properties in producing high-performance supercapacitors. In this review article, we describe the recent progress and advances in designing nanostructured supercapacitor electrode materials based on various dimensions ranging from zero to three. We highlight the effect of nanostructures on the properties of supercapacitors including specific capacitance, rate capability and cycle stability, which may serve as a guideline for the next generation of supercapacitor electrode design.

Catalytic Transformation of Lignin for the Production of Chemicals and Fuels

Abstract: and Fuels Changzhi Li,† Xiaochen Zhao,† Aiqin Wang,† George W. Huber,†,‡ and Tao Zhang*,† †State Key Laborotary of Catalysis, iChEM (Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials), Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China ‡Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of WisconsinMadison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States

Metal–organic frameworks meet metal nanoparticles: synergistic effect for enhanced catalysis

Abstract: Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), established as a relatively new class of crystalline porous materials with high surface area, structural diversity, and tailorability, attract extensive interest and exhibit a variety of applications, especially in catalysis. Their permanent porosity enables their inherent superiority in confining guest species, particularly small metal nanoparticles (MNPs), for improved catalytic performance and/or the expansion of reaction scope. This is a rapidly developing interdisciplinary research field. In this review, we provide an overview of significant progress in the development of MNP/MOF composites, including various preparation strategies and characterization methods as well as catalytic applications. Special emphasis is placed on synergistic effects between the two components that result in an enhanced performance in heterogeneous catalysis. Finally, the prospects of MNP/MOF composites in catalysis and remaining issues in this field have been indicated.