Dr Luma Al-saadi

Profile

I am a post-doctorate research fellow with 12+ years of cross-sector expertise in renewable energy, carbon capture (MCFC/BECCS), and industrial decarbonization. I have led high-impact projects in blue/green hydrogen, waste-to-energy, and circular economy systems, combining advanced process modeling (Aspen/Python), techno-economic analysis (TEA), and life cycle assessment (LCA). I have a proven track record in scaling sustainable technologies from lab to industry, optimizing processes (30% energy reduction in biodiesel production), and writing for funding (e.g., CO₂ valorization). I have been published in top journals, supervised PhD/MEng students, and collaborated with UN/industry partners (Drax, Pilkington) to drive net-zero solutions. I am a chartered candidate (IChemE) with strong leadership in R&D and policy advisory roles.

Research interests

My research focuses on developing scalable decarbonization technologies aligned with industrial and policy priorities, particularly working with Drax Group, NSG (Pilkington), and DESNZ on carbon capture systems and with Chip[s] Board on circular economy solutions. Key areas include:

1. MCFC/BECCS Integration for Industrial Decarbonization

   • Collaborating with Drax Group to optimize MCFC-integrated BECCS systems for negative emissions in bioenergy plants (Drax BECCS).

   • Partnering with NSG (Pilkington) to decarbonize glass manufacturing through MCFC-based CO₂ capture, supporting DESNZ's Industrial Carbon Capture Strategy (DESNZ ICCS).

2. Hydrogen & Low-Carbon Fuels

   • Assessing blue hydrogen with CCS for DESNZ's Hydrogen Business Model (UK H2 Strategy).

   • Waste-to-fuels conversion (e.g., biodiesel, e-methanol) for Drax’s renewable energy portfolio.

3. Waste Valorization & Circular Materials (with Chip[s] Board)

   • Leading TEA/LCA for Chip[s] Board’s biomass-based materials, reducing Scope 1-3 emissions in manufacturing (Chip[s] Board).

   • Developing closed-loop processes for plastic/agricultural waste upcycling, aligning with DESNZ’s Circular Economy Package.

Key Tools: Aspen Plus, Python, SuperPro, SimaPro (LCA).

Policy Links:

• DESNZ Net Zero Strategy: GOV.UK

• NSG Glass Decarbonization: NSG Group

Recent Projects:

• DESNZ-aligned MCFC/BECCS integration (University of Leeds).

• CEATI-funded low carbon-fuels feasibility (CEATI International).