Graduate Student since Fall 2019
Education: B.S. Chemical Engineering – University of Rochester
Thesis Topic: Plastic Waste Deconstruction and Valorization for Circularity
Research Description:
Nik’s research is motivated by the enormous plastics waste dilemma that society is facing. Previous projects include investigation of plastic waste valorization for the production of alpha-hydroxy acids, oxyfunctionalization of polymer chains and sequential chain scission for value-added oxygenates, and high yield production of lactic acid from acetone. Nik recently joined the Center for Plastics Innovation hosted at the University of Delaware to investigate the homogenous catalytic deconstruction of polyolefins.
Contact: nangyal@udel.edu
Other fun facts or hobbies: Outside of lab, Nik enjoys both playing and watch soccer, hiking, and reading.