Innovate and React

Chemistry is everywhere and it helps us to understand the world around us. From materials, over biological processes to energy conversion. New breakthroughs in chemical research can have an impact on how we see the wold in the fundamental or derive new application for our everyday lives. In this podcast I talk to scientists and about their innovations in chemistry and the reactions behind them.

28 episodes

1mo ago latest

fortnightly cadence

English language

▶ Play latestRSS feed Website Science Chemistry

https://innovateandreact.com/feed/mp3/

Episodes 29

Replacing crude oil with local plants to make chemicals
4d ago · 40:57
In this episode of Innovate and React, I welcome my former PhD mentor, Dr. Thomas Seidensticker from TU Dortmund, to explore how oleochemistry can provide a sustainable, locally grown alternative to crude oil for the chemical industry. While the traditional chemical sector relies heavily on cheap fossil fuels, plant oils naturally offer closely related hydrocarbon chains that can be functionalized for everyday products like surfactants, cosmetics, and polymers. However, shifting away from crude oil presents the unique challenge of dealing with complex, inhomogeneous fatty acid profiles that co
Replacing chemical plants with methanol-eating bacteria
1mo ago · 37:56
In this episode of Innovate and React, I welcome Dr. Ronja Rappold, co-founder of TENO Bioworks, to explore how microorganisms and synthetic biology can transform alternative carbon sources into high-value chemicals. While biological manufacturing is well known for producing life-saving pharmaceuticals like insulin or traditional fermented goods, shifting base and fine chemical production away from fossil fuels presents a unique challenge. Relying solely on agricultural sugars introduces significant "food vs. fuel" conflicts and risks breaching critical planetary boundaries, including land use
Defying Markovnikov: A New Spin on the Wacker Oxidation
1mo ago · 40:30
In this episode of Innovate and React, I welcome back Thomas Bouveyron from and TH Köln to explore how we can make conventional petrochemical pathways more sustainable. We look into the synthesis of n-decanal, which is a crucial molecule in the fragrance industry and a key scent in Chanel No. 5. Thomas' gaol is to shift from crude oil- to bio-based building blocks. How do you bend the rules of classical Wacker oxidation to favor the usually unfavored anti-Markovnikov product? Thomas shares his methodology, combining statistical Design of Experiments (DOE) and computational Density Functional T
The Perfect Compromise: Unlocking the Future of Green Hydrogen with AEM
2mo ago · 55:48
In this episode of Innovate and React, I met with Miriam Hesse and Bastian Kaufmann, researchers at the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Center (ZBT) to discuss the rising potential of Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) water electrolysis. We explore how AEM serves as the perfect compromise between traditional alkaline systems and proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis, offering high efficiency without the reliance on expensive precious metals like platinum and iridium. Miriam and Bastian share their journey into hydrogen research and how ZBT acts as a crucial bridge between fundamental chemistry and ap
Stopping PFAS at the Source: Innovating Industrial Wastewater Treatment
3mo ago · 27:54
In this episode of Innovate and React, I met with Dr. Rhea Machado, the CEO and co-founder of Porelio, to discuss their solution for removing forever chemicals from our drinking water. We explore the widespread issue of PFAS accumulating in our water, our food, and even unborn children, and how short-chain PFAS remain a massive challenge because traditional methods like activated carbon and ion exchange resins fail to capture them. Rhea shares Porelio's journey as a spinoff from the Technical University Berlin, where they took highly efficient but traditionally hard-to-produce functionalized o
Beyond Fertilizer: The Future of Low-Emission Ammonia
4mo ago · 1:09:14
In this episode of Innovate and React, I met with Kevin Rouwenhorst, the technology manager at the Ammonia Energy Association, to discuss the future of sustainable ammonia synthesis. We explore his journey into the clean molecule space, which ultimately led him to write a comprehensive book on low-emission ammonia technologies. Kevin clarifies a common misconception about the traditional Haber-Bosch process, explaining that over 90% of its CO2 emissions actually stem from hydrogen production, such as steam methane reforming or coal gasification, rather than the ammonia synthesis loop itself. T
Scaling Sustainable Chemistry: How Startups Can Transform the Industry
4mo ago · 43:40
In this episode of Innovate and React, I met with Stefan Weber and Martin Bellof, the founders of Chemstars, to discuss how to overcome common hurdles for founders in the chemical space. We explore the massive transformation currently underway in the chemical industry. Startups are a vital missing puzzle piece to help the industry move toward circularity, climate neutrality, and industrial resilience. Stefan and Martin explain how they help connect the startup ecosystem with the chemical industry to bring scientific innovations from the lab to the market. The conversation dives deep into the s
How innovative coatings are stopping microplastic pollution of the Ocean
5mo ago
In this episode of Innovate and React, I met with Dr. Christina Linke, a co-founder of Clean Ocean Coatings, to discuss how innovative chemistry can solve the pressing issue of biofouling in the shipping industry. We explore the massive environmental and economic costs of marine organisms attaching to ship hulls, which increases drag and leads to an estimated $150 billion in annual damages. Christina shares her journey from being a food scientist to discovering a nanostructured material, ultimately leading her to launch the startup during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The conversation dives deep int
Why Reversing the Haber-Bosch Process Requires a New Catalyst
5mo ago · 53:14
In this episode of Innovate and React, I met with Malte Behrens, a professor of inorganic solid-state chemistry at the University of Kiel, to discuss ammonia as a vital carrier for the hydrogen economy. We explore the challenges of transporting pure hydrogen and how converting it into ammonia offers a more practical, carbon-free solution due to its ease of liquefaction and higher volumetric energy density. Malte shares his journey from solid-state chemistry to heterogeneous catalysis. The conversation dives deep into the necessity of discovering effective and scalable catalysts to decompose, o
Safe Hydrogen Storage with Salts: Alternative to Pressure Tanks and Ammonia
5mo ago · 48:04
In this episode of Innovate and React, host I sit down with Jonas Massa, co-founder of AKROS Energy, to tackle the pressing challenges of hydrogen storage and transportation. While green hydrogen is a promising energy carrier for fluctuating renewables, its highly flammable nature poses significant safety and regulatory hurdles, especially for decentralized applications involving non-specialist personnel. Jonas breaks down why conventional storage methods, like highly pressurized vessels or toxic ammonia, fall short for widespread, small-scale use. To solve this, AKROS Energy is developing a r
How to bring chemical innovations from research to application
6mo ago · 53:41
In this episode of Innovate and React, i am talking with Dr. Petra Ryl, innovation and talent lead at greenCHEM Berlin. We explore how innovation is transforming the chemical industry and how research from universities can be applied practically. Petra shares her journey from academic biochemical research to working at greenCHEM, explaining the importance of sustainable materials and the transition from fossil-based to regenerative resources. They discuss the role of disruptive innovation, the advantages of startups in driving change, and how greenCHEM supports entrepreneurs through various pr
The beginning and challenges of Natural Products in cancer treatments
8mo ago · 25:31
This episode of Innovate and React explores the fascinating history of natural product research and its pivotal role in developing life-saving cancer treatments. The journey begins in the 1950s and 60s with the National Cancer Institute's efforts to screen thousands of plant extracts for biological activity. Through the stories of landmark compounds like camptothecin and Taxol, Kevin illustrates the complex collaboration required between botanists and chemists to isolate active ingredients from nature and transform them into viable medical therapies. The episode delves into the origins of Taxo
Turning Methane into Value-Chemicals via Photocatalysis
9mo ago · 39:34
In this episode we discuss a novel and sustainable approach to converting methane into valuable chemicals. Currently light hydrocarbons like methane are often simply burned for energy, despite their potential as a carbon source for the chemical industry. Traditional conversion methods like natural gas cracking are energy-intensive, and other functionalization routes require harsh conditions and often toxic chemicals. Dr. Andrés Constantino sharess his research focusing on photocatalysis to achieve the direct functionalization of methane under milder conditions. The key to this method is a supr
Sustainable Chemistry and Advances in Catalysis
9mo ago · 36:54
In this episode we discuss sustainable chemistry and the replacement of critical materials like platinum group elements with guest Dr. Soumyadeep Chakrabortty from the Max-Planck-Institute for Kohlenforschung. We delve into the importance of sustainability in chemical reactions, the role of catalysis, and the development of more benign and cost-effective catalysts. Soumyadeep shares his experiences with asymmetric hydrogenation and the creation of a new ligands for pharmaceutical applications. The conversation also touches on collaboration between academia and industry and the impact of high-t
One chemical reaction to feed them all: The synthesis of ammonia
10mo ago · 14:51
In this episode of Innovate and React, I delve into the groundbreaking discovery of the Haber-Bosch process, which revolutionized agriculture and the chemical industry by synthesizing ammonia from atmospheric nitrogen and hydrogen. Starting with a historical perspective from the 19th, the episode explores the pivotal contributions of Fritz Haber and Carl Bosch to the invention of the Haber-Bosch process. It covers the scientific challenges, innovations, and controversies surrounding Haber’s research, and how Bosch made the reaction viable for industrial scale. The episode also discusses the mo
New breakthroughs in oxygen evolution reaction for water electrolysis
11mo ago · 41:07
In this episode of Innovate and React, we dive into the world of water electrolysis and how theoretical chemistry can help design better catalysts for clean hydrogen production. Mohammad Usama, a PhD researcher at the University of Duisburg-Essen, shares his unconventional journey from mechatronics and automotive engineering to electrochemistry and catalysis. We discuss his work on iridium dioxide surfaces for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER)—the bottleneck in water electrolysis—and the discovery of a novel Walden-type pathway. This finding helps us to better understand the reaction mechani
Reducing shipping emissions to thin air using catalysis
1y ago · 48:35
In this episode of Innovate and React, we discuss how catalysis can be utilized for water treatment and reducing pollution from shipping. Janek Betting, a PhD researcher from the University of Twente, shares his current research on nitrate and nitrite reduction in wastewater using heterogeneous bimetallic catalysts. We delve into the sources of these pollutants, primarily from agriculture, industrial processes as well as shipping, and explore an innovative project aimed at reducing emissions from cargo ships by using LNG and advanced catalytic processes for emission control. Janek explains the
How solid state NMR works and how it helps to understand proteins
1y ago · 1:17:48
In this episode of Innovate and React Anne Mayer, a PhD researcher at Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, explains how solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy works and how she uses this analytical method for protein studies. We dive into the fascinating world of NMR—from the basics of nuclear spins and magnetic fields to the complex hardware challenges of solid-state NMR. Anne shares how she investigates membrane proteins and microbial rhodopsins, revealing how solid-state NMR provides insights into protein dynamics and optogenetics. We also discuss the importance of fundamental r
How metal organic complexes can shape your electronic devices
1y ago · 47:36
In this episode of Innovate and React, Dr. Leonardo Santoni, a postdoctoral researcher at UCL and a science content creator, shares his insights into the fascinating world of metal-organic precursors for low-temperature metal deposition. He presents his PhD research on aluminum complexes for printed electronics, highlighting the challenges of precursor design, deposition techniques, and the potential of sustainable and user-friendly alternatives to pyrophoric materials. In the second part Leonardo gives his opinion on science communication how short form videos can make chemistry accessible fo
Fischer-Tropsch: From Waste to Fuel
1y ago · 59:06
In this episode of Innovate and React, Theresa Köffler from BEST – Bioenergy and Sustainable Technologies in Vienna is talking about how to turn waste into fuel. We explore the fascinating role of Fischer-Tropsch synthesis for producing sustainable fuels. From the development of demonstration plants to the integration of syngas from biogenic feedstocks, Theresa shares insights into the future of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and decentralized energy systems. The episode covers both the technical challenges and the broader implications for climate-friendly energy independence.
Green Methanol: Old Chemistry Meets New Energy
1y ago · 1:06:38
In this episode we discuss the critical role of methanol synthesis and hydrogen energy carriers in the energy transition. Florian, a scientific advisor at Fraunhofer ISE, explains his work in sustainable synthesis processes and the significance of hydrogen as a renewable energy source. We delve into the technical challenges of methanol synthesis using CO2 and hydrogen, the importance of dynamic operation and the purity of the syngas feedstock. Florian also highlights the strategic advantages of utilizing green methanol and advanced synthesis processes for industrial applications and future ene
Unlocking the Potential of Hydrogen in a Renewable Energy Future
1y ago · 17:08
This episode is a dive into the dynamic world of hydrogen and its pivotal role in the future of clean energy. Key topics covered include the challenges of intermittent renewable energy sources, the mechanics and benefits of hydrogen as an energy carrier, the hurdles in hydrogen production and infrastructure, and the promise of converting hydrogen into transportable compounds like ammonia and methanol. The episode also explores the potential for hydrogen to revolutionize various industries and offer energy independence.
Mitochondrial Biogenesis - How mitochondria get their spare parts
1y ago · 56:28
In this episode of Innovate and React we look at the interface between biology and chemistry. Alexandra, a biochemist studying mitochondrial biogenesis, shares her journey from moving to Germany, and ultimately diving into biochemistry. The conversation delves into the complex processes of mitochondrial function, including their role in energy production, calcium signaling, and apoptosis (programmed cell death). Alexandra discusses her current research on the ER SURF pathway and its implications for understanding protein transport, which could potentially lead to breakthroughs in treating dise
Is doing a PhD in worth it? From Brown Sludge to Breakthroughs
1y ago · 38:24
Are you thinking about pursuing a PhD in chemistry and have wondered if its with the struggle? In this episode of 'Innovate and React', we discuss the personal and professional journey of pursuing a PhD and share our motivations for studying chemistry. We discuss the challenges and surprises encountered during our PhD journey, and the important skills we developed through teaching and research. Every journey is different and depends on many different things. We give a glimpse into our experience with doing a PhD in chemistry and how it can be worth it.
Challenging HSAB: Reactive Molecules and Nucleophiles
1y ago · 44:24
In this episode of Innovate and React, I am talking with Justus Reitz, a chemist from TU Dortmund University, about the limitations of the HSAB (Hard and Soft Acids and Bases) concept in predicting reaction outcomes. We explore an alternative approach using the nucleophilicity scale developed by the Mayr group, which offers a more accurate prediction method. Justus shares insights from his PhD research on stabilizing highly reactive molecules, particularly the synthesis and stabilization of diazoalkenes. We discuss how the Mayr nucleophilicity scale can facilitate understanding and controlling

Episodes

Reading the feed…

More Science shows

Innovate and React

Episodes 29

Replacing crude oil with local plants to make chemicals

Replacing chemical plants with methanol-eating bacteria

Defying Markovnikov: A New Spin on the Wacker Oxidation

The Perfect Compromise: Unlocking the Future of Green Hydrogen with AEM

Stopping PFAS at the Source: Innovating Industrial Wastewater Treatment

Beyond Fertilizer: The Future of Low-Emission Ammonia

Scaling Sustainable Chemistry: How Startups Can Transform the Industry

How innovative coatings are stopping microplastic pollution of the Ocean

Why Reversing the Haber-Bosch Process Requires a New Catalyst

Safe Hydrogen Storage with Salts: Alternative to Pressure Tanks and Ammonia

How to bring chemical innovations from research to application

The beginning and challenges of Natural Products in cancer treatments

Turning Methane into Value-Chemicals via Photocatalysis

Sustainable Chemistry and Advances in Catalysis

One chemical reaction to feed them all: The synthesis of ammonia

New breakthroughs in oxygen evolution reaction for water electrolysis

Reducing shipping emissions to thin air using catalysis

How solid state NMR works and how it helps to understand proteins

How metal organic complexes can shape your electronic devices

Fischer-Tropsch: From Waste to Fuel

Green Methanol: Old Chemistry Meets New Energy

Unlocking the Potential of Hydrogen in a Renewable Energy Future

Mitochondrial Biogenesis - How mitochondria get their spare parts

Is doing a PhD in worth it? From Brown Sludge to Breakthroughs

Challenging HSAB: Reactive Molecules and Nucleophiles

Episodes

More Science shows

Arizona Science

WiTcast

Evrim Ağacı ile Bilime Dair Her Şey!

A Moment of Science

Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast

Ask the Naked Scientists

Episodes 29

Replacing crude oil with local plants to make chemicals

Replacing chemical plants with methanol-eating bacteria

Defying Markovnikov: A New Spin on the Wacker Oxidation

The Perfect Compromise: Unlocking the Future of Green Hydrogen with AEM

Stopping PFAS at the Source: Innovating Industrial Wastewater Treatment

Beyond Fertilizer: The Future of Low-Emission Ammonia

Scaling Sustainable Chemistry: How Startups Can Transform the Industry

How innovative coatings are stopping microplastic pollution of the Ocean

Why Reversing the Haber-Bosch Process Requires a New Catalyst

Safe Hydrogen Storage with Salts: Alternative to Pressure Tanks and Ammonia

How to bring chemical innovations from research to application

The beginning and challenges of Natural Products in cancer treatments

Turning Methane into Value-Chemicals via Photocatalysis

Sustainable Chemistry and Advances in Catalysis

One chemical reaction to feed them all: The synthesis of ammonia

New breakthroughs in oxygen evolution reaction for water electrolysis

Reducing shipping emissions to thin air using catalysis

How solid state NMR works and how it helps to understand proteins

How metal organic complexes can shape your electronic devices

Fischer-Tropsch: From Waste to Fuel

Green Methanol: Old Chemistry Meets New Energy

Unlocking the Potential of Hydrogen in a Renewable Energy Future

Mitochondrial Biogenesis - How mitochondria get their spare parts

Is doing a PhD in worth it? From Brown Sludge to Breakthroughs

Challenging HSAB: Reactive Molecules and Nucleophiles