Marcel Lucas

Title: Innovations by Inventor Marcel Lucas

Introduction

Marcel Lucas is an accomplished inventor based in Pullman, WA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of materials science, particularly in the incorporation of metal nanoparticles into wood substrates. With a total of 2 patents, his work has the potential to revolutionize the use of biomass in various applications.

Latest Patents

One of Marcel's latest patents focuses on the incorporation of metal nanoparticles into wood substrates. This innovative method utilizes ionic liquids to expand the wood cell wall structure, allowing for the effective integration of nanoparticles. Notably, nanoparticles of elemental gold or silver serve as effective imaging contrast or sensing agents in surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Additionally, elemental iron nanoparticles have been identified as efficient microwave absorbers, which can cause localized heating to disrupt the integrity of the lignocellulosic matrix. This localized heating reduces losses of cellulose in the form of water, volatiles, and CO. The process requires small amounts of ionic liquid at room temperature, which, combined with the absence of a purification step, is expected to lower costs in an up-scaled pretreatment process.

Another significant patent involves a mild and inexpensive process for decomposing lignin in biomass. This method employs oxidative delignification of wood using an aqueous solution of manganese (III) acetate and hydrogen peroxide. Within four days and without agitation, this solution converts poplar wood sections into a fine powder-like delignified material rich in cellulose, which includes individual wood cells.

Career Highlights

Marcel Lucas is currently employed at Los Alamos National Security, LLC, where he continues to innovate and develop new technologies. His work is characterized by a commitment to sustainability and efficiency in biomass processing.

Collaborations

Marcel has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Kirk Davin Rector and Gregory Lawrence Wagner. Their combined expertise contributes to the advancement of research in materials science and biomass applications.

Conclusion

Marcel Lucas is a pioneering inventor whose work in incorporating metal nanoparticles into wood substrates and decomposing lignin in biomass showcases his innovative spirit. His contributions have the potential to significantly impact the field of materials science and sustainability.