The result of Latvian and Lithuanian collaboration — our scientists’ publication featured on the cover of the New Journal of Chemistry!

The collaborative research conducted by scientists from the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry and the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (Fizinių ir technologijos mokslų centras (FTMC)) in Lithuania has been featured on the cover of the New Journal of Chemistry, Volume 49, Issue 11. The cover artwork, visually interpreting the essence and sustainable innovation potential of the study, was created by artist Lelde Dobele.

The study, titled “Synthesis of high-performance multifunctional electrode material using sweetwood lignin as a precursor,” was carried out within the framework of the Baltic Research Programme and is part of the international project “SuNaMa — Sustainably Produced Carbon Nanomaterials for Energy Applications.” The project aims to develop innovative, environmentally friendly carbon nanomaterials for energy technologies, utilizing renewable bioresources such as industrially sourced “Sweetwoods” lignin.

In this research, a nitrogen-doped activated carbon material with a high specific surface area and porosity was synthesized. This multifunctional material exhibited excellent electrocatalytic properties in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and high specific capacitance in supercapacitor applications, performing comparably to or even surpassing commercially available platinum catalysts.

We proudly highlight the significant contributions of our colleagues — Ph.D. Ance Pļavniece, Dr. sc. ing. Aleksandrs Voļperts, Dr. habil. chem. Galina Dobele un Dr. sc. ing. Aivars Žūriņš — in this international study and express our gratitude for the successful collaboration with our Lithuanian partners.

The full publication is available here: New Journal of Chemistry.