Young Researchers Driving Innovation: Romain Torlotin

As part of WASTE2H2’s mission to develop innovative pathways for sustainable hydrogen production, three PhD students are actively contributing to the project’s scientific and technological progress.

Working across different work packages and institutions, they bring fresh perspectives, energy, and dedication to key areas such as plastic valorization, catalytic systems, and process optimization.

Through this series, we introduce their research focus, challenges, and personal insights as they help shape the future of green hydrogen.

How do you think your participation in the WASTE2H2 can influence your PhD work, in terms of research focus, methodology, resources, and scientific career development?

My participation in the WASTE2H2 project provides a solid foundation for my PhD. It has allowed me to define a clear research direction focused on the valorization of plastic into hydrogen through innovative catalytic processes, particularly under microwave heating. Methodologically, I have access to an advanced experimental platform (microwave reactors, GC analysis, NMR, etc.), which offers an ideal environment to develop my skills. Working alongside experienced researchers helps me strengthen my scientific rigor. Finally, the European scope of the project opens concrete opportunities for an international career, whether in academia or industry.

What is your specific role within WASTE2H project, and how does it contribute to the overall goals of the consortium?

I am mainly involved in Work Package 4, dedicated to the experimental validation of plastic depolymerization processes and the production of hydrogen-rich gases. Our experiments are conducted in batch reactors, with the aim of transferring the process to continuous flow. We test catalysts provided by WP3 and ionic liquids selected by WP2 to optimize operating conditions (catalyst, temperature, solvent, microwave power, etc.) and to characterize the resulting products. This work also aims to better understand and define the role and benefits of microwave heating in the process. The correlations established between reaction parameters and performance are essential to achieving the project’s goals.

How do you collaborate with other partners/work packages, and how do you coordinate your work with them?

Our team collaborates closely with WP2 and WP3, particularly to test the catalysts and ionic liquids they develop. Coordination is ensured through bi-weekly meetings where we share the progress of each group. We also maintain regular communication by email and in smaller technical meetings to quickly address specific issues.

How is your role evolving as the project progresses, and what are your learnings from the responsibilities you take on?

The first few months were focused on understanding the project, learning the tools, and working closely with the postdoc in my team, Rémi Nguyen. Over time, I have been gaining autonomy while continuing to collaborate with the team. This evolution has helped me develop key transversal skills such as experimental planning, scientific communication, and project management. That said, I still have some way to go before becoming fully independent.

What challenges or difficulties do you currently face in your role within WASTE2H2 project, and how are you addressing them?

The main challenge is identifying the optimal catalytic systems. We are currently testing a wide range of formulations from WP3 to find those that offer both high polymer conversion and good hydrogen selectivity. Another, more personal challenge lies in mastering certain tools and techniques that I am using for the first time. To address this, I dedicate time to self-training and deepening my knowledge to build confidence and technical proficiency.