LABORATORY FOR COMPLEX

AND INTEGRATED PROCESSING

OF BIOMASS RESOURCES

MED RES-Lab

A dynamic group with ideas in the frontline of integrated

processing of biomass resources

Biomass

Biorefinery

Bio

products

Bio-fuels

Sustainable development

Resources

From Waste to Wealth using Green Chemistry

Content

About MED RES-Lab

EU Projects

Partnerships

Research priorities

Research infrastructure

Team

Outputs

Services available

Contact

About MED RES-Lab

The mission of MED RES-lab is to contribute to the National and EU scientific and technological development in the area of biorefining and complex processing of biomass resources using chemical and biochemical processes.

Our vision involves contributions from Environmental Engineering, Materials, Biology, Process and Product Engineering.

MED RES-Lab was set up in the framework of The National Plan for Research, Development and Innovation for the period 2007-2013 - Capacities Program.

Project 94-CP/I/14.09.2007-INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT OF QUALITY CONTROL IN ORDER TO ESTIMATE, CHARACTERIZE AND RECOVERY RENEWABLE AND RECYCLABLE RESOURCES, USING CHEMICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL PROCESSES.

Location The Host Institution is the Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Protection of the Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi. The Laboratory also incorporates individual researchers of other private and public higher education institutions.

Contracting Authority:

Government of Romania Ministry of Education and Research

National Authority for Research

Contractor: Gheorghe Asachi Technical University

of Iasi, Romania

Project director

Assoc. Prof. PhD. Irina VOLF Environmental Engineering and

Management Department

Research

Lines

o Assessment and identification of valuable bioresources for bio energy and biobased products;

o Extraction (including conventional and non-conventional techniques - supercritical fluid

extraction, ultrasonication), separation and characterization techniques of secondary and main

compounds from biomass;

o Complex processing of biomass using green chemistry principles;

o Natural Treatment Systems (based on biomass or its components and derivatives:

o bioremediation of degraded land and poor crop production based on vegetal material

(peat, sawdust, wastes form biomass processing, lignocellulose and polyphenolic

products) as amendments;

o phytoremediation: phytoextraction or phytostabilization by combination of different

kinds of amendments and plant cultivation (terrestrial and aquatic species - hydroponic

cultures);

o removal of heavy metal ions using natural sorbents (algae, agricultural wastes)

o plant growth regulators, antifungals and antibacterials for crop protection based on

natural products.

o Biorefinery.

o Formulation of high-added value products.

The main idea is to change present technologies by developing alternatives to shape the

chemical industry of the future. It is all about innovation: a combination of science and technology

to develop new processes and products in a sustainable way.

People

3 PhD Members

14 PhD students

3 post-doc

35 masters of science

Results & Funding

PhD

Theses

Post-

Doc

ISI

Papers

BDI

Papers

Communi

cation

Books Scientific

prizes

awarded

2007 1 - 1 - 4 2 1

2008 2 - 1 - 2 1 1

2009 1 - 6 8 1 - 1

2010 1 - 2 5 11 5 3

2011 3 - 9 7 7 1 1

2012 1 - 6 3 2 - -

2013 2 1 6 - 2 6 -

EU Projects

2002 – 2004

AGRAL Program, contract 222/2002: Implementing and Promoting

the Technology for a New Food Supplement with Antioxidant

Activity based on Natural Grape Juice and Seed Extracts.

2001-2004 AGRAL Program: Legalization of Clones with High Production

Quality of Busuioacă de Bohotin local variety Designed to Produce

Aromatic Rosé Wines.

2001-2003 NURC Contract -2001: Antioxidant Plant Compounds and

Synthetic Succedanea.

2001-2003 GROWTH Program 2001: Coordination network for Lignin EC

Standardization, Production and Applications Adapted to Market

Requirements (EUROLIGNIN).

2005 - 2006 NURC Grant A, Contract 34664/24.06.2005, Code 511, issue 27,

Identification and Analysis of Strategies and Technologies for

Pollution Prevention and Cleaner Production, as Instruments of

Sustainable Development, Production Systems and Services.

2005 - 2006 NURC Grant A, code 774: Bioremediation of Environmental

Factors Affected by Pollution applying Specific Processes of

Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology.

2005 - 2008 CEEX Program - 2005: contract no.65/2005 Advanced Treatment

Technologies to Recycle Industrial Effluents (RIWATECH).

2005 - 2007 CEEX Program - 2006: M3 CNMP, contract no. 115/2007

Integrated Network for Sustainable Management of Water

Resources (SIWMANET).

2005 - 2008 CEEX Program – 2006, contract no.91/2005: New nanostructured

systems for controlled release of pharmacological agents

(NANOCOFARM).

2006 CEEX Program - M2 2006 contract no. 1650/26.09.2006.

Education and Training in Research Management. SC Rulmentul

Barlad.

2006 CEEX Program - M2 2006 contract no. 1651 / 26.09.2006.

Education and Training in Research Management. Antibiotics SA

Iasi.

2006 - 2008 Program Socrates Erasmus–MOD-51388-IO-1-2004-1-RO-

ERASMUS-MODUC-6. „MASS-Management and Security

Assessment for Sustainable Environment”.

2007 - 2009

PNCDI II Program Capacities, contract no. 94/2007; Infrastructure

Development of Quality Control for Environmental Factors

Laboratory in order to Estimate, Characterize and Recovery

Renewable and Recycle Sources, using Chemical and

Biochemical Methods" (Med Res LAB).

2007 - 2010

PNCDI II Partnerships in Priority Areas; funding contract no. 61

038/18.09.2007 Advanced Research Techniques for

Microbiological Agents Elimination in Water Purification Processes

Using a new UV Radiation Prototype.

2008 - 2011 PN II ID 2008 PCE 2, Ideas, Code 368, Combined Processes of

Advanced Wastewater Treatment for Persistent Organic Pollutants

Elimination and Wastewater Biodegradability Improvement.

2008 - 2011 PNCDI II Partnerships in Priority Areas; funding contract No 32

125/2008, STEDIWAT, Technical and Decisional-Support System

for Sustainable Water Management.

2008 - 2010 COST FP 0602 „Biotechnology for lignocelluloses biorefineries”.

2009 - 2012 COST FP 0901 „Analytical Techniques for Biorefineries”.

2009 - 2012 FP 7 203459 - Wood-Net The implementation of research

potential of the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry in the

European Research Area.

2009 - 2012 Integrated Strategy for the Development of Private Initiative in

non-Agricultural Sectors in Rural Areas of Bacau County,

identification number: POSDRU/52/5.2/G/38328.

2007-2012 POS-DRU 2007-2013, Priority Axis "University for the future."

Correct information - key to recognition of education. Ministry of

Research and Innovation, National Centre for Recognition and

Equivalence of Diplomas.

2011 - 2013 National Network for Continuing Education of Teachers in

Vocational and Technical School Education – CONCORD,

identification number: POSDRU/87/1.3/S/61397.

2012 - 2015 PNCDI II Partnerships in Priority Areas; contract no 223/2012,

Inquiry-Based Education in Science and Technology.

Developing partnerships In the framework of the international Erasmus LLP (Lifelong Learning Program):

- “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iasi Romania – University of Porto, Portugal,

Erasmus bilateral agreement in 2013, 2016, teachers and students mobility.

- “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iasi Romania - Université d' Avignon, France,

Erasmus bilateral agreement in 2013, 2014, teachers and students mobility.

- “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iasi Romania - Ege University, Ýzmir, Turkey, Erasmus bilateral agreement, 2007 - 2013, teachers and students mobility.

- “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iasi Romania - Université d'Artois, France, the

bilateral LLP (Lifelong Learning Program) Erasmus Program, 2008 - 2013, teachers and

students mobility.

- “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iasi Romania - Université d' Orléans, France,

Socrates Erasmus bilateral agreement in 2006, 2007, 2011, teachers and students mobility.

RESEARCH

The research philosophy of the MEDRES Lab is based on the principle of biorefinery

which was defined by the US Department of Energy as: “an overall concept of a processing

plant where biomass feedstock is converted and

extracted into a spectrum of valuable products” (US

Department of Energy 1997). The concept of biorefinery

involves biomass conversion processes and equipment

to produce fuels, heat/energy, biomaterials and bio

products.

Nowadays there is a growing consensus that the

sustainable development will only be realised through a

transition towards a biobased economy. In this

economy, the growth of consumption does not

automatically lead to a growing impact on the

environment. The challenge will be to develop

innovative methods for the efficient use of renewable

resources such as biomass. The application of

renewables based on biomass, the development of

clean production and smart materials may provide the

required solution pathways.

In a very general way the four biomass application

domains are Food (human), Feed (animal), Fuels and

Functional Materials. The last domain, that can include

fine chemicals, performance materials/composites and

fertilizers/bioremediation agents, plant growth

regulators, biocides and crop protection agents,

pharmaceutical, medicinal and cosmetics ingredients

are the most promising ones.

The conversion of biomass into energy or fuels has a

very long history and currently there are different

projects and companies involved at pilot and industrial

scale in the production of biofuels (bioethanol,

biobutanol) and also energy and power.

Ours research projects intend to approach the complex valorization of biomass from the bio-

products point of view. The economic and social importance of developing such products lies

in the fact that bioproducts can constitute a more eco friendly and healthy alternative to

chemically synthesized compounds. Novel chemicals and materials produced from biomass are

also currently available, but are much less developed at a commercial level compared with fuels.

From all the numerous valuable components that can be extracted from biomass,

phytochemicals are amongst the most desirable compounds due to their bioactive functions,

healing proprieties and health benefits. Polyphenolic compounds are a widespread group of

secondary metabolites found in all plants and represent the most desirable phytochemicals due

to their valuable properties and potential use as additives in food industry, cosmetics and

medicine and others fields (Ignat, I., Volf, I., Popa V.I., 2011).

The annual production of biomass is about 1.7-2.0 x 10

11 tons; however, only

6x109 tons are currently used

for food and non-food applications. Food applications are by far the most important (96.5-97 %). The remainder is used in non-food applications for example as feedstock for chemical industry. At present, less than 10% of the chemicals and raw materials offered by the chemical industry were generated out of biomass (Zoeblin H., Dictionary of Renewable Resources, Wiley-VCH: Weinheim, 2001). This data proves that only a small fraction of biomass is used in the industry and is given economic value. This leads to an inefficient use of natural resources, leading to higher costs and can have significant implications to global climate change. In recent years a special concern has been manifested towards “green chemistry” based on the use of new sources of biomass, including also wastes with the aim to obtain biologically active compounds which can be applied in different fields.

The extraction of polyphenols can represent the first step in biomass biorefining

In this context the research priorities of MED RES-Lab are:

development and characterization of renewable resources based on biomass;

complex processing of biomass using green chemistry principles;

isolation and characterization of secondary and main compounds from different

resources and their utilization in biological systems;

bioremediation of water (bio sorbents obtained from algae, water plants and agricultural

waste), of degraded land and poor crop production by specific plants and natural

products (algae, plant and industrial waste, compost, lignin and residual sludge,

agricultural wastes).

antioxidants and dyes for food and cosmetics; regulators of plant growth based on

natural products; antifungal and antibacterial products based on natural sources.

From economic standpoint separation and application of polyphenols bring several major advantages:

a more efficient use of resources and by-products resulting in more cost-

effective production cycles,

an alternative to dependence on depleting natural resources with fast growing

costs,

the development of a wider range of products for the growing number of eco-

conscious consumers,

offering alternatives to energy and resource intensive industrial products, bio-

products can benefit from economies of scale as they are integrated into

industrial processes.

Complementing the economic advantages there are important social and cultural

benefits:

bio-products, as part of a strive for a more efficient use of resources can provide

alternatives for the ever-growing human population,

bio-products promise a much healthier alternative, leading to a greater quality of

life and higher life expectancy,

society is currently becoming more conscious of its actions on the environment and

the research proposed can bring a smarter use of natural resources and also a

decrease of waste products, in the large picture, cost-effective alternatives can

bring a more harmonious development of society, a better environment and a

greater standard of living.

For these goals the team studies the opportunities to applies chemical and biochemical

techniques according with green chemistry and sustainable development concepts.

Research priorities

Development and characterization of

renewable resources based on biomass

Complex processing of biomass using green

chemistry principles (biofuels, energy and chemical products

based on biomass plant)

Isolation andcharacterization of secondary

and main compounds from different resources and their

utilization in biological systems

Bioremediationof degraded land and

poor crop production byspecific plants and natural

products (plant and industrial waste, compost,

lignin and residual sludge)

Regulators of plant growth based on

natural products; antifungal and antibacterial products based on natural

Antioxidants and dyes for food and

cosmetics

Research priorities

Development and characterization of

renewable resources based on biomass

Complex processing of biomass using green

chemistry principles (biofuels, energy and chemical products

based on biomass plant)

Complex processing of biomass using green

chemistry principles (biofuels, energy and chemical products

based on biomass plant)

Isolation andcharacterization of secondary

and main compounds from different resources and their

utilization in biological systems

Bioremediationof degraded land and

poor crop production byspecific plants and natural

products (plant and industrial waste, compost,

lignin and residual sludge)

Regulators of plant growth based on

natural products; antifungal and antibacterial products based on natural

Antioxidants and dyes for food and

cosmetics

BY-PRODUCTS RAW MATERIAL

CHEMICAL

PROCESSING

PULPDISSOLVING

PULPS

CELLULOSE

DERIVATIVES

ENZYMATIC

DEGRADATION

PAPER

• biobleaching

• degradation of waste

lignin with enzymes/

microorganisms

• biosensors

• mimetic catalysis

ENZYMATIC

BEATING AND

BONDING

ENZYMATIC

PROCESSING

WASTE PAPER

FERMENTATION

SUGARS

HEMICELLULOSES

POLYPHENOLS LIGNINS

MODIFICATION

PLANT GROWTH

STIMULATORS

BIODEGRADABLE

COMPOSITE

STRUCTURE

WASTE FIBRES

ENZYMATIC

HYDROLYSIS

BY-PRODUCTS RAW MATERIAL

CHEMICAL

PROCESSING

PULPDISSOLVING

PULPS

CELLULOSE

DERIVATIVES

ENZYMATIC

DEGRADATION

PAPER

• biobleaching

• degradation of waste

lignin with enzymes/

microorganisms

• biosensors

• mimetic catalysis

ENZYMATIC

BEATING AND

BONDING

ENZYMATIC

PROCESSING

WASTE PAPER

FERMENTATION

SUGARS

HEMICELLULOSES

POLYPHENOLS LIGNINS

MODIFICATION

PLANT GROWTH

STIMULATORS

BIODEGRADABLE

COMPOSITE

STRUCTURE

WASTE FIBRES

ENZYMATIC

HYDROLYSIS

The experience in the field allowed to elaborate an integrate and complex flow sheet for biomass

processing which can be customized according to the available resources.

Vegetable biomass

• Specific compounds

• Secondary

compounds

• Primary compounds

Extraction / separation

Specific compounds• Hydrocarbons

• Proteins

• Sugars

• Pigments

• Different active compounds

Secondary compounds• Hemicellulose + polyphenols

Primary compounds

• Lignocellulose

Extractionj / separation

hemicellulose,

polyphenols, cellulose,

lignocellulose

Direct application

Conversion

with keeping basic

Structural units

with destruction of

chemical structure

Modified primary,

secondary and specific

compounds

• Structural units

(monosaccharides,

phenols, aminoacids)

• Gas

• Liquids

• Solids

Raw materials for substitution of

petrochemicals products with high

chemical or energetically value

Direct application

Conversion

Vegetable biomass

• Specific compounds

• Secondary

compounds

• Primary compounds

Extraction / separation

Specific compounds• Hydrocarbons

• Proteins

• Sugars

• Pigments

• Different active compounds

Secondary compounds• Hemicellulose + polyphenols

Primary compounds

• Lignocellulose

Extractionj / separation

hemicellulose,

polyphenols, cellulose,

lignocellulose

Direct application

Conversion

with keeping basic

Structural units

with destruction of

chemical structure

Modified primary,

secondary and specific

compounds

• Structural units

(monosaccharides,

phenols, aminoacids)

• Gas

• Liquids

• Solids

Raw materials for substitution of

petrochemicals products with high

chemical or energetically value

Direct application

Conversion

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RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE

The general objective of the Lab is the continuous development of the instruments for research in

the field of sustainable and integrated management of resources as part of Gheorghe Asachi

Technical University of Iasi, a university with international impact, able to establish different

cooperation in national and international programs (due to existing experiences in environmental

sciences, environmental engineering and management, renewable and recycled resources, and

also due to existing and potential cooperation with different universities), in order to increase

Romanian universities visibility and to develop their participation in European and international

programs.

Lab 112 a - for basic operations in chemical and biochemical processes, equipped

with the following equipment:

- SFE supercritical fluid extractor 100 XW SFE system with accessories for conservation

extracts by lyophilization. It is used mainly for the separation of thermolabile natural products using

non-destructive technique, belonging to processes that occur at high pressure (HPE), based on the

strength of solvation of substances at temperatures and pressures higher than those corresponding

to the critical point. 29 x 102 x 57 cm (W x H x D) Weight: 28 kg with 100ml extraction vessel, flow

range: 0.01-24 ml / min with 2% accuracy, 10,000 psi working pressure, operating mode "constant

pressure "temperature range: ambient to 2000C ± 1.0

0 C, pre-heating of fluids, CO2 cylinder.

- Bioreactor Sartorius Biostat B + - compact equipment with its own control system specifically

for cell culture , fully automated process that allows four gas mixture to spray; system can be easily

upgraded for use in microbial cultures, separate rotameters intake and spray that allow easy

adjustment of the gas flow, gas composition is continuously controlled by DO and pH controller,

independent control of the fermentation vessel, automatic control gas mixture , graphic touch screen

totalizer with digital calibration for pumps and valves, stirring system (range: 20-2000 rpm) can be

adapted for all vessels UniVessel , pH recalibration, RS 232 serial interface for connection to balance

INFRASTRUCTURE

ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES

EQUIPMENTS AND APPLIENCES

CHEMICAL AND

STRUCTURAL CHARACTERISATION OF

RESOURCES

EFICIENT SEPARATION AND COMPONENTS

CHARACTERISATION

1. Biochemicals 2. Composites 3. Energy

1. Extractible materials 2. Acid/enzymatic

hydrolysis products 3. Fibrous rought materials Delignification

VEGETAL

RESOURCES

UPGRADING

1. Wood species (hardwood and softwood) 2. Annual plants/energetic

plants 3. Waste products from

agriculture and forestry

printer or PC. Sample vessel: glass bowl with round bottom cushion, total volume : 3 l working

volume : 0.6 - 2 liters , top of vertical stainless steel handles, stainless steel stand, detachable tray, 3

pots, filter intake and exhaust collection tube adjustable height, port of inoculation / addition , Pt100

temperature sensor, pH and DO electrode sensor foam and level 3 bottles of 250 ml, stirring rod,

impeller with 3 segments angle adjustable ventilation tubes and fittings.

- Photochem Analytic Jena - System for the determination of antioxidants and free radicals.

Measuring principle: photo chemoluminescence, excitation source: mercury lamp, covered with

maximum excitation at 351 nm phosphorus detector: Photomultiplier for extended range,

reproducibility: CV <2%, operation, control and evaluation of the curves via computer consumption:

30 VA, the system includes a computer and a printer. PC Pentium IV 3 GHz, 512MB RAM, 120 GB

HDD, 3.5 "FDD, DWD-RW, 17" Color Monitor.

- Digital analytical balance KERN ABJ 220-4M - internal calibration, RS232 C printer or PC

connection, GLP / ISO memory storage weighing and identification number, date and time, 3-stage

filtration of vibrations, maximum capacity 220 g, 0.1mg precision, repeatability 0.1 mg, stabilization

time 3 sec., ambient temperature 5-40 °C.

- Hettich rotofix 32 Universal Centrifuge - equipped with microprocessor and digital display for

parameter values during centrifugation, automatic rotor recognition, possibility setting time spin - max

timer programming. 99 min., rotation speed of 100 rpm increments, capacity 4 x 100 ml, rotation

speed of 6000 min-1 rpm, RCF 4186.

- Calcination furnace Nabertherm L3/11 / B170 - Stainless steel housing, high quality thermal

isolation, heat resistant ceramic tiles embedded protected from mechanical damage and easy to

replace; adjustable time for a heating pad, while adjusted to maintain the selected temperature,

thermocouple type K (1100°C).

- pH / ion meter - pH/mV ion - meter high performance graphic display and digital recording

function for measurements of pH, temperature and ion-selective, automatic reading (AutoRead),

condition for assessment and monitoring of electrode calibration intervals.

- Rotoevaporator - the rotational speed 20-270 rpm, adjusting the speed of height 18 mm/s, the

heating capacity of 1300 W, the temperature range of 20-180°C in heating bath, heating the accuracy

of ± 1 ° C diameter 240mm heating bath, bath volume 4.3 L, evaporation rate 1000 ml H2O/h, area

condensation 1200 cm2.

Lab 112b special room for biotehnological tests equipped with the following:

- Laboratory Autoclave VaporMatic 770/B - vertical autoclave fully equipped, enabling

microprocessor controlled temperature setting and time; running 2 programs: 121°C, 1 atm, 20 min,

134°C, 2 atm, 20 min., Sterilization cycle according to Pharmacopeea (10 min. heating at 100°C to

remove the air, heating for 20 minutes up to 121°C, sterilization, 30-60 minutes at 121°C, cooling to

100°C about 40 min., full cooling to room temperature), memory stage where accidental interruption

of power supply, protection in case of insufficient water.

- Laboratory vacuum cell and vacuum pump - 5x10-3

mbar vacuum obtained temperature range

0 - 200°C, vacuum pump in a vacuum oven box support - rate 1.7 m3 /h, 9 mba.

- Advanced Biosafety Cabinet class II - Air flow (a 200mm front opening) 485 m3 /h, the speed

front > 0.4 m/s, work area (width x depth x height) 1200 x 450 x 635 mm, noise level <62 dBA at 1 m

distance, work surface, stainless steel, standard Equipment: HEPA filters, two test filters (DOP test).

- Mass refractometer - Instrument for measuring liquid electrolyte concentration by determining the

refractive index. Accuracy 0.1% Brix, 0.0002 nD, LED illumination (590 nm) light and scale reading

via eye, measuring range 0-95% Brix, 1.3000-1.7000 nD, nD 0.0001 Resolution, 0.1 % brix, digital

thermometer: 0°C to 99°C, automatic temperature compensation, serial interface RS 232 -9600,

supply 100-220 V.

Lab. 111 analyzing and control room

- DIONEX Ultimate 3000 HPLC coupled with Thermo mass spectrometer - The HPLC -MS

is used in the separation and identification of biologically active compounds using a stationary phase

C18 column .MS - facilitates the identification of compounds and is used to elucidate the molecular

structure • diode -array detector - wave range 190-800 nm, Accuracy ± 1.0 nm wavelength , D2

calibration , verification with holmium oxide filter incorporated, Light Source - Deuterium and halogen

( tungsten ) .• Support for solvents - Capacity - 11 bottles of 1L, 2.5L or 5L , piping for degassing

paths - channel volume , maximum flow on a route - 12 mL /min , the optimum flow channel - ≤ 3.6

mL /min power - 15 -pin D- SUB Ultimate 300 pump or external power .• Analytical Pump LPG- 3400

quaternary A - Double Piston inserts , gradient : mixture under reduced pressure, flow rate from 200

to 10.000 assured /min, flow accuracy< 0.1 RSD at 1 mL / min , dosing accuracy <0.2 % SD 2 mL /

min , solvent degasser built 4-channel PC Connection USB hub with 3 inputs .• Analytical

Autosampler - Capacity 120 x 1.8 mL or 2.0 mL (standard ) methods In line split- loop injection ,

volume injected 1-90, injection volume precision RSD <0.25 %, washing needle injection - Foreign

before and / or after the injection , thermostatic autosampler (T version with thermostat) 4-45° C, vials

Support - Ability 2ml vials screw Connection PC USB with 3 inputs .• thermostatic column

compartment.

- Atomic absorption spectrophotometer GBS Avanta 3000 is used in order to determining the

concentration (ppb , ppm) of metal ions in solution.

Photometer - double beam spectrometer with background correction and absorption / flame emission.

MONOCROMATOR focal length of 333 mm diffraction grating with 1800 features/mm and the

wavelength range between 185-900 nm, double optimized; Automatic selection of the peak

wavelength and each lamp. Spectrum source hollow cathode lamps (HCL) mono element or

multielement with minimum operation duration 10,000 mA/h, programmable control flame. The

sample introduction in flame system- inert polymer mixing room, inert to acids, alkalis and organic

solvents. Safety Systems and shutter nebulizer pressure regulator, Safety System fluid level. Quickly

switch to facilitate shifting the graphite furnace; automatic adjustment of the burner head and graphite

furnace working. Software Windows XP, platform for multitasking. This controls the spectrometer

sample, introduction system, graphite furnace, furnace auto sampler. Graphite furnace with auto

power supply consists of head work and the automatic loading and sample preparation. The

assembly includes graphite tube and platform, mounted in a graphite shell fitted at the ends with

quartz windows. It can be used in addition inert gas (Argon) and auxiliary gas (nitrogen).

- UV- VIS Spectrometer - UV- Vis spectrophotometer double beam, with monochromator and

direct recording test report and reference signals and high speed scanning; monochromator in

Czerny -Turner mount put automatic in place the visible and UV spectral sources, Spectrometer fully

automated, controlled exclusively by software installed on an external computer, Windows XP

software package included, fully controls the functions of the spectrometer and accessories,

spectrometer is equipped standard with a 1x1 medium tanks.• Detectors (two) photodiodes with silica,

spectral range: 190-1100nm Wavelength accuracy :+/- 0.16 nm spectral band width, 1.5 nm

Photometric Accuracy : +/- 0.001 A (NIST 930D standard filter 0 - 0.5 A) , photometric accuracy : + / -

0.001 a ( NIST 930D filter standard 0 - 1.0 A ) wavelength reproducibility : +/- 0.05 nm, scanning

speed adjustable between: 60-3200 nm/min. Radiation source: tungsten - halogen lamp and

deuterium.

Images from the lab

TEAM

Staff members

Name Institution Academic Position

Irina Volf Gheorghe Asachi

Technical University of Iasi

Faculty of Chemical

Engineering and

Environmental Protection

Professor associate

iwolf@tuiasi.ro

inavolf@yahoo.com

Valentin I. Popa Gheorghe Asachi

Technical University of Iasi

Faculty of Chemical

Engineering and

Environmental Protection

Professor

vipopa@tuiasi.ro

vipopa15dece@yahoo.com

Post docs (ended)

Name Institution Projects Date

MATACHE Marius Bucarest University,

Romania

Bioaccumulation of heavy

metals in organisms of the

wetland Iron Gates

2012

ANDRAS Csaba Budapest University of

Technology and Economics,

Hungary,

Sapientia University

Miercurea Ciuc, Romania

Supercritical fluid

extraction of valuable oils

from thyme

2013

RAKOTO Nelly

Ghislaine

Antananarivo University,

Inorganic and Physical

Chemistry Department,

Madagascar

Elimination des éléments

traces métalliques des

eaux usées par les

plantes aquatiques

2013

UNGUREANU

Gabriela

University of Porto, Faculty of

Engineering, Portugal

Removal of metal

oxyanions from water by

macro algae biomass

2014

PhD Students

Name Work Date

Balas Anca Research on the influence of natural compounds with

aromatic structure on physiological processes in plants

2003-2007

Ungureanu Elena Biodegradation of cellolignin-based composites 2002-2007

Danaila Mihaela Influence of natural products with aromatic structure on

the development of microorganisms

2003-2008

Capraru Mirela Adina Modification of lignin by hydroximethylation and

epoxidation reactions

2005-2010

Ignat Ioana Separation, isolation and characterization methods of

bioactive polyphenolic compounds from different sources

of biomass,

co-tutelle with Patrrick Martin and Louis Chaveriat,

Université d'Artois, France

2008-2011

Stingu Alina Petronela Contributions on the role of polyphenolic compounds on

physiological processes in plants in different conditions of

ionic stress

co-tutelle Patrick Martin and Sebastian Rio, Université

d'Artois, France

2008-2011

Camelia Ciubota-Rosie Contributions to biomass recovery processes 2007-2011

Hainal Anca Roxana Polyphenolic products influence on metabolic processes

and development of microorganisms

cooperation with prof. Petro Buzini, Perugia University,

Italy

2008-2011

Lupea Vasiliu Marius

Florin

Studies on the use of seaweed as a low cost sorbent for the

removal of metal ions from wastewater

2008- 2012

Bocancea Ioana

Petronela

Studies on the influence of some compounds of plant

origin on the development of microorganisms under

stress

cooperation with Tuscia University, Viterbo, Italy

2009-2012

Tanase Corneliu Contributions to the influence of natural products on key

physiological processes in plant systems

2010-2013

Ghitescu Roxana

Elena

Comparative study concerning polyphenols extraction using different techniques

2011-2014

Bujor Oana Crina Study concerning extraction and characterization of polyphenols from different forestry species co-tutelle Olivier Dangles, Université d'Avignon, France

2012-2015

Talmaciu Adina Contributions to the elucidation of the mechanisms involved in the polypehnols extraction using non conventional techniques

2013-2016

OUTPUTS

Books / Book Chapters

Ignat, I., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2013, Analytical Methods of Phenolic Compounds, in Natural Products, K.G. Ramawat, J.M. Merillon (eds.), DOI 10.1007/978-3-642-22144-6_56, Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg, ISBN 978-3-642-22143-9.

Popa V.I., Volf, I., 2013, Experimental Research Strategy (180p), Politehnium, Iaşi, ISBN 978-973-621-403-5 (in Romanian).

Popa, V. I., Stingu, A., Volf,I., 2011, Lignins and Polyphenols in Bioremediation, In Bioremediation Technology, Recent Advances, M.H. Fulekar ed., Springer, 100-135, ISBN 978-90-481-3677-3.

Volf, I., 2011, Products and Energy from Renewable Sources (234p), Ecozone, Iaşi, ISBN 978-973-7645-84-5 (in romanian).

Volf, I., 2007, Elements of biotechnology and bioremediation (275p.), PIM, Iaşi, ISBN 973-716-768-6. (in romanian).

Volf,I., Teodosiu,C., 2007, Environmental Project Management (200p.), Politehnium, Iaşi, ISBN 978-973-621-180-5. (in romanian).

Volf, I., 2005, New yeast strains for biotechnological processes (219 p.), Junimea, Iaşi, ISBN 973-37-1034-2 (in romanian).

Volf, I., ed., 2005, Ecotehnologii, Ecoproduse, Ecoservicii, Ecozone, Iaşi, ISBN 973-7645-13-8.

Volf, I., 2004, Biotechnology in environmental protection. Control techniques, practical and numerical applications (167p.), Cermi, Iaşi, ISBN 973-667-088-0 (in romanian).

Tudose (Volf), I., 2003, Biomass as a source of biologically active compounds, In Advances in Biotechnology, Popa, V.I., ed., Sedcom Libris, Iaşi, ISBN 973-8028-79-5 (in romanian).

E.M.Ignat, L.Ignant, E.Stoica, V.I.Popa and C.Ciobanu, 2007, Chapter III - Composites structure based on polymers and lignin in Composites and polymeric nanocomposites, Edits: C.Ciobanu and C. Koncsag, Ed. Pim, Iasi, 100-160, ISBN 978-973-716-779-8 I.Spiridon and V.I.Popa, 2008, Hemicelluloses: major sources, properties and applications, in Monomers, Polymers and Composites from Renewable Resources, Ed. Mohamed Belgacem and Alessandro Gandini, Elsevier, 289-304. T. Malutan and V.I.Popa, 2008, Chemistry of cellulose, Ed. Politehnium, Iasi, ISBN 978-973-621-230-7. V.I. Popa, C.Agache. T.Malutan, M.I.Totolin and G.Cazacu, 2010, Chapter I –Theoretical aspects concerning structure and reactivity of lignin, in Lignin as a source of raw material and energy, Edits. G.Cazacu and M.Totolin, Ed.Pim, Iasi, 3-72, ISBN 978-606-520-712-7. V.I.Popa, T.Malutan and G.Cazacu, 2010, Chapter II- Lignin-raw material source with high potential of valorification, in Lignin as a source of raw material and energy, Edits. G.Cazacu and M.Totolin, Ed.Pim, Iasi, ISBN 978-606-520-712-7, p.73-87. V.I.Popa, T.Malutan and G.Cazacu, 2010, Chapter III, Identification of secondary raw materials accessible to chemical and biochemical modification, in Lignin as a source of raw material and energy, Edits. G.Cazacu and M.Totolin, Ed.Pim, Iasi, ISBN 978-606-520-712-7, p.88-116. N.Popa, R.Todirica, G.Aniculaesei and V.I.Popa, 2010, Chapter II-Composites materials based on lignin products, in Addesives, compozite materials and other applications based on lignin, Edits. M.I.Totolin and G.Cazacu, Edit.Pim, Iasi, p.127-154, ISBN 978-606-520-740-0.

M.I.Totolin, M. Dumitru and V.I.Popa, 2010, The utilization of lignin in agriculture, in Addesives, compozite materials and other applications based on lignin, Edits. M.I.Totolin and G.Cazacu, Edit.Pim, Iasi, p.127-154, ISBN 978-606-520-740-0, p.243-260. D.Ciolacu and V.I.Popa, 2010, Cellulose allomorphs-overview and perspectives, in Cellulose: structure and properties, derivatives and industrial uses, Eds. A.Lejeune and T.Deprez, Nova Publishers, p.1-38, ISBN: 978-1-60876-388-7. E.Ungureanu, O.Ungureanu and V.Popa, 2010, Biodegradation of composites structures based on lignocellulosic materials, Ed. Pim, Iasi, ISBN: 978-606-13-0072-3. Valentin Popa, Editor, 2011, Polysaccharides in medicinal and pharmaceutical applications, Smithers Rapra, ISBN: 978-1-84735-436-5.

Severian Dumitriu (founder editor) and Valentin Popa (editor), 2013, Polymeric Biomaterials (2vols), Structure and function (vol I); Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Applications (vol II), CRC Press/Taylor& Francis, ISBN-13:978-1420094725 | Edition: 3.

Georgeta Cazacu, Mirela Capraru and Valentin I.Popa, 2013, Advances Concerning Lignin Utilization in New Materials, in Advances in Natural Polymers, Advanced Structured Materials 18, Eds. S. Thomas et al. 10.1007/978-3-642-20940-6_8, Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.

Valentin I.Popa, Editor, Pulp production and processing: from papermaking to high-tech products, Smithers Rapra, 2013, 520 p. ISBN-978-1-84735-633- 8 (hardback); ISBN-978-1-84735 - 634-5 (softback); ISBN-978-1-84735- 637-6 (ebook).

Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles (ISI Thomson Reuters)

Volf, I., Ignat, I., Neamtu, M., Popa,V.I., 2014, Thermal stability, antioxidant activity, and photo-oxidation of natural polyphenols, Chemical Papers, 68, (1) 121–129, DOI: 10.2478/s11696-013-0417-6.

Trinca L.C, Căpraru A.M., Arotaritei D., Volf I., Chiruta C., 2014, Monitoring methods and predictive models for water status in Jonathan apples, Food Chemistry, Vol. 144, 80-86.

Tanase, C., Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2013, Assessment of the synergistic regulator action of deuterium depleted water and spruce bark extract on sunflower (Helyanthus annuus L.) crops, Industrial Crops and Products, (manuscript no. INDCRO-D-12-01198), under review.

Ene S., Teodosiu C., Robu B., Volf, I., 2013, Water footprint assessment in the winemaking industry: a case study for a Romanian medium size production plant, Journal of Cleaner Production, 43, 122-135, DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2012.11.051.

Ignat I., Radu D.,Volf, I.,Pag A., Popa, V.I., 2013, Antioxidant and antibacterial activities of some natural polyphenols, Cellulose Chem. Technol., 47 (5-6), 387-399.

Tanase. C., Volf I., Popa, V.I., 2013, Assessment of the sinergic regulator action of spruce bark extract and deuterium depleted water on maize (Zea Mays L.) crops, Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, vol.12, 6, 1535-1542.

Tanase, C., Volf, I., Vintu, S., Gradinaru R., Popa, V.I., 2013, Potential applications of wastes from energy and forestry industries in plant tissue culture, Cellulose Chemistry and Technology, 47 (7-8), 553-563.

Balan, C., Volf, I., Bilba, D., 2012, Chromium (VI) removal from aqueous solutions by Purolite base anion-exchange resins with gel structure, (manuscript no. CICEQ_3600), Chemical Industry & Chemical Engineering Quarterly, accepted, on line.

Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., Gostin, I., 2012. New approaches concerning the utilization of natural amendments in cadmium phytoremediation, Industrial Crops and Products, 35, (1), 53–60.

Mihailescu Amalinei, R. L., Miron, A., Volf, I., Paduraru, C., Tofan, L., 2012. Investigations on the feasibility of Romanian pine bark wastes conversion into a value-added sorbent for Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions, BioResources,7 (1), 148-160.

Hainal, A.R., Capraru, A.M., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2012, Lignin as a carbon source for the cultivation of some Rhodotorula species, Cellulose Chemistry and Technology, 46 (1-2), 87-96.

Volf, I., Stingu, A., Popa, V.I., 2012, New natural chelating agents with modulator effects on copper phytoextraction, Environmental Engineering and Management Journal , Vol.11, No. 2, 487-491.

Balan, C., Volf, I., Bulai, P., Bilba, D., Macoveanu, M., 2012, Removal of Cr (VI) from aqueous environment using peat moss: equilibrium study, Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, Vol.11, No. 1, 21-28.

Hainal, A.R., Diaconescu,R., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2012, Studies concerning some possibilities of obtaining carotenoid pigments by cultivation of Rhodotorula spp in the presence of Asclepias syriaca extracts, Romanian Biotechnological Letters, Vol. 17, No. 2, 7086-7092.

Tofan, L., Paduraru, C., Volf, I., Toma, O., 2011. Waste of rapeseed from biodiesel production as a potential biosorbent for heavy metal ions, BioResources 6, (4), 3727-3741.

Tofan, L., Paduraru, C, Volf, I., Wenkert, R., 2011, Comparative study concerning the kinetic and

thermodynamic description of some heavy metal ions sorption on fly ash, Journal of Optoelectronics and Advanced Materials, Vol. 13, No. 7, 896 – 900.

Ignat, I., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, A critical review of methods for characterization of polyphenolic compounds in fruits and vegetables, Food Chemistry, 126, 4, 1821–1835.

Ignat, I., Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Characterization of grape seed aqueous extract and possible applications in biological systems, Cellulose Chemistry and Technology, 45, (3-4), 205-209.

Hainal, A.R., Ignat, I., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Transformation of polyphenols from biomass by some yeast species, Cellulose Chemistry and Technology, 45, (3-4), 211-219.

Ignat, I., Neagu, V., Bunia, I., Paduraru, C., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, A comparative study on adsorption of gallic acid onto polymeric adsorbents with amine functional groups, Cellulose Chem. Technol., 45, (3-4), 251-256.

Tofan, L., Paduraru, C., Volf, I., 2011, Maize bran as a low-cost resource for Cu(II) ions removal, Cellulose Chem. Technol., 45 (3-4), 275-280.

Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Spruce bark extract as modulator in rape plant copper bioaccumulation, Cellulose Chem. Technol., 45 (3-4), 281-286.

Stingu, A., Stanescu, I., Volf, I., Popa,V.I., 2011, Hyper accumulation of cadmium in maize plant (Zea Mays), Cellulose Chem. Technol., 45 (3-4), 287-290.

Carja, G., Dranca, S., Husanu, E., Volf, I., 2009, Iron containing anionic clays supported with iron and cerium oxides as catalysts for Nox reduction, Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, vol. 8, (3), 553-557.

Stangu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2009, Physiological changes in seedling germination and plant growth under chemical stress conditions, Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, 8, (6), 1309-1313.

Ciubota-Rosie, C., Diaconescu, R., Volf , I., Macoveanu, M., 2009, Modeling the extraction process of oil from seeds of White Mustard (Sinapis alba), Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, 8,(6), 1429-1432.

Suteu, D., Volf, I., Lupu, L., Teodosiu, C., Ioan, C., 2009, A social inquiry assessment of a new water and wastewater disinfection device, Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, 8, (6), 1471-1478.

Stingu, I., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2009, Study of cooper and cadmium accumulation by bean, Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, 8, (5), 1247-1252.

Leonte, C., Vatavu, R., Robu, T., Volf, I., 2009, The carbohydrates synthesis in Calendula Officinalis L. leaves influenced by some mutagen substances, Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, 8, (5), 1287-1291.

Popa,V.I., Dumitru, M., Volf, I., N. Anghel, 2008, Lignin and polyphenols as allelochemicals. Industrial Crops and Products, vol.27, issue 2, 144 – 149.

Volf, I., Toma, I., Toma, C., Popa, V.I., Popescu, M., 2006, Aromatic Compounds from Wood as Regulating Agents for Grafting Processes, Cellulose Chem. Technol., 40 (1-2), 13-18.

Volf, I., Mamaliga, I., Popa, V.I.,2006, Active Principia with Antioxidant Character from Vegetal By-products. II Equilibrium Study of the Polyphenolic Compounds Extraction from Wood of Vitis sp., Cellulose Chem. Technol., 40 (3-4), 211-215.

Popa, V.I., Volf, I., 2006, Green Chemistry and Sustainable Development, Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, vol.5, (4), 545-558.

Suteu,D., Volf, I., Macoveanu, M., 2006, Ligno-cellulosic Materials for Wastewater Treatment, Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, vol. 5, nr.2, 119-134.

Dănăilă, M., Popa, V.I., Volf, I., 2006, The effect of adding natural polyphenolic compounds on yeast fermentation and wine quality. Romanian Biotechnological Letters, vol. 11, no.4, 2833-2840.

Volf, I., Robu, B., Ciobanu, O., 2004, The monitoring of aluminum concentration in water and fresh food in order to estimate the risks on human health, Environmental Engineering and Management Journal, vol.3, no.3, 313-322.

Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2004, Obţinerea unor principii active cu caracter antioxidant din subproduse vegetale. I. Studiul procesului de extractie a compuşilor polifenolici din lemn de Vitis sp. Revista de Chimie, vol.55 (9), 707-710.

National Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles (indexed in International Data Bases)

Ghitescu, R. E., Ignat, I., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2012, Extraction and Identification of Bioactive Compounds Using Non-Destructive Separation Techniques, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iasi, Tom LVIII,(LXII), Fasc.1, 49-56.

Tarabuta, I. P., Volf, I., Popa,V.I., 2012, Total Phenolic Index Methods Used in the Present Scientific Literature, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iasi, Tomul LVIII (LXII), Fasc.1,149-156.

Hainal, A.R., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Influence of Copper Ions in Aqueous Extracts of Vitis Vinifera Grape Seeds on the Development of Rhodotorula Mucilaginosa Yeast, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iaşi, Section Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Tome 57 (3), 205-211.

Hainal, A.R., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Influence of Aqueous Extract from the Bark of Picea Abies on Development of a Yeast Species Rhodotorula Spp, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Jassy, Section Chemistry and Chemical, Engineering, 2011, Tome 57 (1), 43 – 51.

Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Challenge of Using Natural Polyphenolic Extracts in Bioremediation, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iaşi, Section Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, 57 (2), 11 – 19.

Ignat, I., Volf,I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Isolation and Characterization of Polyphenols from Spruce Wood Bark, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iaşi, Section Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, 2011, Tome 57 (2), 117 – 125.

Tanase, C., Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa,V.I., 2011, The influence of spruce bark aqueous extract in combination with deuterium depleted water (ddw) on Glycine max L. plant, Scientific Papers, Horticulture Series, vol. 54. (1), 59 – 65.

Tanase, C., Hainal, A.R., Ignat, I., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Development of Rhodotorula yeast strain under the influence of polyphenolic compounds in the presence of copper ions, Scientific Papers, Horticulture Series, vol. 54. (1), 109-115.

Tanase, C., Stingu A., Volf I., Popa V.I., 2011, Deuterium depleted water and spruce bark extract - bioregulators for maize and rape plants, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iaşi, Section Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Tome 57, (2), 89–98.

Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I, 2010, On the possibilities of using natural bioactive compounds as plant growth regulator, Scientific Papers, Horticulture Series, vol. 53. (1), 71-77.

Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I, 2010, Bioaccumulation of heavy metal in oat plant under polyphenolic compounds treatment, Scientific Papers, Horticulture Series, vol. 53. (1), 77-83.

Tofan, L., Păduraru, C., Volf, I., Bălan, C., 2010, Removal of lead (II) from aqueous solution by sorption on natural hemp fibers, Scientific Papers, Agronomy Series, vol. 53, (1), 150-152.

Tofan, L., Păduraru, C., Volf, I., Bălan, C., 2010, Kinetic and thermodynamic profile of Pb (II) sorption by untreated hemp fibers, Scientific Papers, Agronomy Series, vol. 53, (1), 146-149.

Tofan, L., Păduraru, C., Volf, I., 2010, Comparative study concerning the retention of some heavy metal ions on hemp fibers, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iasi, series Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, tome LVI, (1), 137-145.

Ignat,I., Stangu,A., Volf, I., Popa,V.I., 2009, Natural bioactive compounds as plant growth regulators. Scientific Papers, series Agronomy, vol.52, (1), 187-192.

Stingu, A., Ignat,I., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2009, Spruce bark aqueous extracts as modulator in cooper induced stress, Scientific Papers, series Agronomy, vol.52, (1) , 271-276.

Tofan, L., Paduraru, C., Volf, I., 2009, Sorption kinetics and thermodynamics for the removal of lead (II) ions from aqueous solutions on thermal power plant ash, Scientific Papers, series Agronomy, vol.52, (1), 512-517.

Tofan,L., Paduraru, C., Volf, I., 2009, Concentration of Cd (II) trace amounts from large volumes of aqueous samples on chemically modified hemp fibers, Scientific Papers, series Agronomy, vol.52, (1), 506-511.

Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2009, Chestnuts (Castanea sativa) extracts-a potential plant growth regulator, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iasi, tomul LV (LIX), fasc. 4, 69-77.

Hainal, A.R., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2009, Regarding the influence of Asclepias Syriaca aqueous extracts in the development of a Rhodotorula spp. strain yeast, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iasi, tomul LV (LIX), fasc. 4, 95 -102.

Stingu, A.,Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2009, Study of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) response to elevated level of cadmium and copper ions, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iasi, tomul LV (LIX), ( 4), 115-124.

Ignat, I., Fauduet, H., Bostyn, S., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2009, Study on isolation and characterization of some polyphenols from agroindustrial by products, Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iasi, tomul LV (LIX), (4), 199 – 208.

Suteu, D., Volf, I., Rusu, G., 2006, Séparation des ions métalliques polluante de l’eau avec des matériaux naturels a base de lignine et de cellulose. Scientific Study & Research Chemistry, Biotechnology, Food Industry, vol. VII, no.2, 435-443.

Dănăilă, M., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2006, Natural polyphenolic compounds–modulators of yeast fermentation activities. Bulletin of the Polytechnic Institute of Iasi, tom 52, (3-4), 129-136.

National Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles

Tanase, C., Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, The effect of spruce bark polyphenols extract in combination with deuterium depleted water (DDW) on Glycine max L. and Helianthus annuus L. development. Analele Stiintifice ale Universitatii’Alexandru Ioan Cuza” din Iasi (serie noua), 12, (3), 115-120, ISSN:1582-3571.

Hainal, A. R., Ignat, I., Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2009, The influence of some natural polyphenols on Rhodotorula spp. growth in the presence of copper ions, Metal Elements in Environment, Medicine and Biology, tome IX, Romanian Academy, 79-84.

Stangu, A., Ignat, I., Hainal, A., Volf, I., Popa,V.I., 2009, Behavior of tomato plant during cultivation in the presence of copper in forest and sandy soils, Metal Elements in Environment, Medicine and Biology, tome IX, Romanian Academy, 90-94.

Volf, I., Suteu, D., 2008, Researches concerning water disinfection using a new technique based on UV radiation, Bulletin of the Transylvania University of Brasov, vol. 15 (50) – series B, ISSN 1223 – 964X, Special Issue No.1 Vol. II, ISBN 978–973–598–392–5, 711-718.

Lazar, L., Volf, I., Suteu, D., 2008, Environmental pollution reduction through SCR-deNOx treatment of the gases resulted from waste incineration, Bulletin of the Transylvania University of Brasov, vol. 15 (50) – series B, ISSN 1223 – 964X, Special Issue No.1 Vol. II, ISBN 978–973–598–392–5, 537-544.

Conference Proceeding Publications

International Tanase, C., Vintu, S., Volf, I., Popa, V. I., 2012, Potential applications of wastes from energy and forestry industry in plant tissue culture, COST Action FP0901, Analytical tools for biorefinery, August, 30-31, Helsinki, Finland, 23-25. Stingu, A., Ignat, I., Volf, I., Popa,V.I., 2012, Improving phytoremediation process by using Picea abies and Aesculus hipocastanum residues, 22nd Annual International Conference on Soil, Water, Energy, & Air, March, 19-22, San Diego, California, USA . Ignat, I., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Characterization of extractives from some raw materials processed by biorefining, COST Action FP0901 Analytical tools for biorefinery, January, 25-26, Paris, France. Ignat, I., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Assessment on phenolic profile of hawthorn (Crategus spp.)extracts, Proceedings of The third Nordic Wood Biorefinery Conference, March, 22-24, Stockholm, Sweden. Popa, V.I., Stingu, A., Volf, I., 2011, New directions in using natural bioactive compounds from grape seeds extract as natural amendment in heavy metal contaminant soil, Proceedings of The third Nordic Wood Biorefinery Conference, March, 22-24, Stockholm, Sweden, 379-380. Popa, V.I., Hainal, A., Volf, I., 2011, Influence of lignin products on the development of yeast strains Rhodotorula spp., Proceedings of The third Nordic Wood Biorefinery Conference, March, 22-24, Stockholm, Sweden, 385-386. Stingu, A., Popa, V.I., Ignat, I., Volf, I., 2011, Phenolics profile of Aesculus hippocastanum extract and possibilities to use them in phyto remediation process, Proceedings of Italic 6, Tuscia University, Viterbo, Italy, September 5-8, 133-136, ISBN 978-88-95688-65-7. Ignat, I., Neamtu, M., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Stability of plant polyphenols against UV radiation, Proceedings of Italic 6, Tuscia University, Viterbo, Italy, September 5-8, 141-145.

Hainal, A.R., Popa, V.I., Volf, I., 2011, Study of interaction between copper ions and aqueous extracts from the bark of Picea abies in the culture of Rhodotorula specie, Proceedings of Italic 6, Tuscia University, Viterbo, Italy, September 5-8, 353-356.

Ignat, I., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2010, L’écorce d’épicéa- source naturelle de composes polyphenoliques, Actes du Sixième Colloque Franco-roumain de Chimie Appliquée, CoFrRoCa , Orléans, France, 158-160.

Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2010, Ressources végétales comme amendements dans les processus de biorestauration, Acte du Sixième Colloque Franco-roumain de Chimie Applique- CoFrRoCa, Orléans, France, 173-176.

Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2010, New approaches concerning the utilization of natural compounds in bioremediation, Proceedings of the 11

th European Workshop on Lignocellulosics and Pulp, 16-19 August

2010, Hamburg, Germany, 185-188.

Popa, V.I., Ignat, I., Volf, I., 2010, A comparison concerning separation and characterization of polyphenols from spruce wood bark, Proceedings of the 11

th European Workshop on Lignocellulosics and

Pulp, Hamburg, Germany, 529-532.

Stingu, A., Volf I., Popa,V.I., 2010, Bioaccumulation of Cadmium under Polyphenolic Compounds Treatment, The 20t

h International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water, and Energy, The Association for

Environmental Health & Sciences, (AEHS) Foundation, 13-15 March, San Diego, California, SUA. Stingu, A., Volf, I., Robu, I., Popa, V.I., 2010, Phytoremediation potential of Brassica napus in heavy metal polluted environment, International Conference on Environmental Pollution and Clean/Phytoremediation, 16-19 June, Pisa, Italy. Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2010, Natural bioactive compounds in copper bioremediation, DepoTech Konferenz, November 3-5, Montanuniversitat Leoben, Austria. Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2010, Hyper accumulation of cadmium in maize plant (Zea mays), Proceedings of The 14

th International Symposium on Cellulose Chemistry and Technology, 8-10

September, Iasi, Romania, 163-167. Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2010, The influence of natural polyphenolic extract in plant copper bioaccumulation, Proceedings of The 14

th International Symposium on Cellulose Chemistry and

Technology,8-10 September, Iasi, Romania, 334–339. Hainal, A. R., Ignat, I., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2010, Transformation of polyphenolic products from biomass by some yeast species, Proceedings of The 14

th International symposium on Cellulose Chemistry and

Technology, 8-10 September, Iasi, Romania. Tofan, L., Păduraru, C., Volf, I., 2010, Low-cost resources such as maize bran for Cu(II) ions removal, The 14

th International Symposium on Cellulose Chemistry and Technology, 8-10 September, Iasi, Romania.

Cailean, D., Teodosiu, C., Volf, I., Ciobanu, B., 2008, Occurrence and associated risk of nitrates/nitrites in the ground waters from the north-eastern part of Romania, Exposure and risk assessment of chemical Pollution, Subseries NATO Security through Science, Series – C: Environmental Security, Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg New York, ISI Proceedings, 415-429.

Volf, I., Badea, C., Ciobanu, B., Carauşu, C., 2008, New prototype equipment with UV radiation for water purification processes, Annals of DAAAM for 2008& Proceedings of The 19th INTERNATIONAL DAAAM SYMPOSIUM "Intelligent Manufacturing & Automation: Focus on Next Generation of Intelligent Systems and Solutions", Viena, Austria, 1503-1506.

Popa, V.I., Volf, I., 2007, Green chemistry and sustainable development, Proceedings of the 8th Forum of ILI – International Lignin Institute, May 10-12, Rome, Italy, 52-56.

Danaila, M., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2007, Influence of polyphenols on the biosynthesis of carotenoids, Proceedings of the 8th Forum of ILI – International Lignin Institute, May 10-12, Rome, Italy,105-109.

Danaila, M., Volf, I., Popa,V.I., Popa, M.I., 2007, Natural antioxidants from agro industrial wastes. Sources, separation and practical implications. The 8th Forum of ILI – International Lignin Institute, May 10-12, Rome, Italy, 67-71.

Popa, V.I., Anghel, N., Danaila, M., Volf, I., 2007, Natural polyphenolic compounds. Structure, bioavailability and microbial interactions, The 8th Forum of ILI – International Lignin Institute, May 10-12, Rome, Italy, 97-101.

Frunză, M., Hulea, V., Volf, I., Dănăilă, M., Dumitriu, E., Popa, M.I., 2006, Matériaux lamellaires hybrides contenant des polyphenols. Le Quatrième Colloque Franco-roumain de Chimie Applique, 28 juin-2 juillet Clermont-Ferrand, France, 92-94.

Sutea, D., Volf, I., Rusu, G., 2006, Séparation des substances polluantes de l éau avec des matériaux naturels a base de lignine et de cellulose, Le Quatrième Colloque Franco-roumain de Chimie Applique, 28 juin-2 juillet, Clermont-Ferrand, France, 263-265.

Suteu, D., Rusu, G., Volf, I., 2006, Matériaux cellulosiques fonctionnalises avec des colorants réactifs et des ions métalliques, Le Quatrième Colloque Franco-Roumain de Chimie Applique, 28 juin-2 juillet, Clermont-Ferrand, France, 431-433.

Popa, V.I., Volf, I., Anghel, N., Dumitru,M., 2006, Lignin and polyphenols as allelochemicals, The 7th International Lignin Institute Forum, 27-28 April, Barcelona, Spain, 67-71.

Volf,I., Robu, B., Popescu, M., Macoveanu, M., 2005, Key environmental risk factors and impact consideration issues for alcoholic beverages industry. Forum proceedings of the 3rd International Conference Ecological Chemistry, 20-21 may, Chisinau, Moldova, 111-122.

Volf,I., Stoica, G., Savin, C., Moisii, A., 2004, Selection of some strains of the yeast flora of the Cotnari area with practical implications in the wine manufacturing biotechnology, Materials of the International Conference InWine’ 2004, Chisinau, Moldova, 151-156.

Popa, V.I., Tudose (Volf), I., Anghel, N., 2000, Influence of polyphenols and lignin products on the biosynthesis processes, Fifth International Forum International Lignin Institute, september 7-8, Lausanne, Switzerland, 1-12.

Tudose (Volf), I., Popa, V.I., 2000, Plants regulators from stems of Vitis Vinifera, Forum proceedings of the Sixth European Workshop on Lignocellulosics and Pulp, Bordeaux, France, 633-636.

Tudose (Volf), I., Damian, D., Anghel, N., Paşa, R., Popa, V.I, 2000, Recovery of vegetable wastes from Vitis sp. in way to improve the cultivation of yeast. Practical implications. Scientific papers of International Symposium: Prospects of the 3-rd Millennium Agriculture, 24-25 November, Cluj Napoca, Romania, 259-266.

National

Badea, C., Volf, I., Teodosiu, C., Zagan, R., 2008, Advanced research concerning the elimination techniques of microbiological agents in water purification processes with UV radiation, Inventics-Performance and Technical Creativity Inventica 2008. Editura Performantica, Iasi.

Teodosiu, C., Volf, I., Lupu, L., 2006, Selection of recycling wastewater process alternatives. Technical and economical evaluation, International Conference of Environmental Engineering and Management ICEEM 03, 23-25 sept., Iaşi, Romania.

Volf, I., Damian, D., 2005, Valorificarea subproduselor industriei vinicole. Antioxidanţi naturali pentru produse alimentare, Simpozionul ştiinţific internaţional „Horticultura- ştiinţă, calitate, diversitate, armonie” Universitatea de Stiinţe Agricole şi Medicină Veterinară, 28 mai, Iaşi, Romania.

Tudose (Volf), I., Volf, O., Corduneanu, L., 2001, Îmbunătăţirea performanţelor producţiei agroalimentare prin asistenţă financiara SAPARD, Sesiunea Jubiliara a Facultăţii de Horticultura, USAMV Iasi, 6-7 septembrie, anul XXXXIV – vol. 2, nr.44. Seria Horticultura, 19-23.

Unrefereed Journal Articles Ghitescu, R.E,.Ignat, I, Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Extraction and identification of bioactive compounds from blackcurrants fruits, Earth Day Posters Session http://www.ipst.gatech.edu/faculty/ragauskas_art/bio_ragauskas_art.html Tanase, C, Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2011, Deuterium depleted water and spruce bark polyphenols extract implicated in Zea mays L. plant growth and development. Earth Day Posters Session, http://www.ipst.gatech.edu/faculty/ragauskas_art/bio_ragauskas_art.html Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2010, Chestnuts (Castanea Sativa) extracts – a potential plant growth regulator, Earth Day Posters Session, http://www.ipst.gatech.edu/faculty_new/faculty_bios/ragauskas/bio_ragauskas_art.html Stingu, A., Volf, I., Popa, V.I., 2010, Bioaccumulation of cadmium under polyphenols compound treatment, Earth Day Posters Session, http://www.ipst.gatech.edu/faculty_new/faculty_bios/ragauskas/bio_ragauskas_art.html

Popa, A.M, Volf, I., 2005, Short assessment on the non-toxicity and other antioxidant properties of some compounds with polyphenolic structure, RSCC Magazine, vol. 5, nr. 1, 29-34.

Volf, I., Savin, C., Stoica, G., 2004, Selectarea şi testarea potenţialului criofil al unor tulpini de Saccharomyces ellipsoideus izolate din podgoria Iaşi, centrul viticol Copou, Academia de Stiinţe Agricole şi Silvice, Anale I.C.D.V.V, vol. XVII, 256 – 262.

Tudose (Volf), I., Popa, V.I., Savin, C., Damian, D., 2004, Studiul proprietăţilor antimicrobiene a unor extracte polifenolice obtinute din subproduse vegetale rezultate în industria viti-vinicolă, Academia de Stiinţe Agricole şi Silvice, Anale I.C.D.V.V., vol. XVII, 361-368, 2004.

Tudose (Volf), I., Damian, D., Popa, V.I., 2004, Studiu privind utilizarea unor compuşi polifenolici separaţi din materii prime vegetale ca sursă de carbon pentru levuri. Academia de Stiinţe Agricole şi Silvice, Anale I.C.D.V.V., vol. XVII, 353-361.

Tudose (Volf), I., Popa, A.M., Popa, V.I., 2003, The separation, characterisation and valorification of some polyphenolic products with antiradicalic proprieties from grape seeds, RSCC Magazine, vol. 3, nr. 2, 25-28.

SERVICES AVAILABLE:

Chemical and biochemical processes and basic operations that allow:

Chemical characterization of various resources: deciduous species and coniferous tree,

annual plants, wastes and by-products, energy crops;

Structural, anatomical and morphological characterization of different sources of biomass;

Establishment of procedures for primary and secondary chemical components separation;

Studies on the reactivity of chemical components;

Possibilities for extraction, separation, concentration and fermentation processes.

Testing by biotechnological methods:

Testing of chemical and biochemical directions of use for separated components;

Evaluation of chemical and energetic potential of principal and secondary components;

Evaluation of the toxicity of chemicals;

Cultures of microorganisms, plant cells and tissues;

Complex physical and chemical analysis:

complex HPLC analysis coupled with MS spectrometer, AAS spectrometry for heavy metals determination, UV-VIS spectrophotometer analysis for liquid samples.

Consulting and training in the field of complex processing of biomass, biorefining and

bioproducts.

Documentation and research strategy

Master in science, PhD programs and post doc stages.

CONTACT

Irina VOLF Professor Associate "Gheorghe Asachi" Technical University of Iasi URL: www.tuiasi.ro

Environmental Engineering and Management Department 73 Prof. dr. docent D. Mangeron Street, 700050-Iasi, Romania Phone: 0040-232-278683 ext. 2250 Fax: 0040-232-271311 E-mail: iwolf@tuiasi.ro inavolf@yahoo.com

http://www.ch.tuiasi.ro/cercetare/PNCDI/MEDRES-LAB/index.php