Contact
Biography
I joined the University of Nottingham in August 2012 following completion of PhD and post-doctoral research at the University of Toronto. Previously I was a researcher with the Institute for Integrated Energy Systems at the University of Victoria (2004-2006).
Dr Jon McKechnie is part of the Sustainable Process Technologies (SPT) Research Group
Expertise Summary
The overarching objective of my research is to develop and identify cost-effective resource utilization strategies to contribute to environmental sustainability objectives. My expertise is in the application of systems analysis approaches (technical, economic, and environmental perspectives) to renewable and conventional energy systems and materials. This research involves both the development of novel analytical approaches as well as their use in informing system improvements in terms of non-renewable resource use, greenhouse gas emissions, and other parameters.
Recent research has focused largely on biomass-derived fuels and materials, undertaking a multi-disciplinary approach including engineering, forestry, policy, and economics components. These projects have benefited from collaborations with both the private and public sector. On-going work asseses sustainable biomass supply chains, conversion technologies, and chemicals/plastics production from biomass sources
Similar whole-systems approaches are taken in current research in non-bioenergy fields, including: carbon fibre composites recycling; critical materials; microgrids and energy storage systems; and heavy-duty vehicle fuels.
Future Research
I welcome enquiries from potential PhD candidates from Home, EU and international countries who are interested in the following research areas: Life cycle assessment / life cycle analysis / LCA; Techno-economic analysis / TEA; Evaluating emerging process technologies, materials, and energy products; Waste valorisation and circular economy; Policy analysis - biofuels, waste.