Program Overview

Advanced Materials: General Session

Organiser(s):
Nhat Truong Nguyen, Concordia University

Description:
This session will delve into the latest advancements and innovations in the field of advanced materials, specifically from a chemical engineering perspective. Topics will include the synthesis, characterization, and processing of new materials with enhanced properties, such as increased strength, durability, and conductivity. The session will also cover the development of materials for specific chemical engineering applications, including catalysts, membranes, and coatings, as well as advancements in nanomaterials, biomaterials, and smart materials that respond to environmental stimuli.
The General Session is open to abstract submissions that relate to any relevant research or practical engineering work in the field of Advanced Materials. We encourage contributions that present novel findings, innovative approaches, and practical applications, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the latest trends and developments in advanced materials within the context of chemical engineering.

Functional Polymers and Polymerization Engineering

Organiser(s):
Kelly Meek, Concordia University

Description:
Functional polymers are transforming modern materials science, enabling breakthroughs in energy storage, biomedical applications, sustainability, and smart materials. This session will highlight innovations in polymer design and polymerization engineering that drive the development of advanced materials with tailored mechanical, electrical, optical, and chemical properties.
Topics include polymers for energy applications (e.g., solid polymer electrolytes, ion-conducting membranes and binders), responsive and self-healing materials, biomaterials for drug delivery and tissue engineering, membranes for separations, and smart materials with adaptive properties. Emphasis will be placed on polymerization strategies that enable precise control over architecture, composition, and functionality.

Sustainable Polymers, Composites and Circular Economy
Organiser(s):

Manjusri Misra, University of Guelph
Amar Mohanty, University of Guelph

Description:
In this session we encourage submission of abstracts on Plastic Waste and Agri-food Waste Valorization; Biochar/Biocarbon, Lignin, Cellulose based materials; Biodegradable Plastic; Biocomposites and Circular Economy. Valorization of waste plastics in biocomposites is a strategy towards lessening greenhouse gas emissions. Giving a new home to waste plastics supporting a circular economy is a strategy towards improved sustainability. The sustainable biocomposites can find applications in light weight automotives, consumer products, rigid packaging, biomedical devices, agriculture and many more.

Beyond Lithium-Ion Batteries: Chemistry and Materials

Organiser(s):
Xiaolei Wang, University of Alberta
Shuhui Sun, INRS
Michael Pope, University of Waterloo

Description:
It’s been 30 years since the first commercialization of lithium-ion battery (LIB) which are currently dominating portable electronics, electric vehicles, and even grid storage. However, traditional LIBs have reached their limits in terms of energy, power and service life, and raised significant concerns on cost and safety. Recently, more and more battery technologies with the same or different operating chemistry/mechanisms are emerging towards different applications, including but not limited to, sodium (or other alkaline)-ion batteries, lithium-sulfur (selenium or tellurium) batteries, lithium-metal based batteries, all-solid-state batteries, and aqueous Zn-ion batteries, and battery recycling technologies. It is worth discussing these emerging technologies and corresponding energy materials and chemistry to indicate new challenges and opportunities.

Biotechnology, Bioprocesses, Bioengineering and Bioeconomics – General Session

Organiser(s):
Mariya Marinova, Royal Military College of Canada
Ludovic Montastruc, Institut National Polytechnique, Toulouse, France

Description:

The bioeconomy concept is gaining interest with the promise to reduce fossil fuel use, mitigate climate change, promote efficient use of resources. Advancements in bioengineering applications, biotechnology and bioprocesses are pillars for building the bioeconomy. The session is an opportunity to connect key players of academia, research institutes, industry and government and present latest work and developments.

Topics of interest for submission include:
• Bio-based resources and efficient resource recovery
• Research advancement in the field of biotechnology and bioengineering
• Innovative bioprocesses
• Integrated biorefineries
• Bioenergy research
• Modeling and analysis tools contributing to the sustainable growth of bioeconomy
• Implementing digital solutions in the bioeconomy

Bio(carbon)-Materials: Nature-Derived Materials Functionalization

Organiser(s):
Noemie-Manuelle Dorval Courchesne, McGill University
Zeinab Hosseinidoust, McMaster University

Description:
Topics including: Materials derived or inspired from nature to solve sustainability or health challenges. Functional materials fabricated using engineered biological components such as proteins, peptides, microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, etc.), biopolymers, etc.. Biocomposite materials as “green” alternatives. “Living” materials and devices

International Symposium on Bio(carbon)-Materials – Applications (Invitation Only)

Organiser(s):
Sophia He, Dalhousie University
Ange Nzihou, IMT Mines Albi, CNRS (France) and Princeton University (ISA)

Description:
Innovation in biocarbon (biochar, hydrochar, and carbon quantum dots) and their applications in catalysis, materials, environmental remediation, energy, agriculture, and food chain.

Catalysis and Reaction Engineering – General Session

Organiser(s):
Melanie Hazlett, Concordia University
Daria Camilla Boffito, Polytechnique Montreal

Description:

This session will delve into the latest advancements and innovative approaches in catalysis and reaction engineering. Topics will include the development of new catalysts, optimization of reaction conditions, and advancements in reactor design. The session will also cover the application of catalysis in various chemical processes, including energy conversion, environmental remediation, and the synthesis of valuable chemicals. Emphasis will be placed on both experimental and theoretical studies that enhance our understanding of catalytic mechanisms and reaction kinetics.

The General Session is open to abstract submissions that relate to any relevant research or practical engineering work in the field of catalysis and reaction engineering. We encourage contributions that present novel findings, innovative approaches, and practical applications, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the latest trends and developments in catalysis and reaction engineering.

Electrochemical and Photochemical Innovations

Organiser(s):
Cao Thang Dinh, Queens University
Dongling Ma, INRS
Shiva Mohajernia, University of Alberta
Ali Seifitokaldani, McGill University

Description:
This session explores cutting-edge advancements in electrochemical and photochemical processes driving sustainable energy solutions. Topics include novel materials, innovative reactor designs, and integrated systems for clean energy production, carbon management, and resource efficiency. Emphasis will be on bridging scientific innovation with practical applications for a greener, more resilient future. In particular, this session will cover the following main topics:
– Electrochemical and photochemical carbon dioxide conversion
– Electrosynthesis of ammonia and Urea
– Photochemical transformation of biomass
– Hydrogen evolution from water
– Plasmon enhanced photocatalysis

Separations

Organiser(s):
Dean Kennedy, Royal Military College of Canada

Description:
Separations are pivotal for sustainability, encompassing the production of renewable energy sources, carbon capture and storage, wastewater treatment, and environmental cleanup efforts. This sessions will highlight the latest developments and practical applications associated with various processes and novel adsorbent materials used in adsorption-based separations.

Computational Chemical Engineering

Organiser(s):
TBD

Description:

This session will delve into the diverse computational techniques used in chemical engineering, spanning from molecular-scale modeling to process-scale simulations. Topics will include the modeling of chemical reactions at the molecular level, equilibrium and kinetics using thermodynamic modeling tools, geochemical modeling, and the simulation of mass and energy balances in chemical plants. The session will also cover advanced computational methods such as life cycle analysis and exergy analyses.

This session is open to abstract submissions that relate to any relevant research or practical engineering work in the field of computational chemical engineering. We encourage contributions that present novel computational methods, innovative applications, and practical case studies, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the latest trends and developments in computational techniques within chemical engineering.

Education in Chemical Engineering: General Session

Organiser(s):
Jonathan Verrett, University of British Columbia
Brenden Moeun, McGill University

Description:
This session will explore the latest advancements and innovative approaches in chemical engineering education across various settings. Topics will include pedagogical strategies for academic institutions, industrial training programs, life-long learning and re-training initiatives, and public education efforts. The session will also cover the role of education in shaping policy and governmental decisions, emphasizing the importance of a well-informed society and workforce.
The General Session is open to abstract submissions that relate to any relevant research or practical work in the field of Education in Chemical Engineering. We encourage contributions that present novel educational approaches, innovative training programs, and strategies for public engagement and policy influence. This session aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of the latest trends and developments in chemical engineering education across diverse settings.

Energy: General Session

Organiser(s):
Melanie Hazlett, Concordia University
Nhat Truong Nguyen, Concordia University
Federico Galli, Sherbrooke University

Description:

This session will explore a wide range of energy-related research and innovations within the field of chemical engineering. Topics will include advancements in energy conversion and storage technologies, the development and optimization of renewable energy sources, and strategies for improving energy efficiency in industrial processes. The session will also cover emerging energy technologies and integrated approaches to sustainable energy solutions, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the energy landscape.

The General Session is open to abstract submissions that relate to any relevant research or practical engineering work in the field of energy, specifically those topics not already covered by the other sessions in the Energy track. We encourage contributions that present novel findings, innovative approaches, and practical applications, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the latest trends and developments in energy within the context of chemical engineering.

Carbon Management

Organiser(s):
Charles de Lannoy, McMaster University

Description:
Managing carbon in a CO2 excessive world includes carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) ranging from ocean alkalinity enhancement and soil carbon management, to direct air capture and point source carbon capture

CIC Energy Division Symposium on Solutions for Energy Storage and Conversion

Organiser(s):
Romain Kersaudy, University of Sherbrooke
Maroua Rouabah, University of Sherbrooke

Description:
As the global demand for clean and efficient energy solutions continues to grow, advancements in energy storage and conversion technologies have become critical. This session focuses on intensified solutions that enhance energy efficiency, scalability, and sustainability through innovative chemical engineering approaches. The main areas of interest are:
• Next-generation battery
• Supercapacitors
• Fuel cells
• Hydrogen production and storage
• Electrochemical energy conversion
• Thermal energy management
• Process intensification

Hydrogen Innovations: Pioneering Sustainable Energy Solutions

Organiser(s):
Rafael Santos, University of Guelph

Description:
Focus: This session will delve into the latest advancements and innovative approaches in hydrogen production, emphasizing both traditional and alternative pathways. It will cover the various “colors” of hydrogen, each representing a different production method, and encourage submissions that highlight novel techniques and sustainable solutions. Additionally, the session will explore hydrogen’s role as a reagent in chemical and materials processes and its potential to green other industrial processes. This includes innovations in using hydrogen in new or revamped chemical processes, such as hydrogenation, hydrocracking, and other catalytic processes that can enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Importance: Hydrogen is a versatile and clean energy carrier with the potential to play a significant role in the transition to a sustainable energy future. It is also a crucial reagent in various chemical and materials processes, contributing to the production of ammonia, methanol, and other essential chemicals. Understanding and developing diverse production methods and innovative applications in chemical processes is crucial for making hydrogen a viable and widespread energy solution.

Relation to Chemical Engineering: Chemical engineers are at the forefront of developing and optimizing hydrogen production technologies and its applications in chemical processes. This session will showcase research that spans a range of production methods, from conventional processes to cutting-edge innovations, highlighting the role of chemical engineering in advancing hydrogen technology. Topics will include process engineering, reactor design, reaction mechanisms, thermodynamics, and the integration of hydrogen into existing and new chemical processes.

This session will also welcome research on emerging and less conventional methods, encouraging a broad spectrum of innovative approaches to hydrogen production and utilization.

Process Intensification

Organiser(s):
Daria Camilla Boffito, Polytechnique Montreal

Description:
This Process Intensification (PI) session, part of the Energy track at the CSChE conference, invites contributions focusing on advancements in chemical and process engineering categorized as “PI”. Abstracts, presentations, and posters should emphasize PI techniques, classified as either Intensified Equipment (Innovations in reactor or equipment design enhancing efficiency) or Intensified Methods (Novel operational strategies, including, for instance, alternative energy vectors and synergies between unit operations). Submissions demonstrating significant energy and resource efficiency improvements are encouraged. Additionally, contributions involving mathematical modeling and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) applications in process intensification are highly welcomed.

Sustainable Aviation Fuels

Organiser(s):
Arno de Klerk, University of Alberta
Cibele Halmenschlager, University of Alberta

Description:
Process and product development related to the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in particular, or synthetic fuels in general.

Environmental Engineering General Session

Organiser(s):
Nathalie Tufenkji, McGill University
Olubukola Alimi, University of Alberta
Chunjiang An, Concordia University
Kevin Golovin, University of Toronto

Description:
This session provides a broad overview of cutting-edge research, innovative solutions, and emerging challenges in the field of environmental engineering. We invite submissions discussing advances in sustainable design, pollution control, resource management, environmental remediation and climate resilience.

Environmental Fate and Impacts of Microplastics, Nanoplastics and Other Nanomaterials

Organiser(s):
Nathalie Tufenkji, McGill University
Olubukola Alimi, University of Alberta
Chunjiang An, Concordia University
Kevin Golovin, University of Toronto
Zhi Chen, Concordia University

Description:
Microplastics, nanoplastics, and engineered nanomaterials are increasingly detected in air, water, soil, and biota, raising concerns about their long-term environmental and human health impacts. This session explores recent research on the sources, transport, transformation, and ecological effects of these materials. We also invite submissions discussing regulatory challenges, mitigation strategies, and innovative technologies for detecting and reducing their presence in the environment.

Wastewater Treatment and Drinking Water Production

Organiser(s):
Wen Ma, University of Sherbrooke

Description:
Ensuring clean water for communities requires advanced treatment technologies and sustainable management strategies. This session focuses on innovations in wastewater treatment and drinking water production, highlighting new approaches in filtration, disinfection, nutrient removal, and emerging contaminant management. We also invite submissions discussing case studies, policy considerations, and future trends in water treatment to enhance efficiency, resilience, and environmental sustainability.

Contaminants of Emerging Concern

Organiser(s):
Emily (Yi Wai) Chiang, University of Guelph

Description:
As analytical detection methods improve, contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), a growing number of previously unrecognized pollutants—such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, industrial chemicals, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—are being identified in water, soil, and air. This session explores the occurrence, behavior, and potential risks of these contaminants, as well as advancements in monitoring, treatment technologies, and regulatory frameworks.

EDI in Chemical Engineering – General Session

Organiser(s):
TBD

Description:
This session will explore the integration of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) principles within the field of chemical engineering. Topics will include strategies for fostering inclusive educational environments, promoting diverse representation in the workforce, and implementing equitable practices in research and industry. The session will also cover the impact of EDI on innovation, collaboration, and the overall advancement of chemical engineering.
The General Session is open to abstract submissions that relate to any relevant research or practical work in the field of EDI in Chemical Engineering. We encourage contributions that present novel approaches, case studies, and best practices for integrating EDI principles into education, research, and industry. This session aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of the latest trends and developments in EDI, promoting a more inclusive and equitable chemical engineering community.

Interface and Surface Science: General Session

Organiser(s):
Anne Benneker, University of Calgary
Reghan J. Hill, McGill University
Sami Khan, Simon Fraser University
Arun Ramchandran, University of Toronto

Description:

Fundamental and applied aspects of interfaces, complex fluids and soft matter, including interfacial mechanics, colloidal dispersions, emulsions, vesicles, capsules, and gels. The session welcomes theoretical and experimental contributions addressing, but not limited to, methodologies, structure and performance, the main topics of interest including:

• Interfacial fundamentals and methodologies
• Interfaces in biological and biological systems
• Bubbles, drops and particles
• Interfacial and non-linear flows
• Colloids and gels
• Electrokinetics
• Micro- and nano-fluidics
• Rheology

Beyond PFAS: Next-generation Alternatives

Organiser(s):
Kevin Golovin, University of Toronto

Description:
This session focuses on new compounds, surface modifiers, and materials that can replace perfluoroalkylated substances (PFAS) in the myriad applications where they are found, with relevant topics ranging from the total synthesis of novel compounds to the study of alternate materials in current, PFAS-containing applications.

Process Safety Management – General Session

Organiser(s):
Lucy Chen, Economical
Mahdi Sharifian, Polytechnique Montreal

Description:
Process Safety Management (PSM) is about keeping people, the environment, and businesses safe around hazardous materials and processes. The PSM symposium will focus on sharing knowledge, best practices, tools, and innovations for implementing and sustaining PSM systems across industries. It will also showcase new research and development in the field.

Systems and Control

Organiser(s):
Nicolas Hudon, Department of Chemical Engineering, Queens University

Description:
The Systems and Control Division of the Chemical Institute of Canada consists of researchers, professionals, and students who are interested in all aspects of process systems engineering (PSE): Process control, process modeling, process optimization, statistical methods and data analytics applied to chemical process systems. The Systems and Control Division Symposium at the CSChE 2025 Conference includes contributions presenting fundamental or application results on the following topics:

• Modeling 
• Optimization
• Control
• Model Predictive Control
• General/Other

Organiser(s):
João B. P. Soares, Editor-in-Chief, The Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta

Description:
All presentations in Advances in Chemical Engineering: A CJCE Symposium are invited talks from leaders in chemical engineering in Canada and abroad. The talks are 25-minutes long, followed by a 5-minute question period.