The research of Omar Pandoli, an Italian chemical engineer, revolves around sustainability-focused reactors. Inspired by nature, his project involves constructing a bioreactor using bamboo biomass. Omar completed his undergraduate studies at the Industrial Technical Institute in Italy and went on to earn his master’s and doctorate degrees in pharmaceutical technologies from Alma Mater University, also located in Italy. Outside the confines of the laboratory, Omar seeks a deeper connection with nature. He frequents the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, where he enjoys playing ultimate frisbee with the Callithrix team. On weekends, he embarks on walks in the woods with his young son and indulges in mountain biking whenever possible. His scientific inspiration stems from observing and attempting to emulate nature. In addition to his scientific pursuits, Omar dabbles in photography. He particularly enjoys developing black-and-white negatives at home.
Omar Ginoble Pandoli
Chemistry
Projects
Biomicrofluidics, a burgeoning field of research, leverages biomaterials and nature-inspired designs to create miniaturized biomimetic reactors that have applications across various areas of chemistry. The focus of the project is to develop a biomimetic microfluidic device composed entirely of biodegradable biopolymers derived from the bamboo plant. The chemical properties of bamboo’s vascular bundles are harnessed in this process. Additionally, the network of microchannels will be coated with metallic nanoparticles possessing catalytic properties through flow organic synthesis. The fabrication of a biological microfluidic device functionalized with metals paves the way for developing a new class of biomimetic bamboo microreactors. These innovative microreactors are not only more cost-effective but also more sustainable than the artificially constructed microfluidic systems currently available in the market.
