07/02/2026
PhD student Ya Tang is first author, with Professor Yan Li as co-corresponding author, on a collaborative study with that presents a new 3D-printable formulation of zeolite catalyst that could facilitate turning waste plastic, wood, and food into a viable sustainable energy source.
The study, published in the .Portfolio journal Advanced Manufacturing, presents a method and formulation that not only addresses geometric constraints, but also ensures uniformity of composition and structural integrity throughout the printed catalyst.
"My favorite part was doing the iteration," said Tang. "3D-printing formulas require different binders and powders and processing temperatures, and also mixing techniques. So we tried a lot of things. You never know what's going to happen, but it's always exciting to find something that really works and really can change the world."