profile picture
Francesco D'acierno
I'm working on
a month ago
Low-energy, cost-efficient processing and circularity through new technologies for encapsulation, particle engineering, and porous carbons. My research focuses on preserving sensitive compounds, improving resource efficiency, and creating sustainable solutions for several fields.
About
My research transforms everyday waste, such as food scraps and non-recyclable plastics, into high-performance, sustainable materials. We extract natural nanoparticles to create Pickering emulsions, then use electrostatic spray drying (a technique my group introduced in the Benelux) to convert these into powders that protect sensitive ingredients like fragrances and probiotics for easy storage and use. Simultaneously, we apply pressure-driven thermal treatments to convert mixed waste into porous carbons for safer batteries, green catalysts, or soil amendments. Our approach emphasizes sustainability: low-temperature, energy-efficient processing with green solvents and non-toxic ingredients. We turn waste into cleaner products, while cutting costs and emissions without compromising quality.
Partnering listings
Learn more
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Hydrothermal carbonization of pectin side streams into renewable energy pellets

Thermochemical process that converts wet pectin side streams into energy-dense hydrochar pellets for use as renewable solid biofuel. Eliminates energy-intensive drying, integrates into existing industrial operations, and...

TechnologyIn developmentUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray-dried biopolymer particles for food-grade whitening

A novel electrostatic spray drying technology designed to produce biopolymer microparticles as a clean-label alternative to TiO2 for food applications. This method uses food-approved biopolymers to create highly scatteri...

TechnologyConceptualUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray drying-enabled multi-active nutraceutical platform

A novel beauty-from-within platform using electrostatic spray drying (ESD) to generate microparticles containing longevity actives like urolithin A and nicotinamide riboside. ESD enhances stability and bioavailability by...

TechnologyConceptualUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray-dried lignin-polysaccharide composite microspheres

A novel lignin-polysaccharide matrix fertilizer produced via electrostatic spray drying (ESD) offers a sustainable, scalable alternative to conventional coating methods. This method creates dense composite microspheres w...

TechnologyIn developmentUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray drying for controlled gelation of psyllium fiber drinks

This technology utilizes electrostatic spray drying (ESD) to create psyllium composite microparticles that delay hydration and suppress the initial viscosity burst in water, optimizing drinkability of psyllium fiber beve...

TechnologyConceptualUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Biomimetic electrostatic spray-dried system for curl styling

A novel biomimetic curl-definition system utilizing electrostatic spray-dried capsules to deliver long-lasting, flexible, and humidity-resistant curl styling. The biodegradable composition ensures minimal residue and fla...

TechnologyConceptualUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray-dried controlled release fragrance systems for topicals

A novel electrostatic spray-dried fragrance system designed for topical applications, offering enhanced scent retention and prolonged release with minimal greasy residue, using biodegradable microcapsules.

TechnologyIn developmentUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray-dried protection of sensitive ingredients for beverages

A novel electrostatic spray drying (ESD) system to protect sensitive botanical extracts or natural colors in clear beverages. This technology creates submicron, rapidly redispersible microcapsules that maintain beverage ...

TechnologyIn developmentUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray drying for color reduction in plant proteins

A novel low-temperature electrostatic spray drying method to lighten plant-protein ingredients, preserving functionality and improving color for meat analogs without synthetic whiteners.

TechnologyIn developmentUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray-dried clean-label encapsulated systems for sugar reduction

A novel clean-label platform using electrostatic spray drying to create structured powders from naturally derived ingredients, enabling sugar reduction in baked goods and confectionery while maintaining sweetness and mou...

TechnologyConceptualUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray drying for efficient lipid downstream processing

The Electrostatic Spray Drying (ESD) technology offers an efficient solution for processing fermentation-derived lipids. It enables the conversion of lipids into stable powders with high oil retention, reducing energy us...

TechnologyIn developmentUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray-dried postbiotics-prebiotics for oral microbiome balance

Revolutionary electrostatic spray-drying technology creates stable postbiotic-prebiotic microcapsules for oral microbiome modulation. Compatible with toothpaste and mouthwash, this solution promotes oral health by enrich...

TechnologyConceptualUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Cyclodextrin-stabilized creatine powders via electrostatic spray drying

Innovative cyclodextrin-stabilized creatine powders enhance solubility and stability, utilizing electrostatic spray drying to create pH-sensitive microcapsules for improved bioavailability. Ideal for integration in food ...

TechnologyIn developmentUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray-dried ingredients for energy in foods

A novel electrostatic spray-dried (ESD) platform delivers controlled, sustained energy through co-encapsulated ingredients like caffeine and B vitamins. This solution offers a clean taste and is compatible with various f...

TechnologyConceptualUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Electrostatic spray-dried functional ingredients for weight-management nutrition

Innovative electrostatic spray drying (ESD) technology creates functional ingredients for weight management by preserving bioactive compounds and optimizing nutrient release. This method enhances flavor, satiety, and nut...

TechnologyConceptualUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Low-sugar taste enhancement via electrostatic spray-dried natural sweetness enhancers

Innovative electrostatic spray-drying (ESD) technology creates natural sweetness enhancers with low sugar content, using encapsulated sweetness potentiators and aroma cues. Suitable for beverages and sauces, this solutio...

TechnologyConceptualUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Fractionated protein ingredients for clear beverages via electrostatic spray drying

A novel method to produce clear, heat-stable protein ingredients for beverages using electrostatic spray drying, ensuring high protein content without turbidity or off-flavors. Suitable for ready-to-drink applications, t...

TechnologyConceptualUniversity
FD
Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)

Controlled-release herbicides via encapsulation and electrostatic spray drying

Innovative herbicide formulation using biodegradable nanoparticle shells and electrostatic spray drying to enhance UV protection and controlled release. This scalable process improves adhesion, reduces volatilization, an...

TechnologyIn developmentUniversity
profile picture
Francesco D'acierno
Work experience
UKRI Postdoctoral Fellow (MSCA)
2023 - 2024
AgroParisTech & INRAE Consortium
Postdoctoral Associate
2021 - 2023
Top industry applications
Biological waste treatmentCircular economy solutionsCosmetic chemistryFood waste valorizationPharmaceuticals and drug deliveryPlastic recycling technologyPolymer composites
Expertise
Chemical PhysicsFood Engineering & ProcessingNanofluidicsNanomaterialsNanotechnologyPhysical Chemistry
Last updated Aug 2026
Halo home
Partner smarter. Move faster.
Get new partnering requests
delivered to your inbox.