Véronique Ducharme: A University of Sherbrooke Student Tackling the Crucial Energy Challenges of the Future

The world is at a critical crossroads. Greenhouse gases (GHGs) continue to accumulate, threatening the planet’s climate balance and the future of coming generations. As governments and industries seek solutions to prevent environmental catastrophe, some voices emerge, driven by passionate commitment and a desire to make a difference. Among them is Véronique Ducharme, a master’s student in Chemical Engineering at the University of Sherbrooke, who stands out with her bold and innovative approach.

A Path Fueled by the Desire for Change

Véronique Ducharme is no ordinary student. Her journey towards energy transition wasn’t predetermined, but it was guided by a deep sensitivity to social and environmental issues. Initially, Véronique pursued occupational therapy, partly inspired by her sister, who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Her desire to help children with special needs led her to choose this field, but something felt missing.

Soon after starting her studies in occupational therapy, Véronique felt a strong connection to the environmental challenges facing society. It wasn’t just an interest in science; it was a growing passion for the planet’s future. “I’ve always been fascinated by nature and science,” Véronique explains. “But understanding the urgency of the climate crisis made me realize I wanted to be at the forefront of solutions for a sustainable future.” This awareness prompted her to pivot toward chemical engineering, where she could combine her passion for natural sciences with a strong desire to contribute to concrete solutions.

An Ambitious Research Project for a Greener Future

Her current research project, conducted at the Biomass Technology Laboratory (LTB) under the supervision of Professor Bruna Rego De Vasconcelos from the Faculty of Chemical and Biotechnological Engineering, focuses on converting combustion gases into low-carbon fuels using renewable electricity. These gases, derived from fossil fuels, contribute significantly to GHG emissions, and transforming them into valuable resources could represent a major turning point in the fight against climate change.

Véronique and a small team of students are working on an electrocatalytic technology aimed at capturing and converting these gases into reusable fuels, contributing to a more circular economy. But this isn’t just a theory on paper. Véronique and her colleagues are testing this technology in real-world conditions, exploring the kinetic mechanisms of the reaction to optimize the efficiency and stability of the process. “We want to ensure that this technology can be applied on a large scale,” says Véronique.

“This new technology could revolutionize clean energy use and drastically reduce reliance on fossil fuels while allowing industries to maintain their existing infrastructure. Our goal is to create an immediate impact without waiting for industries to change their practices or invest in costly new systems.”

The results so far are promising. Using sophisticated thermodynamic simulations, the team has modeled the innovative process, paving the way for potential industrial applications. Recently presented at the 10th International Conference on Engineering for Waste and Biomass Valorisation in Sendai, Japan, this work has already earned Véronique significant recognition in the scientific community, as well as a prestigious award.

The Fourwaves Excellence Scholarship Supporting Scientific and Academic Advancements

Fourwaves understands the importance of supporting initiatives like Véronique’s. Founded by Matthieu Chartier, a Ph.D. holder himself, the platform is dedicated to driving academic and scientific events while fostering collaboration among researchers globally. From abstract submissions to registrations, agendas, and creating a personalized event website for each occasion, Fourwaves has been empowering universities and associations for over a decade. To further demonstrate their commitment to groundbreaking research, they established the Fourwaves Excellence Scholarship, supporting innovative projects that have the potential to transform the world.

In the fall of 2023, Véronique Ducharme received the Fourwaves Excellence Scholarship in Environmental Sciences as part of the University of Sherbrooke’s Graduate Excellence Scholarship Program for her project on combustion gas conversion. This recognition is not only a tribute to her academic excellence but also to her clear vision of a sustainable energy future.

Véronique’s aspirations go beyond her current project; she envisions a career where she can influence energy policies and collaborate with industries to integrate cleaner technologies into their operations. “I’ve always wanted to make a difference,” she shares. “My dream is to contribute to a world where science, technology, and industries work hand in hand to protect our planet.”

Looking to the Future

This is just the beginning for Véronique. After earning her degree, she plans to pursue doctoral research, where she can deepen her current work and explore new avenues for energy innovation. She also hopes to use her expertise to raise public and policymaker awareness of the importance of green technologies. “It’s essential that we all understand the urgency of the situation and the importance of taking concrete action,” she says. “Technology is a powerful tool, but it must be used strategically and responsibly.”

With researchers like Véronique, we continue to push the boundaries of science and tackle energy challenges, one project at a time. At Fourwaves, we are proud to support those who dare to dream big and work hard to turn those dreams into reality.

For more information:
https://www.ltb-btl.ca/
https://www.usherbrooke.ca/recherche/en/udes