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Dr. Blommel is the Chief Engineer of Technology for Encina Development Group. He has extensive experience in the production of BTX chemicals from conventional and alternative feedstocks. Most recently at Virent, as Director of Technology Development, Dr. Blommel lead the development of multiple pathways to convert biomass-derived feedstocks into commercial-grade paraxylene and benzene as well as renewable gasoline, jet fuel, and diesel. In cooperation with industry partners such as Coca-Cola, this effort culminated in the first demonstration-scale production of fully renewable PET polyester for beverage bottles and clothing. Prior to Virent, he served in several roles at UOP ranging from catalyst and process development to Chief Technical Advisor for the commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting of commercial aromatic chemical production facilities. As a technology innovator, he is an inventor of more than 30 US patents and an author of more than 10 peer-reviewed publications. He holds a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering and a Ph.D. in Biophysics, both from the University of Wisconsin.