Dhiresh Daya

Chemical Engineering graduate with a strong foundation in sustainable processes and renewable energy. I aspire to work in the chemical and energy sectors, focusing on optimizing processes to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Passionate about developing new chemistry and improving existing processes to drive decarbonization, making both the chemical and energy sectors more sustainable. I aim to contribute to renewable energy solutions, creating innovative approaches that promote environmental stewardship and accelerate the transition to a greener future, ultimately contributing to impactful projects that drive meaningful change.

Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Water Hyacinth(2024)

Final Year Chemical Engineering Research Project

The project focused on converting the invasive aquatic plant, water hyacinth, from Hartbeespoort Dam into bio-oil through hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) to reduce reliance on conventional petroleum, promote sustainability, and support carbon neutrality. It specifically examined how HTL temperature, biomass- to-water ratio, and particle size influenced bio-oil yield, composition, and calorific value. Supervised by professor Yusuf Isa.

Polygeneration Plant(2024)

Final Year Chemical Engineering Design Project

Implemented SASOL-LURGI gasifiers within an Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) system to produce synthesis gas, DME, methanol, and electricity, targeting net-zero carbon emissions. Utilized biomass, coal, and methane as feedstocks. Applied Aspen Plus for process simulation, conducted economic analysis for scalability, and prepared comprehensive reports.

• Curro Academic excellence award(2019): Awarded for receiving an 80% average in grade 12
• Spirit of Charity(2019): Award issued by Waterstone College for being the most engaged & enthusiastic member of the outreach society

I aim to work towards ECSA registration as a Professional Engineer. I want to achieve this by pursuing a career in the energy and chemical sector, particularly by helping to create new chemistry and improve processes in the race towards environmental sustainability and decarbonization.

Engineers Without Borders(2024)