Viren Chunilall

Biography

Chunilall holds a PhD in chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. His areas of interest lie in chromophore identification and isolation from dissolving pulp, investigating new techniques to improve the reactivity of dissolving pulp for conversion into higher-value products and extraction of hydrophilic and lipophilic extractives from sawdust waste for conversion into xylitol and pine-oil.

Research Interest

Chunilall’s key competencies include cellulose chemistry, as well as understanding the impact that cellulose ultra-structure has on the accessibility and reactivity of dissolving pulps. He is part of a team of CSIR researchers focusing on pulping, papermaking and biorefinery technologies.