15 years of Chemforum
On April 17, 2025

The 15th  anniversary of Chemforum was celebrated on 9 April 2025, bringing together over 80 researchers and students for a dynamic day of talks and discussions. Isabel Marrucho opened the event, thanking organisers and attendees, and delivered an inspiring message on being open to new ideas.

Matilde Marques began the scientific sessions presenting a study on an asthma drug linked to serious side effects, and another on targeting antibiotic resistance. Carlos Henriques presented on plasma catalysis for converting CO₂ into methane and methanol under milder conditions. Amélia Pilar Rauter discussed glucoside polyphenols, their therapeutic potential, and synthetic challenges.

After a coffee break sponsored by Laborspirit, Fátima Montemor introduced creative, sustainable approaches to supercapacitors and batteries. João Paulo Leal explored the circular economy and the recycling of lanthanides, showcasing patented work with ionic liquids and chitosan membranes.

Bernardo Herold closed the event with a lecture on The Conquest of Lisbon in 1580 as Told by a German Soldier, offering a unique historical perspective that reminded participants of the value of curiosity across disciplines.