14th Asian Aerosol Conference (AAC) 2025, hosted by the Indian Aerosol Science and Technology Association (IASTA). 1-4 December 2025, Mumbai, India　

https://aacindia2025.in/ Venue: Taj The Trees, Vikhroli, Mumbai >> google map

Prof. Wuled Lenggoro serves as a member of both the International Advisory Committee and the Technical Program Committee. Additionally, he holds the position of Chair for the Asian Young Aerosol Scientist Award (AYASA 2025).

https://aacindia2025.in/asian-young-aerosol-scientist-award/

Below is the Abstract of an (invited) talk in Mumbai (prepared around Oct. 2025).

PREPARATION OF CANDLE SOOT PARTICLES AND THEIR APPLICATION FOR SOLAR WATER DISTILLATION AND SEED GERMINATION ENHANCEMENT

Carbonaceous nanoparticles are critical for functional materials, but their synthesis is often complex and costly. Candle soot, a low-cost carbonaceous nanoparticle source from simple combustion, offers an accessible alternative. This work investigates soot particles directly collected from candle flames, which yield superhydrophobic or hydrophilic properties based on collection location. We present two novel applications: (1) the fabrication of solar-driven water distillation membranes by integrating soot into polymer fibers via candle-assisted electrospinning, and (2) the enhancement of seed germination using aqueous suspensions of soot colloids. The photothermal membranes enhanced water vapor generation by up to 194.5% under 1-sun illumination, achieving high distillation rates. Furthermore, soot colloids accelerated tomato seed germination, achieving 100% germination by day 4 (a ~33% reduction in mean time) and significantly increasing seedling vigor. This study highlights candle soot as a versatile, scalable source of functional carbonaceous nanoparticles for sustainable water purification and agriculture.

The previous (2024) was in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. : https://www.asianaerosol2024.com/