Dr. Nicholas Lentz, Senior Analytics Manager for Birchtech, has more than 20 years of experience conducting mercury and water research and tests, both in the lab and in the field with over 75 full-scale test programs and numerous bench- and pilot test projects. Dr. Lentz manages Birchtech’s Analytic Design Center operations, which included the analysis and expert assessment of various contaminant and water sources. Dr. Lentz consulted on the center’s proprietary equipment design and integration, as well as PFAS testing protocols, and plays a critical role in the development of Birchtech’s innovative technologies for contaminant capture and removal. Nick is also an expert in the identification and development of new analytical methods for the advancement of elemental and small molecule analysis in a wide range of matrices including coal and coal by-products, CO₂ capture solutions, oil and gas fuels; analysis for combustion flue gas, syngas, fuel oil, and biowaste. Prior to his current position, Dr. Lentz was an Associate Director for Energy Technology Applications in the Institute for Energy Studies at the University of North Dakota. Dr. Lentz also previously was a Center for Air Toxic Metals (CATM) Program Area Manager and Research Scientist at the Energy & Environmental Research Center where he was responsible for managing a portfolio of measurement based research projects in the Analytical Measurement Area of CATM as well as experimental design and analysis related control technologies to remove mercury, trace metals, and halogens from combustion and gasification systems. Dr. Lentz has a B.S. in Chemistry from Bemidji State University and Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Iowa State University. He has authored and co-authored numerous publications.