Congratulations to Rimas Meištininkas, a PhD student at the LEI Laboratory of Heat-Equipment Research and Testing, who successfully defended his PhD dissertation on 26 September 2024 on the topic of Bioremediation Potential of Petroleum Contaminated Soil Using Legume Siderates, Biological Additives, and Seed Treatment Technologies (Technological Sciences, Environmental Engineering, T004).
Congratulations to Simona Breidokaitė, a PhD Student at the LEI Laboratory of Nuclear Installation Safety, who successfully defended her PhD dissertation on 25 August 2025 on the topic of Modeling of the neutron transport based on the Monte Carlo method and the numerical estimation of radiological quantities towards the future nuclear fusion reactor DEMO (Technological Sciences, Energetics and Power Engineering, T006).
From July 28 to 31, Professor Dr. Saulius Gudžius, Director of the Lithuanian Energy Institute (LEI), and Dr. Robertas Poškas, Chief Researcher at the Laboratory of Nuclear Engineering Problems, participated in the 17th International Conference on Sustainable Energy and Environmental Protection (SEEP 2025), held at Brunel University London.
The Importance of Energy Flexibility
Professor Dr. Saulius Gudžius was one of the keynote speakers at the conference. In his presentation, “The Grid Is Not Enough: Flexibility & Seasonal Energy Storage”, he discussed Lithuania’s goal of ensuring energy independence, the need to increase system flexibility, and the role of seasonal thermal energy storage technologies. He emphasized that Lithuania has made a firm commitment to move away from dependence on Russian energy resources by expanding local renewable electricity production. However, ensuring system reliability requires a complex set of measures – smart regulation, investment incentives, and enhanced infrastructure flexibility.
Professor S. Gudžius highlighted the crucial importance of developing and implementing advanced electricity and thermal energy storage technologies, which ensure system flexibility and help manage fluctuations in renewable energy sources.
While the number of solar and wind power plants is rapidly growing in Lithuania, and the amount of energy produced by them is increasing, these sources are inherently intermittent and not always available. Therefore, it is essential to develop not only short-term but especially seasonal energy storage solutions. Such solutions allow for storing surplus energy when it is produced and using it when production is low, thereby improving grid reliability and reducing dependency on imported energy resources. Achieving Lithuania’s energy independence requires consistent development of energy infrastructure, the implementation of modern regulatory mechanisms, and the promotion of investments in innovative technologies and solutions that help balance energy demand and supply in the long term.
Recovery of Wastewater Streams in Industry
On July 28, during the iWAYS symposium at the conference, LEI researcher Dr. Robertas Poškas delivered a presentation titled “Acidic Condensate Treatment Using a Reverse Osmosis Pilot Unit”, which explored the treatment of industrial acidic condensate.
This research is part of the EU’s Horizon 2020 project iWAYS, which focuses on sustainable resource recovery solutions in industry. The study analyzed ways to recover water, heat, and materials from industrial streams. Simulated industrial waste streams containing aggressive chemical compounds – which pose major challenges to heat exchangers by causing corrosion, reducing their lifespan, and leading to costly downtimes – were examined. The research aimed to identify materials that withstand such conditions best and to determine how recovered heat could be efficiently reused.
According to Dr. R. Poškas, the goal was not only to recover heat from acidic waste streams but also to effectively treat the resulting condensate so it could be reused in industrial processes. The polluted condensate was purified using a prototype filtration system with a reverse osmosis filter.
The results showed that the prototype filtration system significantly reduced ion concentrations and metal content in the treated water, although it only slightly affected the pH – the purified water remained mildly acidic. This indicates that the technology is effective in removing impurities from industrial condensate.
“The possibility to reuse treated water is becoming an increasingly important direction for sustainability – especially in Southern European countries, where water scarcity is becoming more acute,” the researcher emphasized.
International Dialogue
Held for the 17th time, this international conference brought together academics, industry representatives, and policymakers from around the world. It provided a platform to discuss the latest trends and innovations in sustainable energy and environmental protection, promote international cooperation, and exchange knowledge to address global challenges.
Dr. R. Poškas noted that the conference was a great opportunity to meet scientists from other countries and discuss prospects for cooperation. Moreover, participation in such high-level events enhances the Institute’s visibility, helps build new connections, and creates opportunities to publish research results in international scientific journals. This year, LEI also contributed to the organization of the conference.
This summer, student Deimantas Šmigelskas is doing his internship at the Thermal Equipment Research and Testing Laboratory of the Lithuanian Energy Institute (LEI). The future third-year chemistry student at Vilnius University stood out for his academic achievements two years ago—scoring four perfect scores in state graduation exams and missing the fifth by just one point. For his summer internship, he chose LEI, where he deepens his knowledge of computational chemistry.
A Heart Drawn to Chemistry
Although Deimantas excelled in many subjects at school, he decided to study chemistry. His interest in the field began around 8th–9th grade and steadily grew. By the end of school, he was confident in his chosen path. To him, chemistry seemed like the perfect balance between the exact sciences and understanding nature—closer to nature than mathematics or physics, but not quite biology either. Before applying to university, he also researched the job market—where specialists are in demand and where competition is too high. Chemistry appeared to be a rational choice: consistent demand for professionals, and less competition in studies.
“During my studies, I realized I enjoy two branches of chemistry—computational and organic. So I looked for institutions offering internships in these areas. I wanted a topic more focused on theoretical modeling and less on experimental lab work. LEI offered exactly such an internship involving computer modeling and theoretical tasks, so I chose this institute. Also, I’m from Kaunas, so it’s nice to return home and spend the summer in my hometown,” says D. Šmigelskas.
Fascinated by Fundamental Science
At LEI’s Thermal Equipment Research and Testing Laboratory, Deimantas is working on the topic “Investigation of Hydrogen Embrittlement in Steel Alloys Using Molecular Dynamics Method.”
“During the internship, I spend most of my time writing code to simulate processes on a computer rather than using physical equipment. For example, I simulate the process of stretching metal. Of course, this could be done in a lab with proper equipment—you insert a metal sample into a testing device and stretch it. But I do it computationally, which allows me to observe the process at the molecular level. In real-world experiments, you can’t see that when working with macroscopic objects,” he explains. “For me, the most important thing is understanding fundamental processes—that’s what interests me most. That’s why I choose computer simulation—it allows us to capture what’s invisible to the human eye.”
Deimantas studies how hydrogen affects the brittleness of metals. Though it is a theoretical investigation, he believes it has practical value.
“It’s especially important economically—in technical fields like hydrogen storage. For example, when hydrogen is transported through pipelines, over time the metals used degrade due to interaction with hydrogen—they become brittle and may break spontaneously. It’s a complex phenomenon to explain. With molecular-level simulations—observing systems made of tens of thousands of atoms—we aim to understand how and why these metal properties deteriorate. I believe this is relevant not only to industry, where preventive measures can be applied, but also to fundamental science—to describe and understand in detail the processes occurring at the molecular level,” he says.
A Valuable Experience
Deimantas recalls his first visit to LEI as a teenager—on a school field trip. The institute left an impression, though he never imagined he’d return in a few years as an intern. He emphasizes that the internship at LEI enriched his knowledge and strengthened his motivation to continue in his chosen field.
“Professionally, I’m most glad I learned to use specialized software for molecular modeling. I also gained planning skills—learning to set daily goals, plan my week, identify what I’m aiming for and by when. At first, especially during the first week, I worked rather chaotically—I didn’t know where to start or how to prioritize tasks. Now everything is clearer—I’m better at organizing my time and work,” he smiles. “I really like the people at the institute—everyone is kind and helpful. If I don’t know something, I can always ask the internship coordinator—she immediately explains where to go, what to do, or what form to fill out. My supervisor is also very understanding—he’s flexible about mistakes and gives advice when I get stuck. This kind of environment encourages curiosity, growth, and learning.”
A tour of LEI’s experimental divisions at the start of the internship also left a strong impression. Before that, Deimantas imagined labs in a more traditional “chemical” way—with flasks, fume hoods, and reagents. But here he saw entirely different types of laboratories—where researchers even build their own equipment.
“It was fascinating to see how researchers from various energy-related fields work and what equipment they use. It helped me understand how much effort goes into even the simplest experiment,” he says. “I was also surprised by the size of the institute. At first, I thought everything was in one building, but then I realized there are multiple buildings and departments. It even feels like a small town,” he laughs. “I can confidently say that LEI is a great place for both interns and long-term employees. I really enjoy it here, and the scientists make a very professional impression.”
Fostering Independence
Deimantas recommends doing an internship at LEI to other students—not only those studying energy or engineering but also future chemists, physicists, and even economists. It may seem like the institute is strictly focused on energy, but in fact, professionals from various fields work here.
According to him, an internship at LEI is a great way to broaden your horizons and knowledge. Though he studies chemistry, his internship also involves mathematics and programming. This gives him a taste of different disciplines, fosters interdisciplinary skills, and helps him understand how specialists from diverse fields collaborate to solve complex scientific and technological challenges. He says this experience is not only valuable for professional development but also motivates a broader view of studies and career prospects.
“I was surprised by how much independence is given to the intern. I expected stricter control, but instead I was free to find solutions myself. My supervisor emphasized that the key is learning to find your way, not just blindly follow instructions. So I work using a ‘trial and error’ approach—spot a mistake, analyze it, improve, and move forward. Of course, when needed, my supervisor gives pointed feedback. This work style is perfect for independent, curious students,” he says. “The people at LEI are very friendly and supportive. The administration is easy to work with, everything is explained clearly, and the general atmosphere is welcoming. I also appreciate the convenient infrastructure—the cafeteria, rest areas, and courtyard where you can relax during breaks. The internship not only expands your knowledge but also helps you grow as a professional. LEI is a great place for independent, inquisitive students, regardless of their study field.”
Aiming for Broad Experience
Deimantas is still considering his future career path. The internship at LEI helped him gain knowledge and experience and better understand what truly interests him. He now has a clearer idea of what it’s like to work as a theoretical chemist specializing in computer simulations. Though he enjoys the field, he isn’t yet ready to make a final career decision.
“Since I’m only halfway through my studies, in the next two years I want to try more practical lab work—the more ‘classic’ chemist path. For now, my goal is to experience as much as possible, learn, and explore different branches of chemistry. Only after finishing my bachelor’s degree will I feel ready to specialize. I want my choice to be conscious and based on real experience,” he explains. “Right now, I imagine two possible future scenarios. One is academic: working at a university or research lab, being part of a research group, tackling relevant scientific questions, maybe even teaching. The other is non-academic: working as a chemist in an industrial company or startup, creatively solving problems and constantly thinking. I’m not interested in managerial roles. While my mind is still young and curious, I want to use it to the fullest—to search, explore, create, and understand.”
As part of the ICEREG project, a hydrodynamic model developed to assess flood and ice-jam risks in the Mūša River was successfully validated. The model’s performance was tested against data from a regular flood event in 2022 and a severe ice-jam flood in 2013.
According to hydrodynamic modelling expert Dr. Serhii Nazarenko, the model closely reflects observed water level variations: “In the 2022 flood case, the difference between simulated and measured peak water levels was up to 7 cm, with a correlation coefficient of 0.997 – indicating a very high level of accuracy.”
In the 2013 ice-jam flood simulation, the model also showed consistent trends, though simulated water levels were slightly higher due to limited data on ice parameters such as thickness and location. Nevertheless, the correlation coefficient of 0.98 confirms the model’s reliability for further risk assessment applications.
This validation step is crucial for the ICEREG project, which aims to improve ice-jam flood risk management in Latvia and Lithuania. As climate change increases the unpredictability of extreme weather events, accurate modelling of ice-jam dynamics is essential for identifying vulnerable areas, enhancing flood maps, and improving early warning systems. The validated model will support national and local authorities in making informed decisions and strengthening resilience in cross-border regions.
The Project is funded by the European Union’s Interreg VI-A Latvia–Lithuania Programme 2021–2027
More information: https://www.lei.lt/en/projektas/icereg/
This summer, three master’s students from France — Arnaud Duchâteau, Tony Alloza, and Guillaume Ardi — are doing internships at the Laboratory of Combustion Processes of the Lithuanian Energy Institute (LEI). They came to Lithuania to gain international experience and to get closer insight into scientific research in the field of energy.
Different Universities – Common Direction
Arnaud Duchâteau and Guillaume Ardi study energy engineering at Polytech Orléans, specializing in aerospace technologies. Meanwhile, Tony Alloza is a chemical engineering student at the National Graduate School of Chemical, Materials and Process Engineering (Toulouse INP-ENSIACET).
“My studies require a three-month internship abroad. I wanted to do it in Eastern Europe — I was interested in Lithuania and Poland, and while browsing online, I found the LEI Combustion Processes Laboratory. I knew that last year the lab had already hosted an intern from France, so I decided to try myself,” says T. Alloza, who started his internship in June.
A. Duchâteau and G. Ardi arrived in Lithuania at the beginning of the year as Erasmus+ program students. They studied for one semester at Vilnius TECH University and started their internship at LEI after completing the semester.
“We wanted to get to know Eastern Europe, as this is a region hardly known in France. This experience helped us not only deepen our academic knowledge and practical skills but also get acquainted with a new culture, people, daily life, and a different scientific and work environment. It was both an academic and personal experience we will remember,” says A. Duchâteau.
G. Ardi revealed that their decision to come to Lithuania was influenced not only by the desire to discover a new country but also by recommendations from acquaintances.
“Arnaud and I know a French student who did an internship at LEI last year — he studies at our university but is a year older. The former LEI intern shared his positive experience, which encouraged us to choose this institute as well. Also, we wanted to do the internship near Vilnius, where we studied for half a year, so we could coordinate our final exams and the internship. LEI seemed like a great opportunity,” he explains.
Experiencing Laboratory Life
During the internship, the students contribute to two different projects. One of them is “Sustainable Glass Industry with Fuel-Flexible Technology” (GIFFT), which aims to replace fossil fuels used in glass melting processes with alternative, low-carbon energy sources. The second project, “Investigation of thermal radiation enhancement from alternative fuel flames in industrial furnaces” (RAD2FUN), involves plasma-assisted combustion of ammonia and other alternative fuels. Initially, the interns reviewed scientific literature and then moved on to practical experiments related to combustion processes and plasma parameters.
“We conducted experiments with ammonia, CO₂, and methane, adjusting plasma frequency and voltage to study and understand the combustion processes in more detail. We worked with various experimental equipment — sensitive sensors, a specialized camera capturing combustion development, and analytical software for processing the collected data. It was not only interesting but also a very valuable experience,” revealed A. Duchâteau.
T. Alloza is glad that the lab work allowed him to apply the knowledge he gained during his chemical engineering studies. “Fundamentals of analytical chemistry, physics knowledge, and the ability to analyze data proved especially useful. I had never worked in a research laboratory before, so this experience was extremely valuable — both for professional development and my planned career in industry,” he says.
Business or Science?
The internship at LEI prompted the students to rethink their future plans. G. Ardi admitted that he previously planned not to continue his studies but is now considering pursuing a PhD. He was impressed by the world of scientific research, lab work, experiments, and data analysis.
Working in the lab left a positive impression on A. Duchâteau as well — he is considering continuing a scientific career. However, he admits that it is difficult in France to find a PhD topic that matches both personal interests and financial possibilities. So, at the moment, he is still weighing his options — he would like to work in a lab, but practical considerations will influence his decision.
T. Alloza already works as an engineer at a paper mill in France and plans to continue his industrial career after graduation. Nevertheless, he regards the LEI internship as a valuable and unique experience.
“Not many have the opportunity to work in a high-level scientific laboratory, especially abroad. I learned a lot — this is a significant experience that will help me in the future, no matter which path I choose,” he confidently states.
Recommendations to Others
The interns are pleased with the internship conditions at LEI and their time spent in Lithuania. According to T. Alloza, both the institute’s staff and the people they met outside were kind and always ready to help, so the students never felt alone.
“LEI left a great impression due to its modern laboratories, conferences we attended during the internship, and sincere attention to students. We had the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally,” says T. Alloza.
The students were especially impressed by the scale and infrastructure of the institute. During the internship, they visited not only the lab where they worked but also other scientific subdivisions, learned about various research directions, and saw technical equipment.
“It was impressive not only because of the LEI environment itself but also the constant support — the internship supervisors always made time to answer our questions, explained processes, and made sure we got the most out of this experience,” the interns emphasize.
They recommend LEI to other students who are considering internships abroad. According to interns, it is a great opportunity to gain international experience, improve English language skills, and get acquainted with a professional laboratory environment and research culture.
“Moreover, Lithuania is a very interesting country full of contrasts. Here you can not only see a lot but also experience it — both culturally and socially. Travel between cities is fast and affordable, so in our free time, we had the chance to visit various places — from vibrant cities to peaceful nature. This truly enriched our time here,” says A. Duchâteau.
On July 23, Vice Minister of Energy Airidas Daukšas and Strategic Change Management Group Advisor Tomas Lukoševičius visited the Lithuanian Energy Institute (LEI). During the visit, the guests were introduced to the institute’s activities, its cooperation with industry and universities, and the importance of public communication in the development and implementation of new energy technologies was discussed.
Exploring Advanced Solutions
The guests visited the Center for Hydrogen Energy Technologies, where the head of the center, Dr. Šarūnas Varnagiris, presented ongoing research activities and innovations, as well as the potential for hydrogen technology development in Lithuania.
During the meeting, the main activities of LEI were presented, including research, innovations, and technologies developed at the center. The discussion also covered possible public outreach initiatives related to hydrogen and other energy solutions.
Research was presented on hydrogen production via methane pyrolysis using novel catalysts, hydrogen extraction using metal and alloy nanoparticles, and hydrogen storage using metal and alloy hydrides. Research on antibacterial materials for use in hydrogen storage and transportation systems was also discussed.
Innovative Research
The Ministry representatives were introduced to ongoing projects, including the development of an innovative catalyst and a technology that produces hydrogen and gamma-aluminum oxide from plasma-activated aluminum and water. Solutions for aluminum waste recycling were also presented, enabling both hydrogen production and clean aluminum recovery.
Additionally, studies on metal hydrides and their integration with fuel cells were introduced, as well as research into the chemical interactions between hydrogen and metals. Planned project activities were also discussed, such as hydrogen production from used photovoltaic cells and the application of unconventional bimetallic catalysts in methane pyrolysis.
During the visit, the guests were accompanied by LEI Director Dr. Saulius Gudžius, Deputy Director Dr. Robertas Poškas, Head of the Center for Hydrogen Energy Technologies Dr. Šarūnas Varnagiris, Senior Researcher Dr. Marius Urbonavičius, Head of the Laboratory of Nuclear Installation Safety Dr. Sigitas Rimkevičius, and International Cooperation Coordinator Monika Inčerytė.
The Lithuanian Energy Institute is a partner in the Interreg Baltic Sea Region project PlanHeat, which aims to promote sustainable local heat planning and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. A key element of the project is close collaboration with the PlanHeat Ambassador Cities and Regions, who are involved from the very beginning in developing and testing the project’s solutions.
We are proud that among the 22 Ambassador Cities and Regions from 7 Baltic Sea countries, Kaišiadorys District Municipality is representing Lithuania. Ambassadors support the development process by participating in surveys and interviews, testing proposed solutions in real-world settings, providing valuable feedback, taking part in workshops, trainings, and conferences, sharing the PlanHeat approach within their networks, and actively engaging in the activities of the Baltic Municipal Heating Network.
Their involvement is crucial for ensuring that the tools and guidelines developed within the project are practical, effective, and widely adopted by local authorities. This collaboration is mutually beneficial, offering Ambassadors early access to innovative approaches and helping them improve their own local heat planning strategies.
More about the project: https://www.lei.lt/en/projektas/planheat-en/
In June, Lance Berkey, a bachelor’s student studying physics and mathematics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), began a two-month internship at the Lithuanian Energy Institute. He came to Lithuania through the prestigious MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives (MISTI) program, which enables MIT students to participate in research and innovation projects abroad. Lithuania is one of the program’s partner countries, and LEI is one of the hosting institutions.
Focus on Lithuania
L. Berkey is interning at LEI’s Laboratory of Heat Equipment Research and Testing. His work focuses on molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of material degradation due to hydrogen infiltration. Currently, he is modeling deformation in the crystal lattice of alpha-iron to assess how hydrogen affects the stress–strain curves of the lattice.
Although L. Berkey studies physics and mathematics, his minor is in Eurasian studies. This partially influenced his decision to choose Lithuania as his internship destination.
“I was considering spending my summer internship in Europe, and Lithuania seemed particularly appealing. We have one Lithuanian professor at MIT who always speaks highly of the country, so I had already heard positive things. When I started looking for internship opportunities, the MISTI program coordinator suggested the Lithuanian Energy Institute. After my first conversation with LEI representatives, I realized this place was a perfect match for my skills and expectations – so I decided to come,” he explains.
A Valuable Experience
During his internship, L. Berkey carried out computer modeling and data analysis in the field of molecular dynamics, examining the damage caused by hydrogen infiltration in alpha-iron. As he is set to return to the U.S. at the end of July, he is now summarizing results and writing his final report.
According to him, hydrogen will play an increasingly significant role in the energy sector, making it crucial to understand its impact on materials. He appreciates the opportunity LEI provided to deepen both theoretical and practical knowledge in this field.
“My internship at the Institute truly stood out – I felt very free and independent here. The supervisors allowed me to work at my own pace, encouraged me to find solutions independently, but were always ready to help when needed. I really value that – independence in learning is extremely important. I was also impressed by the Institute itself – its size, modern infrastructure, variety of research, and the experienced scientists working here. I would definitely recommend an internship at LEI to any student interested in the energy sector,” he says with a smile.
Considering a Return
L. Berkey also enjoyed getting to know Lithuania and Kaunas. He was impressed by the friendliness of the locals, the green city environment, and the convenient infrastructure. Lithuania left a very positive impression on him, and he would like to return in the future.
“The internship at LEI opened up new perspectives for me. Until now, I was certain I wouldn’t pursue a PhD immediately after my master’s, but now I’m seriously considering it. I enjoyed doing research and working in the lab, so I think this could be a direction I take in the future,” L. Berkey concludes.
On July 8, international students currently undertaking internships at the Lithuanian Energy Institute (LEI) participated in an introductory tour of the Institute’s laboratories. During the visit, they explored six of LEI’s scientific divisions: the Center for Hydrogen Energy Technologies, the Plasma Processing Laboratory, the Laboratory of Materials Research and Testing, the Laboratory of Heat-Equipment Research and Testing, the Nuclear Engineering Laboratory, and the Laboratory of Combustion Processes.
Throughout the tour, the interns became acquainted with the infrastructure, ongoing scientific research, and achievements of these divisions. They had the opportunity to see advanced technologies and learn about innovative solutions being applied in various scientific and industrial fields to promote greater sustainability and efficiency. The students showed interest in the work of LEI researchers, asking questions about current projects and studies.
The visit to the laboratories helped the students gain a deeper understanding of LEI’s activities and the diversity of its scientific research, enriching their knowledge and experience at the Institute. This opportunity to explore LEI’s structure, the versatility of its scientific divisions, and their interactions allowed them to learn not only about the laboratory where they are doing their internship but also about other research units across the Institute.
