Hydrothermal Deoxygenation of Triglyceride aided by in-situ Hydrogen Production from Glycerol Reforming

Nowadays, many studies are engaged in improving sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) technologies to advance the utilization of cleaner energy sources and aviation fuels. However, as of today, SAF accounts for less than 1% of jet fuel consumption due to production costs associated with feedstocks, catalysts, and renewable hydrogen. Our project focuses on lowering SAF production costs, particularly addressing the high costs of precious metal catalysts, hydrogen production, and the challenges of utilizing vegetable or waste oils as feedstocks. Our objectives are twofold: First, we develop a catalytic system involving the SAF production process aided by glycerol reforming. Second, we intend to optimize the cost-effective bimetallic Pt-Pd catalysts.
The project offers valuable knowledge on converting waste into marketable products while simultaneously mitigating the environmental impact of our industrial sectors. Compared with conventional jet fuel, SAF has the potential to reduce GHG emissions by up to 94% depending on feedstock and technology pathways. Also, results would be published in top journals in the area. Thanks to the student exchange, investigating research methodologies at both institutions will be developed. The project will lead to stronger collaborations in the future.

Faculty Supervisor:

Melanie Hazlett

Student:

Partner:

Politecnico di Torino

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

Concordia University

Program: