Optimization of process equipment and parameters for upgrading bio-oil by catalytic hydrodeoxygenation (HDO)

In recent years, clean and renewable energy sources are urgently needed to partially or completely replace the fossil fuels (e.g., natural gas, petroleum, and coal). Bio-oil derived from fast pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction of lignocellulosic biomass usually contains a high oxygen content (30-50%), leading to a relatively low heating value, high viscosity and poor stability. Catalytic hydro-de-oxygenation (HDO) on the other hand, is one of the most promising ways to upgrade bio-oils. SixRingTM delignification of biomass is a disruptive process that enables the conversion of underutilized lignocellulosic resources into Lignin Hemicellulose Depolymerization Organics (LHDO) and fully delignified cellulose under ambient conditions. In this project, optimization of catalytic HDO will be investigation to develop cost-effective processes for producing high-quality bio-fuels and upgrade SixRingTM bio-oil into commercially viable fuel.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dominic Pjontek

Student:

Partner:

SixRing Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

The University of Western Ontario

Program: