Project: Production of biofuels and chemicals via Ni-Cu catalyzed hydrodeoxygenation of furfural and its aldol condensates

2019-11-01 – 2023-10-31

Abstract

Due to the depletion of fossil resources and the environmental concerns about the use of these feedstocks, it is important to investigate the exploitation of alternatives, preferably of a renewable origin. Lignocellulose is a widely available type of biomass that does not compete with the food industry and can be converted into jet and diesel fuels as well as chemicals via a route that includes aldol condensation and hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) reactions. Although biomass-derived molecules are chemically very different from petroleum-based ones, the present generation of HDO catalysts are still based on the ones used in the petroleum industry. This project proposal aims to replace these catalysts by innovative Ni-Cu catalysts specifically designed for renewable components. It is expected to lead to an increased catalytic activity, a lower energy demand of the process, a better steering towards the desired product spectrum as well as a reduced cost of the final products. Secondly, a simulation tool will be developed that can provide guidelines on the necessary feedstock purity as well as which catalyst and reaction conditions that needs to be used to efficiently produce a product that meets specifications imposed based on the market demands.