Paper details

Title:

Valorization of Lignocellulosic Biomass Forest Residues in Quebec via the Integrated Hydropyrolysis and Hydroconversion (IH²) Technology

Author(s):

Ganesan, A., Rezazgui, O., Barco Burgos, J., Mangin, P.J.

Document(s):

Abstract:

Residual and unused sources of lignocellulosic biomass, such as branches, wood chips, leaves and other logging residues from Quebec's forests can be thermochemically valorized into hydrocarbons-rich renewable fuels that are viable substitutes for conventional fossil oil in the transportation sector. Since the past decade, a new method called Integrated Hydropyrolysis and Hydroconversion (IH2) is being investigated by several researchers as a novel pyrolytic technique to convert a diverse range of biomass feedstock into biooil, harboring physicochemical properties similar to petroleum and diesel. It produces appreciable yields of biochar and CO2 also, that have a significant market value and could in fact contribute to added plant revenue. Typically, IH2 aims to combine the rapid depolymerization of biomass with downstream hydrotreatment of pyrolytic vapors – both unit operations functioning in the presence of respective engineered catalysts and elevated H2 pressure, that could maximize overall carbon conversion in the resulting bio-oil. Presently, this number stands approximately at 45% with an overall biooil yield of around 27 wt%. To maintain a low carbon intensity of the biofuel produced, this external H2 should be as "green" as possible, i.e. have a carbon intensity lower than 36.4 g CO2eq/MJ (EU standard). Albeit, there were notable characteristics that required additional clarity regarding the catalysts employed in IH2. These include its: selection basis of appropriate catalysts, formulation, physical stability, extent of coking, long-term operability, regeneration, surface characterization (acidity, porosity), and mechanisms for interaction with H2 and hydropyrolytic vapors. Hence, this review predominantly includes a detailed screening of potential catalysts integral to IH2 reactions, analyzing the overall potential for this technology to flourish, and the associated drawbacks that need more attention for it to reach at least a demonstration-scale feasibility as soon as possible, considering its promising results.

Keywords:

biorefinery, hydrogen, lignocellulose, pyrolysis oil, catalyst, biomass to liquid (BtL)

Topic:

Biomass Conversion to Intermediate Bioenergy Carriers and Sustainable Biofuels

Subtopic:

Pyrolysis

Event:

31st European Biomass Conference and Exhibition

Session:

5CO.7.1

Pages:

828 - 864

ISBN:

978-88-89407-23-3

Paper DOI:

10.5071/31stEUBCE2023-5CO.7.1

Price:

FREE