Thermochemical Valorisation of residual biomass to High Value Molecules and Energy

Identifier:  TDX:4382

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX4382

Authors:  Cheikh Wafa, Jacky

Abstract:
Regarding the drawbacks of fossil fuels, such as environmental impact and resource depletion, biofuels is seen to be as a more sustainable alternative derived from organic materials. Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) is a thermochemical process that converts biomass into biocrude, biochar, aqueous phase, and biogas. The study focuses on optimizing HTL conditions, finding that higher temperatures and longer reaction times improve biocrude yield and quality. The addition of CuSO4 catalyst and pure methanol as a solvent have both enhanced the biocrude yield. Comparisons with other biomasses show that primary sludge offers the best conversion efficiency. Despite optimizations, the biocrude produced does not meet fossil fuel standards due to high content of heavy compounds, suggesting further processing (hydrotreating and hydrocracking).