METHODS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF BIOLOGICAL CRUDE OIL

Abstract

When thermochemical liquefaction of lignocellulosic biomass is performed using recycled product oil as a solvent, the yield can be substantially increased by the addition of short-chain alcohol reactants such as ethanol or methanol. A synergistic effect is thus achieved where the yield is increased over time using either recycled product oil or alcohol alone. The combination of recycled product oil and alcohol reactants allows for high conversions at operating pressures much lower than those typically applied in alcohol solvolysis, typically in the range of 30–60 bar. The liquefaction reaction occurs at subcritical pressures where the alcohol acts as a gaseous reactant rather than a solvent.

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