Method for producing bio-crude oil

Abstract

Thermochemical liquefaction of lignocellulosic biomass is carried out using recycled product oil as a solvent, and yields can be significantly increased by adding a short-chain alcohol reactant, such as ethanol or methanol. This provides a synergistic effect, improving liquefaction over the use of either recycled product oil or alcohol alone. The combination of recycled product oil and alcohol reactant allows for high conversion rates at operating pressures significantly lower than those typically applied in alcohol solvolysis, which are in the range of 30-60 bar. The liquefaction reaction occurs at subcritical pressures, where the alcohol acts as a gaseous reactant and not as a solvent.