Thermochemical conversion is a broad classification of technologies, including combustion, gasification, pyrolysis, torrefaction, and liquifaction, utilizing temperature and pressure rather than chemical or biological catalysts or enzymes for the production of desired chemicals or fuels. Thermochemical conversion technologies may be applied to fossil and biogenic feedstocks – their action to decompose complex organic molecules to…
Biofuels experts work with biofuels as a replacement for petroleum-derived fossil fuels. They are derived from biomass and should be made via processes that meet lifecycle requirements and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. There are currently four generations of biofuels. First-generation biofuels include ethanol and biodiesel and are directly related to biomass that is often edible.…
What does a hydroprocessing expert or hydroprocessing consultant do? Hydroprocessing refers to any of several chemical engineering processes including hydrogenation, hydrocracking, and hydrotreating, especially as part of biofuels or oil refining. Hydroprocessing experts can design processes using hydrogen to upgrade biofuels and renewable chemicals. Hydroprocessing is used to remove oxygen, sulfur, and nitrogen from biomass-derived…
What do pilot plant experts do? Pilot plant experts work closely with research scientists to scale chemical and biological processes. They are familiar with the four scales associated with process development – lab, pilot, demonstration, production – and the benefits and challenges associated with each. They need a strong grasp of chemical, mechanical, electrical, instrumentation…
What is hydrothermal carbonization and what does a hydrothermal carbonization expert do? Hydrothermal Carbonization (HTC) is a process that is capable of converting organic matter into carbon-rich substances in the presence of water, at temperatures of about 190–260°C. Consequently, this process is suitable for waste valorization, as high moisture content waste feedstocks such as agricultural…
What is torrefaction and what does a torrefaction expert do? Torrefaction is the roasting of any solid biomass in an inert atmosphere. Some of the volatile components of the feedstock are driven off in form of Syngas that can be used to fuel the process plus generate thermal or electrical energy. The solid part is…
What do agitation experts do within the bioeconomy? Very simply, the agitation expert consults with clients on the design and application of agitation systems. This may include calculating power, shaft speed, and impeller systems for any given application. Agitation consulting may also include the designing of experiments to ascertain the exact agitation required, and assistance…
What do technical due diligence experts in renewable fuels or renewable chemicals do? Biotechnical due diligence or renewable due diligence(DD) is a comprehensive appraisal of a biomass process undertaken by a prospective manufacturer or investor, to establish its technical viability and evaluate its commercial potential. The process may be an existing bioprocess, it may…