TECHNICAL PROGRAMME | Primary Energy Supply – Future Pathways
The Role of Biofuels as a Feedstock
Forum 6 | Hall 5 Digital Poster Plaza 1
15
October
12:00
14:00
UTC+3
This session delves into the innovative use of biofuels as a feedstock in various industries, emphasising their potential to contribute to sustainable production processes. The session will explore the latest advancements in biofuel technologies, feedstock optimisation, and the role of biofuels in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, with insights into the scientific principles, engineering challenges, and economic considerations involved in the utilisation of biofuels as a versatile feedstock.
Strategizing carbon neutral technologies & Ratification of International-Climate-Change Paris Agreement under UNFCCC, COP are critical drivers to promulgate carbon neutrality & holistic net Zero goal with Bio-gas as a potential candidate. Novel Heterogeneous Catalysis plays crucial role for selective oxidation of hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) to elemental sulphur (S) in bio-gas purification & is of paramount interest globally.
Bio-gas (primarily methane & carbon dioxide) is produced by Anaerobic Digestion (AD) of wet organic rich biomass. However, generated intermediate like hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, carbon dioxide, siloxanes & halogens lowers quality, selectivity & yield of harvested bio-gas. H₂S is notorious as it is toxic & corrosive. Selective Oxidation of H₂S to S using metal oxide-based catalysts (Vanadium & Iron oxides) & Carbon-based catalysts improves bio-gas quality, operational efficiency & prevents equipment damage.
Present paper critically reviews heterogeneous catalytic processes for Selective Oxidation of H₂S to elemental S in bio-gas contributing to sustainable & circular carbon economy. Advanced catalytic systems with robust reactor internals catering to optimised reaction parameters like temperature, O2/H2S ratio & H2O content affecting catalytic performance are analysed. Present paper elaborate parameters of catalysis in selective oxidation like catalyst efficiency, scalability, active sites regenerability, stability, adsorption strength, surface-to-volume ratio, metal-metal & metal support interaction & synergy of support with active metal sites being prudent factors of analysis including role of catalyst modifiers, inhibitors & enhancers.
Predictions of tailored heterogeneous active catalyst formulations for economic viability of selective oxidation technologies are elaborated with Noble/ non-noble catalysts support modifiers & enhancers (like magnesium, lanthanum, cobalt and chromium) that enhances gasification of coke precursors & slows coking surface reactions. Selectivity enhancement of catalysts by inhibiting thermodynamically unfavourable side reactions for desired conversion pathways; enhanced process energy efficiency due to more efficient catalysts with lower temperatures & pressures (due to altered activation energy); catalyst recyclability & reusability supplementing overall economics & environmental process impact; catalyst compatibility with impurities / contaminants laden feedstock and thereby being resistant to deactivation / poisoning by impurities and catalyst mechanism in bio-gas purification are discussed.
Study of Novel Heterogeneous catalysis for oxidation of H₂S to elemental S aims to establish that catalytic processes can be promising pathways for producing clean & industrially viable biogas & for pathways of producing VACs (Value Added Chemicals) from bio-gas. In Comparison, economic feasibility supplemented with positive green societal costs projects catalysis for biogas purification with in-situ integration of carbon neutral perspective. Hope this compilation will create lots of interest amongst researcher & practicing engineers active in Sulphur removal, Bio-fuels, Industrialist and environmentalist towards meeting net zero goals.
Bio-gas (primarily methane & carbon dioxide) is produced by Anaerobic Digestion (AD) of wet organic rich biomass. However, generated intermediate like hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, carbon dioxide, siloxanes & halogens lowers quality, selectivity & yield of harvested bio-gas. H₂S is notorious as it is toxic & corrosive. Selective Oxidation of H₂S to S using metal oxide-based catalysts (Vanadium & Iron oxides) & Carbon-based catalysts improves bio-gas quality, operational efficiency & prevents equipment damage.
Present paper critically reviews heterogeneous catalytic processes for Selective Oxidation of H₂S to elemental S in bio-gas contributing to sustainable & circular carbon economy. Advanced catalytic systems with robust reactor internals catering to optimised reaction parameters like temperature, O2/H2S ratio & H2O content affecting catalytic performance are analysed. Present paper elaborate parameters of catalysis in selective oxidation like catalyst efficiency, scalability, active sites regenerability, stability, adsorption strength, surface-to-volume ratio, metal-metal & metal support interaction & synergy of support with active metal sites being prudent factors of analysis including role of catalyst modifiers, inhibitors & enhancers.
Predictions of tailored heterogeneous active catalyst formulations for economic viability of selective oxidation technologies are elaborated with Noble/ non-noble catalysts support modifiers & enhancers (like magnesium, lanthanum, cobalt and chromium) that enhances gasification of coke precursors & slows coking surface reactions. Selectivity enhancement of catalysts by inhibiting thermodynamically unfavourable side reactions for desired conversion pathways; enhanced process energy efficiency due to more efficient catalysts with lower temperatures & pressures (due to altered activation energy); catalyst recyclability & reusability supplementing overall economics & environmental process impact; catalyst compatibility with impurities / contaminants laden feedstock and thereby being resistant to deactivation / poisoning by impurities and catalyst mechanism in bio-gas purification are discussed.
Study of Novel Heterogeneous catalysis for oxidation of H₂S to elemental S aims to establish that catalytic processes can be promising pathways for producing clean & industrially viable biogas & for pathways of producing VACs (Value Added Chemicals) from bio-gas. In Comparison, economic feasibility supplemented with positive green societal costs projects catalysis for biogas purification with in-situ integration of carbon neutral perspective. Hope this compilation will create lots of interest amongst researcher & practicing engineers active in Sulphur removal, Bio-fuels, Industrialist and environmentalist towards meeting net zero goals.
The global demand for biofuels has significantly increased in recent years due to their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels. Among biofuels, bioethanol has emerged as a key candidate for sustainable energy solutions, offering numerous benefits in terms of energy security, economic growth, and environmental preservation. However, the production and purification of bioethanol still face numerous challenges, particularly in terms of energy efficiency and cost. To address these issues, recent advancements in membrane technology have provided promising alternatives to conventional ethanol purification methods. Membrane-based processes such as pervaporation, reverse osmosis, and ultrafiltration are being increasingly integrated into bioethanol production to optimize energy usage and reduce operational costs. These processes, especially when combined with bioreactor technologies, enhance the overall efficiency of bioethanol production by enabling selective separation, high throughput, and the reduction of waste products. Moreover, innovations in mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) and the incorporation of nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes are further improving the performance and scalability of these systems. The continued development and optimization of these membrane technologies are expected to play a pivotal role in the future of bioethanol production, making it more sustainable and economically viable.
Keywords: Bioreactors, Bioethanol, Membrane Technology, Pervaporation, Sustainability.
Keywords: Bioreactors, Bioethanol, Membrane Technology, Pervaporation, Sustainability.
The increasing demand for sustainable energy sources has spurred significant research into syngas conversion technologies, particularly for the production of biofuels. Syngas, a mixture of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H2), is generated through the gasification of biomass and other organic materials and serves as a key feedstock for biofuel production. This paper explores various methods for converting syngas into valuable biofuels, including bioethanol, biomethanol, biohydrogen, and biobutanol. The Fischer-Tropsch (FT) process, utilizing metal catalysts, and syngas fermentation, employing microbial catalysts, are two prominent techniques discussed in detail. The FT process is a well-established method that converts syngas into liquid hydrocarbons, including diesel and gasoline, using catalysts like cobalt and iron. In contrast, syngas fermentation offers a biologically driven alternative, utilizing microorganisms to directly convert syngas into ethanol and other valuable by-products. The paper further examines the challenges and advantages associated with these processes, focusing on factors such as catalyst efficiency, process conditions, and the potential for scale-up. It also addresses the economic and environmental implications of syngas-derived biofuels, emphasizing the need for optimized reactor designs and improved mass transfer rates. The paper concludes with an outlook on the future of syngas conversion technologies, highlighting the potential for biofuels to play a central role in the transition towards a sustainable energy future.
Keywords: Biomethanol, Biohydrogen, Bioethanol, Fischer-Tropsch, Syngas fermentation.
Keywords: Biomethanol, Biohydrogen, Bioethanol, Fischer-Tropsch, Syngas fermentation.
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) represent a promising and sustainable technology for the conversion of bioenergy resources, particularly in the areas of wastewater treatment and biohydrogen production. By leveraging the metabolic activities of microorganisms, MFCs offer a unique method for generating electricity through the oxidation of organic substrates. Recent innovations have enabled the enhancement of MFC performance, such as optimizing microbial consortia, electrode materials, and environmental conditions, to achieve higher energy outputs and Coulombic efficiency. In addition to their application in energy production, MFCs are increasingly recognized for their role in addressing wastewater treatment challenges, effectively degrading organic compounds and reducing the environmental footprint of industrial effluents. Furthermore, MFCs can be adapted to produce biohydrogen, a valuable alternative fuel, by utilizing electrochemical processes that overcome thermodynamic barriers. The integration of MFCs into bioenergy systems represents a transformative approach, utilizing organic waste as a resource for both energy generation and environmental remediation. These advancements underscore the potential of MFCs in contributing to the global transition towards sustainable energy solutions, offering a versatile and eco-friendly alternative to traditional power generation methods.
Keywords: Biohydrogen, Biomass conversion, Microbial fuel cells (MFCs), Wastewater treatment, Renewable energy.
Keywords: Biohydrogen, Biomass conversion, Microbial fuel cells (MFCs), Wastewater treatment, Renewable energy.
The global transition toward sustainable energy demands innovative pathways that simultaneously address waste management and clean energy generation. Microbial valorization of lignocellulosic waste offers a scalable and eco-friendly solution to these challenges, advancing the circular economy while diversifying energy resources.
This work presents advancements in using thermophilic bacteria to transform agricultural residues into value-added feedstocks. In our recent studies, a thermophilic Geobacillus strain demonstrated efficient enzymatic hydrolysis of xylan, releasing approximately 4 g/L of xylose from an initial 10 g/L substrate concentration. Notably, the strain exhibited limited xylose consumption and variable acid production, resulting in xylose accumulation in the medium.
The limited metabolic use of xylose by this strain suggests a strategic advantage: enhancing bioethanol yields when integrated with xylose-fermenting yeasts, as higher free xylose availability improves fermentation efficiency. Furthermore, the thermophilic properties of the strain enable operation under harsh industrial conditions, reducing pretreatment intensity and energy requirements.
We also explored co-cultivation strategies to simulate bioethanol production environments, demonstrating improved energy yields and greater process stability. Integrating microbial biotechnology into energy systems not only boosts feedstock valorization but also significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, supporting decentralized, sustainable, and adaptable energy solutions. This study highlights microbial valorization as a key enabler for advancing biofuels as a versatile and sustainable feedstock in future energy systems.
This work presents advancements in using thermophilic bacteria to transform agricultural residues into value-added feedstocks. In our recent studies, a thermophilic Geobacillus strain demonstrated efficient enzymatic hydrolysis of xylan, releasing approximately 4 g/L of xylose from an initial 10 g/L substrate concentration. Notably, the strain exhibited limited xylose consumption and variable acid production, resulting in xylose accumulation in the medium.
The limited metabolic use of xylose by this strain suggests a strategic advantage: enhancing bioethanol yields when integrated with xylose-fermenting yeasts, as higher free xylose availability improves fermentation efficiency. Furthermore, the thermophilic properties of the strain enable operation under harsh industrial conditions, reducing pretreatment intensity and energy requirements.
We also explored co-cultivation strategies to simulate bioethanol production environments, demonstrating improved energy yields and greater process stability. Integrating microbial biotechnology into energy systems not only boosts feedstock valorization but also significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, supporting decentralized, sustainable, and adaptable energy solutions. This study highlights microbial valorization as a key enabler for advancing biofuels as a versatile and sustainable feedstock in future energy systems.
Fatemeh Haghighatjoo
Speaker
Researcher in Chemical Engineering
Department of Chemical Engineering, Shiraz University
The global demand for biofuels has significantly increased in recent years due to their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels. Among biofuels, bioethanol has emerged as a key candidate for sustainable energy solutions, offering numerous benefits in terms of energy security, economic growth, and environmental preservation. However, the production and purification of bioethanol still face numerous challenges, particularly in terms of energy efficiency and cost. To address these issues, recent advancements in membrane technology have provided promising alternatives to conventional ethanol purification methods. Membrane-based processes such as pervaporation, reverse osmosis, and ultrafiltration are being increasingly integrated into bioethanol production to optimize energy usage and reduce operational costs. These processes, especially when combined with bioreactor technologies, enhance the overall efficiency of bioethanol production by enabling selective separation, high throughput, and the reduction of waste products. Moreover, innovations in mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) and the incorporation of nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes are further improving the performance and scalability of these systems. The continued development and optimization of these membrane technologies are expected to play a pivotal role in the future of bioethanol production, making it more sustainable and economically viable.
Keywords: Bioreactors, Bioethanol, Membrane Technology, Pervaporation, Sustainability.
Keywords: Bioreactors, Bioethanol, Membrane Technology, Pervaporation, Sustainability.
Strategizing carbon neutral technologies & Ratification of International-Climate-Change Paris Agreement under UNFCCC, COP are critical drivers to promulgate carbon neutrality & holistic net Zero goal with Bio-gas as a potential candidate. Novel Heterogeneous Catalysis plays crucial role for selective oxidation of hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) to elemental sulphur (S) in bio-gas purification & is of paramount interest globally.
Bio-gas (primarily methane & carbon dioxide) is produced by Anaerobic Digestion (AD) of wet organic rich biomass. However, generated intermediate like hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, carbon dioxide, siloxanes & halogens lowers quality, selectivity & yield of harvested bio-gas. H₂S is notorious as it is toxic & corrosive. Selective Oxidation of H₂S to S using metal oxide-based catalysts (Vanadium & Iron oxides) & Carbon-based catalysts improves bio-gas quality, operational efficiency & prevents equipment damage.
Present paper critically reviews heterogeneous catalytic processes for Selective Oxidation of H₂S to elemental S in bio-gas contributing to sustainable & circular carbon economy. Advanced catalytic systems with robust reactor internals catering to optimised reaction parameters like temperature, O2/H2S ratio & H2O content affecting catalytic performance are analysed. Present paper elaborate parameters of catalysis in selective oxidation like catalyst efficiency, scalability, active sites regenerability, stability, adsorption strength, surface-to-volume ratio, metal-metal & metal support interaction & synergy of support with active metal sites being prudent factors of analysis including role of catalyst modifiers, inhibitors & enhancers.
Predictions of tailored heterogeneous active catalyst formulations for economic viability of selective oxidation technologies are elaborated with Noble/ non-noble catalysts support modifiers & enhancers (like magnesium, lanthanum, cobalt and chromium) that enhances gasification of coke precursors & slows coking surface reactions. Selectivity enhancement of catalysts by inhibiting thermodynamically unfavourable side reactions for desired conversion pathways; enhanced process energy efficiency due to more efficient catalysts with lower temperatures & pressures (due to altered activation energy); catalyst recyclability & reusability supplementing overall economics & environmental process impact; catalyst compatibility with impurities / contaminants laden feedstock and thereby being resistant to deactivation / poisoning by impurities and catalyst mechanism in bio-gas purification are discussed.
Study of Novel Heterogeneous catalysis for oxidation of H₂S to elemental S aims to establish that catalytic processes can be promising pathways for producing clean & industrially viable biogas & for pathways of producing VACs (Value Added Chemicals) from bio-gas. In Comparison, economic feasibility supplemented with positive green societal costs projects catalysis for biogas purification with in-situ integration of carbon neutral perspective. Hope this compilation will create lots of interest amongst researcher & practicing engineers active in Sulphur removal, Bio-fuels, Industrialist and environmentalist towards meeting net zero goals.
Bio-gas (primarily methane & carbon dioxide) is produced by Anaerobic Digestion (AD) of wet organic rich biomass. However, generated intermediate like hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, carbon dioxide, siloxanes & halogens lowers quality, selectivity & yield of harvested bio-gas. H₂S is notorious as it is toxic & corrosive. Selective Oxidation of H₂S to S using metal oxide-based catalysts (Vanadium & Iron oxides) & Carbon-based catalysts improves bio-gas quality, operational efficiency & prevents equipment damage.
Present paper critically reviews heterogeneous catalytic processes for Selective Oxidation of H₂S to elemental S in bio-gas contributing to sustainable & circular carbon economy. Advanced catalytic systems with robust reactor internals catering to optimised reaction parameters like temperature, O2/H2S ratio & H2O content affecting catalytic performance are analysed. Present paper elaborate parameters of catalysis in selective oxidation like catalyst efficiency, scalability, active sites regenerability, stability, adsorption strength, surface-to-volume ratio, metal-metal & metal support interaction & synergy of support with active metal sites being prudent factors of analysis including role of catalyst modifiers, inhibitors & enhancers.
Predictions of tailored heterogeneous active catalyst formulations for economic viability of selective oxidation technologies are elaborated with Noble/ non-noble catalysts support modifiers & enhancers (like magnesium, lanthanum, cobalt and chromium) that enhances gasification of coke precursors & slows coking surface reactions. Selectivity enhancement of catalysts by inhibiting thermodynamically unfavourable side reactions for desired conversion pathways; enhanced process energy efficiency due to more efficient catalysts with lower temperatures & pressures (due to altered activation energy); catalyst recyclability & reusability supplementing overall economics & environmental process impact; catalyst compatibility with impurities / contaminants laden feedstock and thereby being resistant to deactivation / poisoning by impurities and catalyst mechanism in bio-gas purification are discussed.
Study of Novel Heterogeneous catalysis for oxidation of H₂S to elemental S aims to establish that catalytic processes can be promising pathways for producing clean & industrially viable biogas & for pathways of producing VACs (Value Added Chemicals) from bio-gas. In Comparison, economic feasibility supplemented with positive green societal costs projects catalysis for biogas purification with in-situ integration of carbon neutral perspective. Hope this compilation will create lots of interest amongst researcher & practicing engineers active in Sulphur removal, Bio-fuels, Industrialist and environmentalist towards meeting net zero goals.
Soheila Zandi Lak
Speaker
Researcher in Chemical Engineering
Department of Chemical Engineering, Shiraz University
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) represent a promising and sustainable technology for the conversion of bioenergy resources, particularly in the areas of wastewater treatment and biohydrogen production. By leveraging the metabolic activities of microorganisms, MFCs offer a unique method for generating electricity through the oxidation of organic substrates. Recent innovations have enabled the enhancement of MFC performance, such as optimizing microbial consortia, electrode materials, and environmental conditions, to achieve higher energy outputs and Coulombic efficiency. In addition to their application in energy production, MFCs are increasingly recognized for their role in addressing wastewater treatment challenges, effectively degrading organic compounds and reducing the environmental footprint of industrial effluents. Furthermore, MFCs can be adapted to produce biohydrogen, a valuable alternative fuel, by utilizing electrochemical processes that overcome thermodynamic barriers. The integration of MFCs into bioenergy systems represents a transformative approach, utilizing organic waste as a resource for both energy generation and environmental remediation. These advancements underscore the potential of MFCs in contributing to the global transition towards sustainable energy solutions, offering a versatile and eco-friendly alternative to traditional power generation methods.
Keywords: Biohydrogen, Biomass conversion, Microbial fuel cells (MFCs), Wastewater treatment, Renewable energy.
Keywords: Biohydrogen, Biomass conversion, Microbial fuel cells (MFCs), Wastewater treatment, Renewable energy.
Sharareh Harirchi
Speaker
Assistant Professor
Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology
The global transition toward sustainable energy demands innovative pathways that simultaneously address waste management and clean energy generation. Microbial valorization of lignocellulosic waste offers a scalable and eco-friendly solution to these challenges, advancing the circular economy while diversifying energy resources.
This work presents advancements in using thermophilic bacteria to transform agricultural residues into value-added feedstocks. In our recent studies, a thermophilic Geobacillus strain demonstrated efficient enzymatic hydrolysis of xylan, releasing approximately 4 g/L of xylose from an initial 10 g/L substrate concentration. Notably, the strain exhibited limited xylose consumption and variable acid production, resulting in xylose accumulation in the medium.
The limited metabolic use of xylose by this strain suggests a strategic advantage: enhancing bioethanol yields when integrated with xylose-fermenting yeasts, as higher free xylose availability improves fermentation efficiency. Furthermore, the thermophilic properties of the strain enable operation under harsh industrial conditions, reducing pretreatment intensity and energy requirements.
We also explored co-cultivation strategies to simulate bioethanol production environments, demonstrating improved energy yields and greater process stability. Integrating microbial biotechnology into energy systems not only boosts feedstock valorization but also significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, supporting decentralized, sustainable, and adaptable energy solutions. This study highlights microbial valorization as a key enabler for advancing biofuels as a versatile and sustainable feedstock in future energy systems.
This work presents advancements in using thermophilic bacteria to transform agricultural residues into value-added feedstocks. In our recent studies, a thermophilic Geobacillus strain demonstrated efficient enzymatic hydrolysis of xylan, releasing approximately 4 g/L of xylose from an initial 10 g/L substrate concentration. Notably, the strain exhibited limited xylose consumption and variable acid production, resulting in xylose accumulation in the medium.
The limited metabolic use of xylose by this strain suggests a strategic advantage: enhancing bioethanol yields when integrated with xylose-fermenting yeasts, as higher free xylose availability improves fermentation efficiency. Furthermore, the thermophilic properties of the strain enable operation under harsh industrial conditions, reducing pretreatment intensity and energy requirements.
We also explored co-cultivation strategies to simulate bioethanol production environments, demonstrating improved energy yields and greater process stability. Integrating microbial biotechnology into energy systems not only boosts feedstock valorization but also significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, supporting decentralized, sustainable, and adaptable energy solutions. This study highlights microbial valorization as a key enabler for advancing biofuels as a versatile and sustainable feedstock in future energy systems.
Mohammad Reza Rahimpour
Speaker
Professor of Chemical Engineering
Department of Chemical Engineering, Shiraz University
The increasing demand for sustainable energy sources has spurred significant research into syngas conversion technologies, particularly for the production of biofuels. Syngas, a mixture of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H2), is generated through the gasification of biomass and other organic materials and serves as a key feedstock for biofuel production. This paper explores various methods for converting syngas into valuable biofuels, including bioethanol, biomethanol, biohydrogen, and biobutanol. The Fischer-Tropsch (FT) process, utilizing metal catalysts, and syngas fermentation, employing microbial catalysts, are two prominent techniques discussed in detail. The FT process is a well-established method that converts syngas into liquid hydrocarbons, including diesel and gasoline, using catalysts like cobalt and iron. In contrast, syngas fermentation offers a biologically driven alternative, utilizing microorganisms to directly convert syngas into ethanol and other valuable by-products. The paper further examines the challenges and advantages associated with these processes, focusing on factors such as catalyst efficiency, process conditions, and the potential for scale-up. It also addresses the economic and environmental implications of syngas-derived biofuels, emphasizing the need for optimized reactor designs and improved mass transfer rates. The paper concludes with an outlook on the future of syngas conversion technologies, highlighting the potential for biofuels to play a central role in the transition towards a sustainable energy future.
Keywords: Biomethanol, Biohydrogen, Bioethanol, Fischer-Tropsch, Syngas fermentation.
Keywords: Biomethanol, Biohydrogen, Bioethanol, Fischer-Tropsch, Syngas fermentation.
