Applied Bioenergy and Biowaste Utilization

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The bioenergy-based economy seems most suitable to complement the current fossil fuel-based energy systems prior to potential introduction of the hydrogen economy in the future. This project proposes a comprehensive approach in which biowaste, as a renewable energy source, is converted to biodiesel and synthetic gas. The supercritical water (SCW) environment will improve significantly the energy balance by eliminating the need for drying (sustaining SCW requires only 12% of the total energy produced). We are interested in biowaste because it is simply clean stored solar energy. The majority of previous SCW studies used either pure or model compounds (e.g., cellulose) to extrapolate biomass behavior. We selected two types of real biowaste: (1) a beetle-infested mountain pine, and (2) a mixture of agricultural residues. They are available in Canada in commercial quantities. A novel concept will be applied for the in situ hydrothermal utilization of biowaste, while SCW combustion will be studied in a unique synchrotron setting. This novel experimental arrangement will allow, for the first time, for simultaneous observation of the behavior and measurement of species formed in the SCW combustion process. New data will be obtained revealing detailed process and product characteristics. This innovative approach is based on a one-step process involving synchronized dehydrogenation, hydrolysis and oxidation. Hence, it is expected to be less expensive than traditional biowaste combustion. It is known that bioenergy may help reduce detrimental environmental impacts. In order to be a successful energy management option, it must be accomplished in a cost-effective and energy-efficient manner without creating ecological risks. This is precisely what our project has to offer.