Sustainable Fuels and Chemicals

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Fossil fuels such as coal and petroleum are used as feedstocks for chemicals, transportation fuels, and energy. While economic growth is associated with energy consumption, the use of coal and petroleum leads to carbon dioxide release and climate change. One approach to curbing the effects of climate change is through the substitution of fossil fuel-based energy sources with renewable energy resources. Through the proposed program, we aim to develop innovative and energy efficient technologies for the efficient processing of renewable biomass and low-carbon feedstocks to chemicals and clean fuels. These new technologies will contribute to sustainable economic development, for the benefit of Canadians and, potentially, for societies globally. The new technologies to be developed will enable the conversion of glycerol, a by-product of biodiesel production , to higher-value chemicals such as 1,3-propanediol and 1-propanol. 1,3- Propanediol , currently made from petroleum feedstock, is used in the production of highperformance polymers. 1- Propanol is used as a solvent and could also be used as a fuel additive and as feedstock for propylene to make green polypropylene polymer. Upgrading the value of glycerol will translate into reduced costs for the production of biodiesel, and will increase the viability of the biodiesel industry. This proposal will also use catalytic distillation, an energy efficient reactor technology that combines reaction and separation in one distillation column, to produce clean transportation fuels from light hydrocarbons derived from biomass or low-carbon shale gas. Innovative research on the development of highly active and selective catalysts using state-of-the-art characterization techniques and reactor technology will be carried out to produce a high yield of the desired product with lower energy requirement. This research will provide training of highly qualified personnel to lead Canada into a competitive global market for sustainable chemicals and clean fuels. This research will benefit the Canadian economy by creating new business and clean technology jobs, and also help to reduce carbon emissions.