Applied Bioenergy and Biowaste Remediation

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The combustion in supercritical water (SCW) is probably one of the most unexplored processes. When water approaches its critical point (375°C and 22.1 MPa), it becomes homogeneous and behaves more like a non-polar solvent than a polar liquid water, stimulating complete dissolution of organics and gases. Hydrogen-bonded, clustered water molecules dissociate at supercritical conditions, forming dimmers or tetrahedron. When oxygen is introduced into such system, oxidation of organics takes place in a homogeneous phase, which greatly reduces diffusion-controlled reactions and enables kinetic-controlled reactions. Therefore, oxidation in SCW proceeds much faster that an oxidation either in liquids or gases. In this research, a novel concept is applied for in situ study of SCW based options enhancing sustainable energy systems. We will obtain original data on the fundamental behavior of selected biomass in SCW, their structural/chemical evolution, mechanistic explanation of the formation pathways as well as their complex interactions. We are interested in biowaste because it is simply clean stored solar energy. The proposed Research Program will consist of two parallel Research Projects. The first project (Biowaste Utilization in Supercritical Water) will be based on our previous observations of behavior of organics in SCW systems. This research will develop new ways of biowaste conversion to biofuels. The second project (Hydrothermal Flames) will continue the applicant's search for new applications of SCW-based techniques. Hydrothermal combustion techniques are still tabulae rasae from the technological point of view with many ideas still to be discovered. Both projects will converge, in the final phase, during their integration at the Canadian Light Synchrotron. This novel experimental arrangement will allow for simultaneous observation of the behavior and measurement of species formed in SCW flames. This innovative approach is based on a one-step process involving synchronized dehydrogenation, hydrolysis and oxidation. The proposed program will have scaling up potential for commercialization of SCW-based technologies for energy generation and waste remediation. It will train HQPs for process and product development and application. This program could complement Canada's initiatives towards greenhouse gas mitigation, circular bioeconomy, waste management and production of clean energy. Its outcomes will be translated into practical applications under partnered industrial settings integrating deliverables with other bioenergy processes, thereby providing a comprehensive and direct solution for adequate energy supply and waste valorization. It is known that bioenergy may help reduce detrimental environmental impacts. In order to be a successful sustainable energy management option, it must be accomplished in a cost effective and energy efficient manner without creating ecological risks. This is precisely what our Research Program has to offer.