A Convergent Approach for a Deep Converting Lignin-First Biorefinery Rendering High-Energy-Density Drop-in Fuels

Zhengwen Cao, Michael Dierks, Matthew Thomas Clough, Ilton Barros Daltro de Castro, Roberto Rinaldi

Index: 10.1016/j.joule.2018.03.012

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Abstract

Herein, a lignin-centered convergent approach to produce either aliphatic or aromatic bio-hydrocarbons is introduced. First, poplar or spruce wood was deconstructed by a lignin-first biorefining process, a technique based on the early-stage catalytic conversion of lignin, yielding lignin oils along with cellulosic pulps. Next, the lignin oils were catalytically upgraded in the presence of a phosphidated Ni/SiO2catalyst under H2pressure. Notably, selectivity toward aliphatics or aromatics can simply be adjusted by changes in H2pressure and temperature. The process renders two distinct main cuts of branched hydrocarbons (gasoline: C6-C10, and kerosene/diesel: C14-C20). As the approach is H2-intensive, we examined the utilization of pulp as an H2source via gasification. For several biomass sources, the H2obtainable by gasification stoichiometrically meets the H2demand of the deep converting lignin-first biorefinery, making this concept plausible for the production of high-energy-density drop-in biofuels.