Fuels from Biomass Using Unique Micro/Nano Systems

The U.S has established a goal to replace 30% of our current petroleum consumption with renewable fuels by 2030. Current technology cannot meet this goal due to (1) limitations in potential feedstock supplies (corn-based ethanol), (2) prohibitive costs, and (3) immature or non-existent technologies. Therefore, new cost-effective technologies that can convert cellulosic biomass are required. This project will develop and commercialize new modular reactors for the small-scale conversion of biosyngas to transportation fuels (ethanol and higher alcohols). These reactors, based on Fischer-Trospch chemistry, will employ unique features to maximize selectivity and productivity while at the same time minimizing cost. These features include bottom-up processing of catalyst coatings to enhance selectivity, improved tolerance to impurities, reduced catalyst loading, and new microreactor technology that reduces manufacturing costs and enhances conversion efficiency. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The technology should have a significant effect on the processing of biomass into liquid fuels and/or chemicals on a scale that is appropriate for the distributed nature of biomass. The modular reactors could be transported to point-of-origin biomass processing facilities. Other uses include the processing of isolated pockets of natural gas, flue gases from industrial plants, and waste CO2. More generally, smaller reactor systems could find use in specialty chemicals and fuel processing.