![]() ![]() Microchannel mini-reactors greatly increase the efficiency of biofuel chemical conversion. Also called additive manufacturing, 3D printing allows the research team to create a pleated honeycomb of mini-reactors that greatly increase the effective surface-area-to-volume ratio available for the reaction. ![]() In a leap toward commercialization, PNNL is partnering with long-time collaborators at Oregon State University to integrate the patented chemical conversion process into microchannel reactors built using newly developed 3D printing technology. Once modular, scaled processing has been demonstrated, this approach offers a realistic option for localized, distributed energy production." "We have reduced the complexity and improved efficiency of the process, while simultaneously reducing capital costs. Additionally, the scale of biomass drives the need for smaller, distributed processing plants," said Vanessa Dagle, co-primary investigator of the initial research study, which was published in the journal ACS Catalysis. "Biomass is a challenging source of renewable energy because of its high cost. Using sustainably derived n-butene as a starting point, existing processes can further refine the chemical for multiple commercial uses, including diesel and jet fuels, and industrial lubricants. The new technology reduces emissions of carbon dioxide by using renewable or recycled carbon feedstocks. Currently, n-butene is produced from fossil-based feedstocks using the energy-intensive cracking-or breaking down-of large molecules. The new process would provide a more efficient route for converting renewable and waste-derived ethanol to useful chemicals. A microchannel reactor design further reduces costs while delivering a scalable modular processing system. The new PNNL-patented catalyst converts biofuel (ethanol) directly into a versatile "platform" chemical called n-butene. Two key technologies power the energy-efficient fuel production units.Ī single-step chemical conversion streamlines what is currently a multi-step process.
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