PRODUCTION OF BIOFUEL FROM BIOMASS USING HYDROTHERMAL LIQUEFACTION

This study investigates the production of biofuel from biomass using hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL), a thermochemical conversion process that transforms wet biomass into liquid bio-crude under high temperature and pressure conditions. The growing demand for sustainable and renewable energy sources has intensified interest in biomass as an alternative to fossil fuels. Hydrothermal liquefaction offers significant advantages over conventional conversion methods because it can process high-moisture biomass without the need for energy-intensive drying. The study examines the efficiency of HTL in converting different types of biomass, such as agricultural residues, algae, and organic waste, into bio-crude oil. Experimental procedures were conducted under controlled temperature and pressure conditions to determine optimal parameters for maximum yield and energy recovery. The results indicate that temperature, residence time, and catalyst presence significantly influence the quality and quantity of the produced biofuel. Findings reveal that hydrothermal liquefaction produces a high-energy-density bio-crude with properties comparable to conventional fossil fuels after upgrading. However, challenges such as high operational costs, reactor design limitations, and the need for further refining of the bio-crude remain significant. The study concludes that HTL is a promising and efficient technology for biofuel production from biomass, with the potential to contribute to sustainable energy development. It recommends further research into cost reduction, process optimization, and large-scale commercialization of the technology.