Technical and market evaluation of production of stabilized pyrolysis oil via catalytic hydrotreatment

Purpose and goal

The aim of the project is to develop the previously demonstrated hypothesis - Verification of production of stabilized pyrolysis oil at Cortus, and evaluate catalytic hydrogen treatment of pyrolysis vapors from technical and market perspectives, for cost-effective production of stable pyrolysis oil. The sub-goals of the project are: - Suggest a catalyst with good properties with regards to product composition, robustness and cost - Evaluate the effect of hydrogen and steam concentration on the catalytic process - Evaluate the potential from market and sustainability perspective

Expected effects and result

The desired results is to find robust catalysts with a long service life that enable a cost-effective process. The process shall generate a stable pyrolysis oil that can be handled and transported without being degraded and, consequently, also be upgraded more easily to biofuel in existing refinery processes. In this way, production problems that currently limit the mixing of bio-based streams in existing refinery processes can be minimized, which in turn strengthens the conditions for a higher proportion of renewable fuels and chemicals.

Planned approach and implementation

The project will be implemented as a number of work packages, with focus on practical tests. Preparatory tests are carried out in the lab to screen for relevant parameters and a suitable catalyst. After that, longer tests are run on site at Cortus´ facility, in a test rig that is designed and constructed during the first part of the project. Analysis of oil product and catalysts will be carried out by the project parties. Finally, a study focusing on economics, market and sustainability will be made to put the technical results in a bigger perspective for assessment of its potential.