Scenarios for integration of bio-liquids in existing REFINERY processes

4REFINERY will develop and demonstrate the production of next generation biofuels from more efficient primary liquefaction routes integrated with upgraded downstream (hydro)refining processes to achieve overall carbon yields of >45%. The consortium will aim for successful deployment into existing refineries, including delivering a comprehensive toolbox for interfacing with existing refinery models.

The main objectives of 4REFINERY are:
• To develop new biofuels production technology while at the same time increase understanding and control of the entire value chain
• To scale up testing procedures and define scenarios for the best further implementation in existing refineries
• To develop solutions to answer key societal & environmental challenges

The project will focus on the transformation of bio-liquids from fast pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction into advanced biofuels, through intermediate process steps combined with downstream co-processing technologies. The goal will be to bring these technologies from TRL3-4 to TRL4-5. The project will establish relations between product’s properties, the quality of renewable feedstocks and all relevant process parameters along the value chain. The study of these combinations will allow a full understanding of the influence of feedstock and treatment processes on product characteristics.

4REFINERY will (i) use inexpensive biomass, (ii) require low capital cost processes at small scale, (iii) reduce costs for further treatment due to scaling up and reduction in OPEX and (iv) leverage existing infrastructure, ensuring the new developments can be rapidly implemented at a commercial scale for production of biofuel with competitive prices compared to its alternatives.