Thermo-catalytic processes area was conceived with the mandate to carry out research and process development in the area of thermo-catalytic conversion of biomass. Under this umbrella, the area has been carrying out projects on fast pyrolysis, hydropyrolysis, carbonisation, hydrothermal liquefaction etc. Various types of feedstocks ranging from agricultural crop residues, forestry wastes, de-oiled cakes, invasive weeds, aquatic weeds and different species of algae have been studied for the different processes as mentioned above.
Preliminary understanding of the various processes and the effect of feedstocks is being carried out using the sophisticated instruments available such as TG-DTA, Py-GC/MS etc. Kinetics of the process and the estimation of thermodynamic properties are of great help in the process development. The understanding of the decomposition behaviour of individual components of lignocellulosic biomass (cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin) helps in the valorisation of by-products of various processes.
In addition to the optimisation of parameters for the developed processes, the area also looks into the various options available for the application of the products. In case of bio-char, possibilities of using the same for catalytic applications, adsorption processes etc. are being explored. Bio-oil, the liquid product from the process, has been studied for its utilisation as bunker/ furnace fuel, feedstock for petrol/diesel/chemicals/petrochemicals production by integrating with refinery operations. In addition, identification of the medicinal and repellent properties of bio-oil is also under the scanner of the area.
The area also provides consultancy services to the industry to understand the end-user requirements, supply demand scenario and market potential of various products in a tailor made fashion.
