Tailored bio-blendstocks with low environmental impact
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Partnerships: PSU, University of Michigan, Volvo Group Truck Technology, Marathon Petroleum
Monocultures can grow in ideal conditions but cannot replicate the same results when they are placed in outdoor raceway ponds, where they are more susceptible to external forces (e.g., diseases and foreign species of algae). To make up for this weakness, polycultures can instead be grown which are able to better weather any external factors and allow for an overall more stable feedstock, which in turn leads to more productivity. |
Our lab is tasked with conducting Hydrothermal Liquefaction on both feedstocks (mono and poly cultures), as well as catalytic upgrading of the bio-crude resulting from the process. We then optimize the bio-crude production and upgrading steps based on the feedback from our collaborators from University of Michigan, who are responsible for the fuel property and engine studies side of the collaborative project.
Previous Research:
Bita’s Research
Sesha’s Research