CABBI resedarchers explore nanocatalysts to produce SAF precursors from wet waste

In Illinois, wet wastes, including food waste and biomass, are promising candidates for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production due to their triglyceride content, which can be converted into biocrude via hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL). SAF precursors must meet criteria derived from conventional fuels (e.g., Jet A), including complete oxygen removal to prevent jet engine corrosion and a higher heating value (HHV) close to Jet A. Currently, no HTL-derived biocrude meets these.

A new study, with contributions from researchers at the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI), has explored using zeolite-supported molybdenum carbide (Mo2C) nanocatalysts to upgrade wet waste-derived biocrudes into SAF precursors that meet all essential criteria for the first time. The paper is published in the journal Science Advances.