Presentation Profile
Determination of Total Sulfur in Biocrude by Gas Chromatography (GC) with a Pulsed Flame Photometric Detector (PFPD)
Currently Scheduled: 10/11/2023 - 9:30 AM - 9:50 AM
Main Author
Cynthia Elmore - OI Analytical, Xylem Lab Solutions
- Jakob Woodside - OI Analytical, Xylem Lab solutions
- Julian Bennett - Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Aidin Panahi - Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Michael Timko - Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Abstract:
Determination of Total Sulfur in Biocrude by Gas Chromatography (GC) with a Pulsed Flame Photometric Detector (PFPD) Cynthia Elmore, Senior Analyst, Product Management, cynthia.elmore@xylem.com, OI Analytical, Xylem Lab Solutions Jakob Woodside, Associate Product Manager, Jakob.woodside@xylem.com, OI Analytical, Xylem Lab Solutions Julian Bennett, PhD Candidate, jabennett@wpi.edu Chemical Engineering Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA Aidin Panahi, Research Professor, apanahi@wpi.edu Chemical Engineering Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA Michael Timko, Professor, mttimko@wpi.edu Chemical Engineering Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA Abstract: Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) is an emerging technology for conversion of wet organic wastes, particularly sewage sludge, into transportation fuels. The intermediate product of hydrothermal liquefaction is an energy-dense biocrude. Hydrotreating of biocrude produces renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. Hydrotreating is necessary to remove heteroatom content from the biocrude. Sulfur is especially important to remove to meet stringent fuel specifications. Sulfur removal efficiency is influenced by the molecular makeup of the compounds that contain sulfur. It is well known that sulfur is corrosive and can cause damage to equipment and have negative impacts on production costs and quality of finished products. In this research, we will conduct a comprehensive analysis of total sulfur content within biocrudes derived from the hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of sewage sludge. We will consider varying processing parameters such as residence time, and the inclusion of an oxidant. Employing gas chromatography (GC) in tandem with a sulfur-specific pulsed flame photometric detector (PFPD), we will analyze the total sulfur levels present in the biocrudes across these different conditions. This poster will present instrument conditions, QC, and sample results in order to provide a foundational understanding essential for optimizing subsequent refining processes, aiming to produce sulfur-compliant biofuels that meet stringent energy specifications and standards.
