TITLE:
Production of Advanced Biofuels: A Review of Catalytic Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Biomass Using Iron-Based Catalysts
AUTHORS:
Godwin Aturagaba, Dan Egesa, Mariam Onize Usman, Edward Mubiru, Emmanuel Tebandeke
KEYWORDS:
Iron-Based Catalysts, Hydrothermal Liquefaction, Biofuel
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Sustainable Bioenergy Systems,
Vol.15 No.2,
May
21,
2025
ABSTRACT: This study explores the catalytic hydrothermal liquefaction of a wide range of biomass feedstock using iron-based catalysts. The utilization of biofuels presents an optimistic answer to the persistent challenges of climate change and the dwindling of finite fuel sources. By deriving these biofuels from renewable biomass sources, we can decrease our dependency on limited resources and strive toward a more sustainable future. In addition to powering our homes and vehicles, biofuels hold great potential as an indispensable raw material for the creation of valuable chemicals. By continuously exploring innovative methods to harness the power of biofuels, we can facilitate the path to a world that is cleaner, greener, and more prosperous for future generations. Using iron-based catalysts in the HTL process provides opportunities to increase biofuel yield, improve its quality, and make it more environmentally sustainable. By reviewing recent literature, this study provides valuable insights into the catalytic mechanisms, process optimization strategies, and product characteristics associated with biofuel production via HTL with iron-based catalysts. The key findings highlight the role of iron-based catalysts in promoting important chemical transformations, such as depolymerization, deoxygenation, and hydrogenation, which lead to improved biofuel properties. Additionally, the review discusses how various biomass feedstocks and catalyst formulations affect biofuel yield and quality.