The technology being developed involves converting the glycerin to propanol via a novel catalytic hydrotreatment process. The partners said their approach comprises applying a high-pressure hydrogenation reaction over a BASF catalyst, ensuring that the bio-propanol is produced with a high yield and purity while minimizing byproducts.

More than half of the world’s glycerin production originates as a byproduct of the biodiesel industry with every ton of biodiesel producing roughly 10% glycerin. Because biodiesel production has expanded over the years, global glycerin production has climbed from 200,000 t in 2003 to about 5 million t in 2020.

“This collaboration, which allows us to accelerate innovation and dramatically decrease time to market, is consistent with Eni’s strategy for the development of advanced-generation biofuels supply chains from feedstocks that do not compete with food supply chains,” said Luisa Lavagnini, Eni’s head of research and technological innovation.

The bio-propanol could potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions by between 65-75% compared with fossil fuels, according to BASF and Eni. It could also be easily added as a drop-in biofuel component to gasoline. Because bio-propanol has a very high octane number as well as better physicochemical properties than bioethanol, it is a valuable component for the preparation of premium gasoline, they added.

Author: Elaine Burridge, Freelance Journalist