Progress 05/01/08 to 12/31/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Activities: We designed and built a continuous reactor system which operates at 350 degrees Celsius and 5000 psi. We performed experiments which proved the concept. We hired an undergraduate student in 2009, who has learned a lot about building research equipment. Products: Through this effort we have established a new technology which optimizes biodiesel production using supercritical alcohols, making this method cost-competitive with conventional approaches. We have also produced an improved system design which allows the reactor to be built using conventional components. We intend to pursue patent protection for both of these innovations. Dissemination: We have had discussions with a potential end user and a potential industrial partner. We have also put together web materials, to be released as soon as the patent disclosures are completed. PARTICIPANTS: Individuals: The Principal Investigator, Tim Turner, in addition to project management duties, also had primary responsibility for design, build and test of the reactor system. Collaborators and Contacts: The project received assistance from three professors at NC State University. Dr. Bill Roberts helped with pumping and conceptual design, Dr. Tiegang Fang helped with pumping, and Dr. Larry Stikeleather helped with heating. We had discussions with Hal Wrigley of Knightsbridge Biofuels and Greg Langmo of Langmo Farms about possible implementations. The staff at Piedmont Biofuels were helpful with questions about fuel analysis. Training: We hired an undergraduate student at NC State, Jeff Brookshire, to help with building the reactor system. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences include farmers who produce oilseed crops, growers of new fuelstocks such as algae, and new and existing producers of biodiesel. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: A one-year, no-cost extension was requested and granted for 2009. There was no change in scope of the project. However, the effort did result in an improved system design which is far better than the proposed system.
Impacts
Changes in knowledge: Our practical knowledge has increased in many areas. Above all, we have a much better handle on the safety and handling requirements for the high-temperature, high-pressure, flammable mixture that is being used. Additionally, we have developed methods for moving and controlling fluids at these conditions. The approach we took for heating the reactor using off-the-shelf components was less than satisfactory. We are in the process of redesigning the heater circuits. Change in actions: We have taken steps to pursue patent protection, and intend to market the technology aggressively once those protections are in place. We intend to continue developing the technology by enhancing the scale, automation, and instrumentation of the prototype. Change in conditions: We expect that this technology will enable producers to take advantage of a wider variety of low-quality, low-cost fuelstocks. This will allow the production levels of biodiesel to increase worldwide, with attendant improvements in air quality, reduced dependency on petroleum, and stimulation of domestic economies, particularly in agriculture and biofuel production.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 05/01/08 to 04/30/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Activities: We have built and tested system components, including a high-flow, high-pressure pump and an induction heating system. We are now working with an undergraduate engineering student on the project. He will learn about biofuels chemistry, supercritical fluids, and process engineering. Events: Gave guest lectures for a biofuels technology course at Central Carolina Community College. Products: We have revised the system design so that high-temperature pumps are not required. This innovation should become part of the patent for the process. PARTICIPANTS: Individuals: Principal Investigator. Lead technical and administrative role. In addition to hands-on engineering work, coordinated the efforts of consultants and a student intern. Collaborators: Two consultants designed and built the high-pressure pump system. A third consultant, together with an electronic technician, assisted with the electronics for the induction heating system. Training: An undergraduate engineering student has begun helping with the project. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences: 1) producers and consumers of biodiesel, who will benefit from the improved process, and 2) students interested in biofuel production. Efforts: 1) guest lectures at a course in biofuel technologies at a local community college, and 2) participation of an undergraduate engineering student in the project. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Requested and received a one-year, no-cost extension to the project.
Impacts
Changes in knowledge: Our work with this process has resulted in an improved design. Also, recent data in the literature may allow us to develop an analytical model to as an aid to design and prediction. Changes in actions: We have gained valuable experience in designing and building high-temperature, high-pressure components and systems. This includes added measures to ensure safety.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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