Resource recovery from waste streams
I am very interested in the exploration of new and innovative biorefinery concepts that facilitate the production of high-value chemical compounds from waste (i.e biomass) streams such as sewage , agricultural residues, meat processing waste e.t.c. My previous work has explored the utilization of the sustainable resource of biomass for the production second generation biodiesel while also integrating novel strategies to circumvent moisture and free fatty acid concerns. I have also explored the optimal biogas production from waste residues and the hydrothermal liquefaction of biomass for biochar production and biocrude production.
Figure 1: A simple hydrothermal liquefaction reactor set-up.
Very recently I also explored the possibility of enhanced value extraction from waste plastics for useful chemical production via the application of thermochemical conversion technologies. Hydrothermal liquefaction was further investigated experimentally as an approach that ensured optimal value extraction via steps highlighted in Fig. 2.
Figure 2: Value extraction from waste plastics.
Some of the interesting results obtained in this preliminary work include;
- The resulting waxy oil product was shown to present a higher heating value (HHV) of 47.9 MJ/kg, similar to the HHV of petroleum crude of 47 MJ/kg.
- Additionally the waxy oil product was shown to contain significant concentrations of useful n-alkanes as highlighted in Figure 3A&3B
3A
3B
Figure 3: NMR analysis (3A) and GC-MS analysis (3B) of the waxy-oil product.
Further work is still being undertaken in this area.
Furthermore experimental optimization of conversion processes constitutes a strong interest of mine.
Some of my recent conference presentations /seminars/book chapters in this area are shown below. For a more exhaustive view of my work in the area feel free to check my publications;
May 2019 OERC Seminar Series.pdf
Lipase for biofuel production.pdf
Thermal depolymerisation of digestate for biofuel and biomaterial production.pdf
