Description:
Reference #: 01619
The University of South Carolina is offering licensing opportunities for Upgrading of Bio-Oil derived from Biomass Using Ammonia
Background:
Upgrading biomass to bio-coal produces bio-oil- a mixture of carbon-based compounds and water. Due to the water, the bio-oil is economically difficult to transport and difficult to burn, and as it is acidic in nature, it degrades some types of steel making storage difficult.
Invention Description:
This process requires the usage of ammonia to upgrade bio-oils into usable mixtures. The process allows the previously underutilized bio-oil to be separated into two phases. This separation into a water phase (containing compounds that could be used in, for example, fertilizer) and an organic phase (that can be burned as fuel) creates a stream for possible uses from this previously undesired by-product.
Potential Applications:
Bio-oils are currently underutilized, and this process would create possible uses for these mixtures including acting as fuel and potentially a fertilizer as well.
Advantages and Benefits:
This process removes the need for organic solvents for the separation of useful compounds, reducing the cost associated with them. This process creates a more useful secondary product, as the water phase contains compounds that could be used in products such as fertilizer. It requires fewer steps than typical processes, which would reduce costs and increase productivity.
For licensing information contact:
Nikki Biagas, Licensing & Compliance Manager- bianik@sc.edu
UofSC Technology Commercialization Office- technology@sc.edu