PETR 67 |
| Use of biodiesel and its production has gained worldwide momentum because of environmental benefits and national energy security. For example, biodiesel production in the United States has increased dramatically from 0.5 million gallons in 1999 to 250 millions in 2006. In converting vegetable oils into biodiesel, approximately 10% (wt/wt) of glycerin is produced as a by-product. With increased production of biodiesel, a glut of glycerin is expected in the world market; therefore, it is essential to find useful applications for glycerin. Glycerin can be used to produce a variety of products, such as 1,3 propanediol, succinic acid, polyesters, lactic acid, and polyglycerols. A detailed review on glycerin utilization can be found elsewhere. However, one possibility is using glycerin as a source for hydrogen (H2) production. Furthermore, demand for H2, the simplest and most abundant element, is growing due to the technological advancements in fuel cell industry. Almost 95% of the H2 is being produced from fossil fuel based feedstocks, which are non-renewable. In this study, we have looked into the possibility of reforming crude glycerin that is available from biodiesel plant over commercial and our catalysts. |
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2nd Symposium on Hydrogen from Renewable Sources and Refinery Applications
1:00 PM-4:40 PM, Monday, April 7, 2008 Morial Convention Center -- Rm. 223, Oral
Division of Petroleum Chemistry |