Issue 10, 2022

A systems level analysis of ethanol upgrading strategies to middle distillates

Abstract

We systematically study the upgrading of ethanol toward middle distillates with desired properties. To survey the large design space, we introduce a novel superstructure-based optimization framework integrating process design and fuel formulation. We show that biorefineries that produce middle distillates by upgrading lignocellulosic ethanol can have an energy return on investment (EROI) greater than 1. Additionally, we show that technological improvements can lead to significant increases in EROI. Furthermore, trade-offs between fuel properties and biorefinery profitability are established, showing how process economics are strongly influenced by fuel properties. In the case of diesel, the feasibility of producing high cetane number biofuels is demonstrated, coupled with a discussion of the technological requirements and costs to produce these superior fuels. It is also shown that the minimum fuel selling price (MFSP) can be reduced by increasing the biorefinery complexity. Finally, we discuss the possibility of satisfying current and projected middle distillate demand in the U.S. using biofuels produced by ethanol upgrading, and we estimate the potential CO2 mitigation of these technologies.

Graphical abstract: A systems level analysis of ethanol upgrading strategies to middle distillates

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
11 Jul 2022
Accepted
06 Sep 2022
First published
08 Sep 2022

Energy Environ. Sci., 2022,15, 4376-4388

Author version available

A systems level analysis of ethanol upgrading strategies to middle distillates

J. Restrepo-Flórez, J. Ryu, D. Witkowski, D. A. Rothamer and C. T. Maravelias, Energy Environ. Sci., 2022, 15, 4376 DOI: 10.1039/D2EE02202H

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