Hydrothermal Chemical Technology

Hydrothermal Chemical Technology

CD BioSciences is a leading bio-environmental protection company specializing in sustainable waste management solutions. We leverage the power of hydrothermal chemical technology (HTC) to transform various organic waste streams into valuable resources, contributing to a circular economy and a cleaner environment.

Complete chloroplast genome sequences of five pinnate-leaved Primula speciesFig 1. Energy recovery from waste by hydrothermal carbonisation (Ipiales R.P., et al., 2020)

Introduction to Hydrothermal Chemical Technology (HTC)

HTC is an innovative and environmentally friendly technology that mimics the natural process of coal formation, but on an accelerated timescale. It involves subjecting organic waste materials to elevated temperatures and pressures in the presence of water. This process triggers a series of chemical reactions, converting complex organic compounds into a stable, carbon-rich material known as hydrochar, along with other valuable byproducts.

Technical Principles of HTC

HTC operates on the principles of hydrolysis and dehydration. Under specific temperature and pressure conditions (typically 180-260°C and 10-50 bar), water acts as both a solvent and a catalyst.

  • Hydrolysis: Complex organic molecules in the waste are broken down into smaller, simpler compounds through reaction with water.
  • Dehydration: Water molecules are removed from the hydrolyzed products, leading to the formation of hydrochar.

This process effectively concentrates the carbon content of the waste, while simultaneously producing a nutrient-rich liquid phase.

Technical Characteristics of HTC

  • Feedstock Flexibility: HTC can process a wide range of organic waste streams, including but not limited to: Food waste and agricultural residues, sewage sludge, livestock manure, woody biomass, industrial organic byproducts (e.g., wine lees, beverage residues, glycerol)
  • High Moisture Tolerance: Unlike conventional thermal processes, HTC can handle feedstocks with high moisture content, eliminating the need for energy-intensive drying.
  • Efficient Carbonization: HTC achieves high carbon conversion rates, resulting in a hydrochar product with excellent energy density.
  • Environmentally Benign: The process operates in a closed system, minimizing emissions and reducing the environmental impact compared to traditional waste disposal methods.

Technical Classification

HTC can be broadly classified into three categories based on the operating conditions and desired products:

  • Hydrothermal Carbonization (HTC): Focuses on the production of solid hydrochar, primarily for fuel applications or soil amendment.
  • Hydrothermal Liquefaction (HTL): Emphasizes the production of bio-oil, a liquid fuel that can be further refined into transportation fuels.
  • Hydrothermal Gasification (HTG): Aims to produce syngas, a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide, which can be used for energy generation or as a chemical feedstock.

Applications Across Diverse Sectors

  • Hydrochar

Solid Fuel: Hydrochar can be used as a direct substitute for coal in power plants and industrial boilers, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions.

Soil Amendment: When applied to soil, hydrochar improves soil fertility, water retention capacity, and carbon sequestration, promoting sustainable agriculture.

Activated Carbon: Hydrochar can be activated to produce high-surface-area activated carbon, used in water and air purification, gas separation, and other applications.

  • Process Water

Nutrient Recovery: The liquid phase generated during HTC contains valuable nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. These can be extracted and used to produce organic fertilizers.

Biogas Production: Process water can be further treated through anaerobic digestion to produce biogas (methane), a renewable energy source.

  • Other Products:

Depending on the feedstock and process conditions, HTC can also yield valuable byproducts such as bio-oil, organic acids, and bio-based chemicals.

Environmental Benefits

  • Waste Reduction and Resource Recovery: HTC diverts organic waste from landfills, reducing waste volume and associated environmental impacts. It also transforms waste into valuable resources, contributing to a circular economy.
  • Greenhouse Gas Mitigation: By replacing fossil fuels with hydrochar and biogas, HTC helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change.
  • Soil Health Improvement: Hydrochar application enhances soil quality, promotes carbon sequestration, and reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers.
  • Pollution Prevention: HTC can treat contaminated waste streams, removing harmful pollutants and reducing their environmental impact.

Our Services

Our services are designed to meet the diverse needs of researchers, conservationists, and industry professionals who require hydrothermal chemical technology:

  • Waste Assessment and Consulting: We provide comprehensive waste analysis and consulting services to identify suitable feedstocks and determine the optimal HTC process for your specific needs.
  • HTC System Design and Installation: We design and install customized HTC systems, tailored to your waste stream and desired product output.
  • Operation and Maintenance: We offer comprehensive operation and maintenance services to ensure the efficient and reliable performance of your HTC system.
  • Product Upgrading and Marketing: We assist in the upgrading and marketing of HTC-derived products, connecting you with potential buyers and end-users.
  • Research and Development: We are committed to continuous innovation and offer research and development services to optimize HTC processes and explore new applications for HTC-derived products.

Distinctive Service Features

  • Expertise and Experience: Our team comprises experienced engineers and scientists with deep knowledge of HTC technology and waste management.
  • Customized Solutions: We offer tailored solutions to meet your specific waste processing needs and desired product outcomes.
  • Technology Leadership: We utilize cutting-edge HTC technology and continuously invest in research and development to stay at the forefront of the industry.
  • Environmental Commitment: We are dedicated to providing sustainable waste management solutions that minimize environmental impact and promote a circular economy.

Contact Us

Hydrothermal chemical technology offers a compelling solution for sustainable waste management and resource recovery. CD BioSciences is committed to helping businesses and communities harness the power of HTC to transform their organic waste into valuable products, reduce their environmental footprint, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Contact us today to learn more about how our HTC services can benefit your organization.

How to Place an Order

How to place an order

Reference

  1. Ipiales R.P., Mohedano A.F., et al "Energy recovery from garden and park waste by hydrothermal carbonisation and anaerobic digestion" Waste Management 2022, 140:100-109.

Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.

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