High Energy Biocrude from Water Hyacinth via Hydrothermal Liquefaction

Abstract

The world is moving towards bioenergy from biomass aiming to create a less carbon-dependent environment and environmental issues. In this study, we found a promising way to convert invasive lignocellulosic biomass, specifically water hyacinth into biofuel via hydrothermal liquefaction. Water Hyacinth was subjected to hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) in a 40 ml reactor. The HTL involved 10% solid basis feedstock at a temperature of 300°C for one hour, using its root, leaf stalks, and leaves. The study led to a biocrude production of 28.2% with a higher heating value (HHV) of 33.02 MJ/kg which was indicative of a high energy potential comparable to that of conventional petroleum. The suitability of biocrude as a renewable energy source was confirmed by elemental analysis, which revealed a high of carbon (68.8%) and hydrogen (9.1%) content. By-product biochar showed an HHV of 18.02 MJ/kg as well, suggesting that it can also be used for energy purposes. Large fractions of heavy fuel oils and a variety of functional groups (esters, alcohols, carboxylic acids) were detected by GC-MS and FTIR analysis, further confirming the feasibility of this technique. This study confirms hydrothermal liquefaction of water hyacinth is an effective option for the reduction of this invasive species and a feedstock for renewable energy production.