Hydrothermal Carbonization - Hydrochar production from biomass

Semester/Master project

Spring 2025

Context

Hydrothermal carbonization is a thermochemical process for the pretreatment of high moisture content biomass under hot compressed water, making it applicable for diversified purposes. The primary product of hydrothermal carbonization is a coal-like product called hydrochar and also produces aqueous (rich in nutrients) and gas phases (mainly CO2) as byproducts. The distribution of these products is dependent on the process conditions and feedstock used.

This project is part a European project (NIAGARA - Next advanced bIofuels from AlGae biomAss and oRganic biogenic wAstes for electricity generation through fuel cells application) with international collaboration and innovative solutions for the future.

Please check the website for more information about the project: https://niagaraproject.eu/

The Tasks

The project consists of the following main steps:

  • Perform literature review on the technology to understand its basic principle, performance and limitations.
  • Model the technology in Aspen Plus, a flowsheeting software.
  • Assess the impact of the different infeeds (e.g. sewage sludge, microalgae, etc.) and validate the model with literature data.

Skills

• Good knowledge in thermodynamics and process design • ASPEN modelling skill • Interest in process integration and flowsheeting software

  • Lectures:
    • Energy Conversion and Renewable Energy
    • Advanced energetics or Process Development
    • Basic Thermodynamics Lectures

Practical information

The project will be conducted in IPESE lab in Sion (EPFL Valais) at about 1h05 from Lausanne train station. Possibility of meeting on the campus in Lausanne (Mondays) once the project is up and running. English is required for the end report, but the supervision can be carried out in french or english.

Supervisor

The project will be supervised by Arthur Waeber and Meire Domingos. If interested, please contact us via e-mail attaching your CV and a short motivation letter.

Arthur Waeber, Meire Domingos, mail to: arthur.waeber@epfl.ch, meire.ribeirodomingos@epfl.ch