Hydrothermal Processing and Biomass Disintegration at DBFZ (1L Scale)
TA05 – KIT-DBFZ-HTP-RC
Location
Torgauer Straße 116
04347 Leipzig, Germany
Description
DBFZ Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum in Leipzig, Germany is a federal research institute with a dedicated focus on the energetic and material use of biomass and biogenic residues. This research infrastructure (RI) is offered by the working group Hydrothermal Processes consisting of well-experienced and dedicated scientists and technicians.
This RI includes a hydrothermal autoclave at 1-L scale especially designed for reaction calorimetry of hydrothermal reactions at larger scale compared to classical differential scanning calorimetry. The set-up is operated in batch-mode and heated with thermal oil allowing for active cooling. A wide range of biomass, biogenic residues, and chemicals can be used within the autoclave. Details have to be checked with occupational safety requirements before starting the experiments. Chlorine containing chemicals need to be avoided to prevent corrosion. The autoclave is made of stainless steel and is currently in commissioning.
Accompanying physico-chemical analyses can be conducted at the analytical lab of DBFZ but are not directly offered as part of this RI.
Potential users will benefit from the vast experience of hydrothermal processing at DBFZ. Potential users will be supported in their experimental planning and conducting as well as evaluating the experiments, thoroughly discussing the results. Depending on the scientific progression of potential users, mentoring at certain stages of their scientific career will be included, yielding the best and most promising results and getting them published adequately. However, reaction calorimetry of hydrothermal reactions using real biomass as received at larger scale is still a very new field, implying high-risk research. Potential users can help developing this completely new field.
Testing Capabilities
The RI is specifically designed for closely monitoring heat flux during hydrothermal reactions. However, the range of process parameters and the robustness of the system also allows for other types of experiments targeting a better understanding of the heat of reaction during conversions at high temperature and pressure. Any potential idea will be checked thoroughly with regard to the actual applicability using this system.
Technical Equipment
Included is a 1-L-stirred-tank-autoclave specifically designed for reaction calorimetry of hydrothermal reactions equipped with sensors monitoring temperatures and flows to allow for calculations of heat fluxes and heat of reaction.
Additional information
Technology Readiness Level: 1-3
Special considerations: Experience in operating high-pressure, high-temperature systems and lab work will be highly appreciated.
Technology clusters: Biofuels, Materials for Energy
Website: http://www.dbfz.de/htp
Availability: Not available before October 2025 due to final commissioning
Provision of tools to prepare data sets in a FAIR way: Yes
