Journal of Fundamentals of Renewable Energy and Applications
Open Access
ISSN: 2090-4541
+44 1300 500008
ISSN: 2090-4541
+44 1300 500008
Mark Nimlos
Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Fundam Renewable Energy Appl
Catalytic upgrading of biomass pyrolysis vapors is a promising technology for producing renewable, drop-in transportation
fuels. Fast pyrolysis of biomass is known to produce high yields (>70%) of carbonaceous liquids that requires after
condensation, but expensive upgrading is required. As an alternative, the vapors can be upgraded before they are condensed.
This approach has been investigated in the past using microporous acid catalysts such as HZSM-5, which produces gasolinerange
hydrocarbons with very little oxygen. However, the yields (10 – 15%) are too low for this to be practical, and further
development is needed. This presentation will discuss some of the approaches being pursued at the National Renewable Energy
Laboratory improve the yields and the economics of vapor phase upgrading. This includes the development of new catalysts
and catalytic processes that efficiently convert the vapors into hydrocarbons as well as an investigation of process conditions to
improve yields. A key part of this effort is an investigation of the chemistry and physics of pyrolysis and catalytic reaction. This
includes experimental and computational studies of the mechanisms of the conversion realistic model compounds, laboratory
screening studies and studies of heat and fluid transfer.
Mark Nimlos received BS in Chemistry from University of Massachusetts, Boston in 1981 and PhD in Chemical Physics from University of Colorado, Boulder in
1986. Currently he is a Principal Scientist in the National Bioenergy Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). He has more than 25 years of
experience in the design and management of complex, multiparty biomass-related research programs and projects, with a focus on thermochemical conversion
research. He has served as lead scientist and manager on numerous projects funded by the Department of Energy and by private industry. His responsibilities
include DOE reporting, financial tracking and management, staff and subcontractor direction, and coordination of efforts by partner organizations. His areas of
expertise are chemical and physical processes in thermochemical biomass conversion, including chemical kinetics and molecular modeling. He has authored or
co-authored nearly 100 peer-reviewed scientific papers/book chapters.