H2-free decarboxylation of plant-oil-residues: Catalyst performance and re-activation

Hydrogen-free, ambient-pressure decarboxylation over activated carbon, also called Gas-phase heterogeneous Catalytic Cracking (GCC), produces fuel-blending hydrocarbon liquids from bio-based waste oils and fats. In bench-scale, up to 80 % energetic yield of liquid product was achieved. Coke formation and blocking of pores lead to a demand of 0.15 g of activated carbon per g feedstock. Re-activation by targeted gasification reactions inside the pores turned out to be suitable for reestablishing the pore system and regaining a 'catalyst' suitable for the decarboxylation process. Nine cycles of catalyst usage and re-activation were performed without any negative implications on catalyst performance.