MARKETS | X2fuels 2025 Release

HTL CRUDE

HTL biocrude can be refined into transportation fuels like diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel. It also serves as a feedstock for chemicals in industries producing lubricants, resins, and bio-based plastics. Additionally, the aqueous phase from HTL contains nutrients that can be recycled for algae cultivation or used in biogas production. Other applications include bio-asphalt for road construction and carbon-based materials for energy storage. HTL offers a sustainable pathway to convert biomass into valuable energy and chemical products, supporting a circular bioeconomy.

HTL CRUDE MARKET & INDUSTRY APPLICATIONS

Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) is a promising pathway for producing sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) from renewable biomass. The biocrude generated through HTL can be upgraded via hydroprocessing to yield jet fuel-compatible hydrocarbons (or) can be blended with petroleum crude oil before distillation in the refinery. HTL-SAF offers lower carbon footprint, feedstock flexibility, and compatibility with existing aviation infrastructure, thus making it a viable alternative to fossil-based jet fuels. This technology supports the aviation industry’s goal of net-zero emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Bunker Fuel

Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) can produce bunker fuel from renewable and waste feedstocks like OF-MSW, non-biodegradable wastes, agricultural residues, macroalgae seaweeds, and sewage sludge. The biocrude from HTL, after minimal upgradation, can serve as a low-sulfur, energy-dense marine fuel, aligning with IMO 2020 regulations on sulfur emissions. HTL-based bunker fuel provides a sustainable alternative to traditional heavy fuel oil (HFO), helping the shipping industry reduce carbon footprint and transition toward cleaner energy solutions.

Diesel Blends

Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL)-derived crude-like oil can be distilled to obtain the middle cut, which is akin to light cycle oil (LCO) or vacuum gas oil (VGO), which can be upgraded through hydroprocessing to produce renewable diesel. HTL-derived diesel has high energy density, low sulfur content, and reduced emissions, making it a cleaner alternative to fossil diesel. It is compatible with existing diesel engines and infrastructure, supporting a smoother transition to sustainable fuels. HTL-based diesel contributes to decarbonization efforts in transportation, agriculture, and industrial sectors.

Fine Chemicals

Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) produces biocrude rich in valuable chemical compounds, including phenols, ketones, organic acids, and nitrogen-containing molecules. These compounds serve as precursors for fine chemicals used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, resins, and specialty materials. HTL offers a sustainable and renewable alternative to petrochemical-derived fine chemicals, supporting green chemistry and the development of bio-based products.

Refinery Intermediate

Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) produces biocrude that can be integrated into conventional petroleum refineries as an intermediate feedstock. After hydrotreating and catalytic upgrading, HTL biocrude can be processed into gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and petrochemicals. Its high energy content and compatibility with existing refinery infrastructure make it a viable renewable alternative for reducing fossil fuel dependence while leveraging current refining capabilities.

Power Generation

Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) biocrude can be used as a renewable boiler fuel for industrial heating and power generation. With high energy density and the ability to be blended with conventional fuel oil at 10-60%, HTL-based boiler fuel offers a low-carbon alternative to conventional fossil fuels. It can be utilized in industrial boilers, district heating systems, and combined heat and power (CHP) plants, contributing to decarbonization and waste-to-energy solutions.

BIO CHAR

HTL char is a carbon-rich byproduct with applications in soil enhancement, wastewater treatment, solid fuel, and catalyst support. It improves soil fertility, adsorbs pollutants, serves as a renewable fuel, and acts as a precursor for advanced carbon materials. These uses support waste valorization, energy recovery, and environmental sustainability.

HTL CHAR MARKET & INDUSTRY APPLICATIONS

Soil Amendment

HTL char is a carbon-rich material that enhances soil fertility and structure. It improves water retention, nutrient availability, and microbial activity, making it beneficial for crop growth and soil health. Additionally, HTL char aids in carbon sequestration, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Adsorbent

HTL char can be activated through steam cracking to improve its surface area and porosity, making it effective for adsorbing pollutants from wastewater, air, and industrial effluents. It can remove heavy metals, organic contaminants, and excess nutrients, supporting water purification and environmental remediation. Its cost-effectiveness and sustainability make it a viable alternative to conventional adsorbents like activated carbon.

Syngas Production

HTL char can be gasified to produce syngas (a mixture of CO, H₂, and CH₄), which serves as a precursor for fuels, chemicals, and power generation. This process enables efficient energy recovery from biomass waste, supporting renewable hydrogen production and carbon-neutral fuel synthesis. HTL char gasification contributes to waste valorization and sustainable energy solutions.

Fertilizer

HTL char contains essential nutrients and improves soil structure, water retention, and microbial activity, making it a valuable slow-release fertilizer. It enhances plant growth, reduces nutrient leaching, and promotes sustainable agriculture. Its carbon sequestration potential also contributes to climate-friendly farming practices.

Solid Fuel

HTL char is a carbon-rich, energy-dense byproduct that can be used as a solid fuel for heat and power generation. It can be burned directly or processed into fuel pellets or briquettes, offering a renewable alternative to coal. With its high calorific value and low emissions, HTL char contributes to sustainable energy solutions and waste-to-energy applications.

Catalyst Support

HTL char, after due modification via physicochemical activation process to improve its surface area, porosity and carbon content, can be used as a valuable material for catalyst support and advanced carbon applications. It can be used in heterogeneous catalysis, energy storage (supercapacitors, batteries), and carbon-based nanomaterials. Its renewable nature and low-cost production support sustainable industrial and energy applications.