PROCESSING COMPLEX MATRICES: DESCRIPTION, REACTION-SEPARATION, MODELLING

Introduction

The DREAM project focuses on the transformation of complex matrices for the chemical industry of the future. It will focus on Kraft black liquor as a case study.

Proposed Processes

It proposes to design new intensified processes coupling reaction and separation in continuous mode to fractionate a complex matrix:

1. Deep-eutectic solvent (DES)-assisted extraction of lignin coupled with depolymerisation.
2. CO2-assisted lignin segregation coupled with pyrolysis.
3. Membrane filtration coupled with oxidative depolymerisation.

Each fraction will then be valorised into products of interest through reactive distillation or catalytic upgrading.

Monitoring and Modelling

These processes will be monitored by original descriptors designed using data from on-line analysis. The modelling of each reaction and separation step will be carried out based on these descriptors, to give modules that will be assembled in a global simulation of the process.

Interdisciplinary Approach

The interdisciplinary approach combining biomass chemistry, catalysis, and chemical engineering will be enhanced through educational methods to overcome epistemological, cognitive, and communication barriers between disciplines.

Conclusion

The DREAM project represents a radically new approach for studying complex matrices, combining cutting-edge technical expertise with social and philosophical expertise to address challenges of the interdisciplinary research process. By developing new descriptors, models, and integration strategies, it aims to establish a feedstock-product relationship and design new, more efficient, and greener processes, as well as new interdisciplinary methodologies.