Progress in thermochemical conversion of duckweed and upgrading of the bio-oil: A critical review

The processing of duckweed has been included in the list of promising pathways for biofuels production. This property is attributed to its simple manual harvesting method and its ability for high protein or starch content, depending on its species and growing environment. The biofuels production from duckweed, is not only a solution to energy and environmental problems, but also a reliable way to realize the utilization of duckweed. This critical review focuses on the bio-oil production from duckweed via pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction processes. First, characteristics and eco-environmental benefits of duckweed are reviewed. Next, the impacts of different parameters on the properties and distribution of bio-oil from pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction are discussed in detail. Subsequently, the effect of hydrogen donor solvents (as reaction media for upgrading) and catalysts on the upgrading of duckweed bio-oil are extensively discussed. This paper ends with the prospects for further development in thermochemical valorization of duckweed. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Duckweed processing has been recognized as a promising pathway for biofuels production due to its simple harvesting method and high protein or starch content. Biofuels production from duckweed not only addresses energy and environmental issues, but also promotes the effective utilization of duckweed. This critical review focuses on producing bio-oil from duckweed via pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction processes, and discusses the impacts of various parameters on bio-oil properties and distribution.