生物油脂制脂肪醇技术获突破

Core Viewpoint - The collaboration between Tianjin University and Liaoning Fine Chemical Industry Technology Development Co., Ltd. has led to the development of a high-selectivity hydrogenation technology for bio-oils, marking a significant breakthrough in the manufacturing process of high-end natural fatty alcohols in China, which is crucial for achieving self-sufficiency in this field [1][2]. Group 1: Technology Innovation - The "condensed phase catalysis" theory proposed by the research team represents a theoretical innovation that addresses industry pain points, leading to two core innovations in catalyst development and process design [2]. - The team has developed a copper-based catalyst that significantly enhances catalytic activity and selectivity while improving resistance to methanol poisoning and high-temperature sintering, thus extending the catalyst's lifespan [2]. - The "medium-pressure condensed phase oil hydrogenation" process avoids high energy consumption and safety risks associated with traditional methods, creating an efficient reaction environment for the conversion of fatty acid esters to fatty alcohols [2]. Group 2: Industrial Application and Results - The research team has successfully scaled up catalyst preparation technology from grams to tons and established a pilot plant capable of producing hundreds of tons of fatty alcohols, achieving continuous stable operation for 1,000 hours [3]. - The pilot plant demonstrated an average conversion rate of 99.59% for the key raw material lauric acid methyl ester and an average selectivity of 99.69% for the target product lauryl alcohol, with a production rate of 309 grams of fatty alcohol per kilogram of catalyst per hour [3]. - The technology has completed full-chain verification from laboratory research to pilot testing, achieving a technology readiness level (TRL) of over 7, indicating a solid foundation for industrialization [3].