Upgrading of Candelilla biocrude to hydrocarbon fuels by fluid catalytic cracking

Biomass has been recognized as a major world renewable energy source to supplement declining fossil fuel sources of energy. Biomass derived transportation fuels have not only the potential to replace conventional fuels but can also be utilized as blending components for improving the quality of these fuels. The biocrude obtained from Euphorbia antisyphilitica, identified as the most potential petrocrop was investigated as a potential source for liquid fuels. The feed was studied for yield conversion data under different catalyst to feed ratio at various temperatures. Maximum middle distillates selectivity was observed at catalyst/oil ratio 4 and 6 and reaction temperature 500 °C. The main constituents of the gaseous products are C₃, C₄ and C₅. The liquid fuels are highly aromatic with low olefinic content.