Nutrient solution synthesis of the aqueous phase of hydrothermal liquefaction

The valorization of the aqueous phase of Hydrothermal Liquefaction (HTL-AP), a byproduct rich in organic compounds, presents a promising opportunity for resource recovery and environmental sustainability. This study investigates the chemical and biological treatment of HTL-AP to enhance its valorization. Initially, the feasibility of an advanced chemical treatment (electrolysis) on the HTL-AP to recover plant-available nutrients was tested. Later, the effects of altering operational parameters, such as adding sodium chloride and sodium bicarbonate, adjusting the recirculation rate, and optimizing the chemical breakdown of organic nitrogen into plant-available nutrients, are explored. In the final stage of the process, nitrifying bacteria are introduced to assess their ability further to convert ammonia-nitrogen into nitrate-nitrogen in the aqueous phase. The results of this study contribute to a better understanding of how combined chemical and biological treatments can be utilized to valorize HTL-AP, offering a sustainable solution for the management of HTL byproducts and the recovery of valuable resources from waste.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Agricultural & Biological Engr

Grantor

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2025

Author dc:creator

• Bogarin Cantero, Barbara Camila

Contributors dc:contributor

• Davidson, Paul
• Zhang, Yuanhui
• Kalita, Prasanta
• Li, Yalin

• Htl-ap
• Electrolysis
• Inorganic Nitrogen
• Additives
• Recirculation
• Bacteria

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2025 Barbara Camila Bogarin Cantero

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/130192

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F130192