Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Palm Oil Biomass for Bio-oil Production: A Short Review

Abstract

Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of palm oil biomass has emerged as a promising thermochemical pathway for producing bio-oil, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. This review summarizes the current research status, emphasizing the influence of key operating parameters temperature, pressure, residence time, and solid-to-liquid ratio on bio-oil yield and quality. While HTL demonstrates strong potential for energy applications, efficient utilization of bio-crude requires optimized processing techniques to enhance conversion efficiency. Despite these advancements, several challenges remain, including the need for pilot-scale development, advanced theoretical modeling to analyze complex bio-crude properties such as thermodynamics and viscosity, and comprehensive parameter optimization. Addressing these gaps will be critical for establishing HTL as a viable solution for future renewable energy systems.