Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Biomass and Waste Feedstocks: Advances in Biocrude Production and Process Optimization

Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) is a thermochemical conversion technology that transforms wet biomass, plastic waste, and mixed feedstocks into biocrude under high-temperature, high-pressure aqueous conditions. As global demand for sustainable liquid fuels grows, HTL offers a promising route to valorize a wide range of feedstocks — including lignocellulosic biomass, agricultural residues, municipal solid waste, and plastic-biomass mixtures — without the energy-intensive drying required by other thermochemical methods. Key challenges remain in understanding component interactions during co-processing, optimizing catalyst selection, and improving biocrude yield and quality. This Research Topic aims to bring together contributions that advance the science and engineering of HTL across diverse feedstock types, with the goal of accelerating the transition toward commercial-scale sustainable fuel production.Goal:The goal of this Research Topic is to gather high-quality research that deepens the understanding of HTL as a thermochemical conversion pathway for biomass and waste-derived feedstocks. We aim to highlight advances in reaction mechanisms, feedstock characterization, process optimization, and biocrude upgrading that support the development of scalable and economically viable biofuel production systems.Scope and information for Authors:We welcome focused contributions on HTL and related thermochemical conversion processes for biomass and waste feedstocks. Topics can include:• Reaction pathways, kinetics, and component interactions during HTL of biomass, plastics, and mixed feedstocks• Catalytic and non-catalytic HTL: effects of additives, catalysts, and process conditions on biocrude yield and composition• Feedstock characterization and the role of biomass components (lipids, proteins, carbohydrates) and plastic types on product distribution• Biocrude upgrading, life cycle analysis, techno-economic assessment, and scale-up considerations for HTL systems Topic editors: Seshasayee Mahadevan Subramanya, Roni Mallick Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/84839/hydrothermal-liquefaction-of-biomass-and-waste-feedstocks-advances-in-biocrude-production-and-process-optimization