– CCTT involved: CNETE
–University involved: U.Laval
– Summary: This project aims to evaluate the feasibility and increase the technological maturity of new emerging processes that are less energy-intensive than the Haber-Bosch process. Specifically, the lithium-mediated process (Li0 to Li3N to Li+ + NH3) in a non-aqueous environment and the process using a specific enzymatic catalyst (nitrogenase reductase) will be studied for feasibility, technological maturity, and techno-economic analysis to develop competitive technologies that can be deployed locally.
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– CCTT involved: Centre Terre
– University involved: INRS
– Summary: To address the challenge of fossil fuel use in Nunavik, this RQEI/Energy Squad research project aims to model the integration of a pellet boiler, geothermal energy, and photovoltaic solar power to develop economically viable and low-carbon heating solutions for northern regions. Numerical simulations will utilize Feflow software (geothermal modeling) and Homer Energy PRO (energy integration), allowing for the consideration of key parameters such as site-specific climatic conditions (wind speed, temperature, humidity, sunlight, etc.), load profiles, customer energy demands, technology, and acquisition and operational costs. The CPA-Centre TERRE’s future laboratory will serve as a platform to test and optimize this innovative solution before its deployment in northern areas.
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– CCTT involved: Innofibre, SEREX
–University involved: U.Laval
– Summary: This project aims to conduct a comprehensive carbon balance study of the thermochemical conversion of three residual feedstocks: post-consumer wood (CRD), disturbance wood (residues from fires and contaminated wood, e.g., ash borer infestation), and forest residues. Various thermochemical conversion technologies will be examined (pyrolysis, carbonization, gasification…), including equipment capable of processing pre-commercial quantities. The project involves a complete physico-chemical analysis of the inputs and outputs (bio-oils, syngas, and biochar); the carbon balance of each technology for each input, as well as the development of a techno-economic study to identify the most promising technologies for each residual biomass in terms of GHG reduction (versus incineration or landfill) and the production of high-value-added compounds. The results are expected to define new applications/markets for these underutilized or unvalorized residues.
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– CCTT involved: ITMI
– University involved: ÉTS – Polytechnique
– Summary:The project proposed by CR2ie focuses on the study and design of a hybrid Microbial/Hydrogen/Solar energy system for an isolated wastewater treatment plant. The microbial fuel cell (MFC) utilizes microorganisms present in wastewater to transfer, via a direct-contact biofilm, the electrons produced by the oxidation of organic compounds to the anode of the cell. This oxidation at the anode also generates protons. The electrons are then transported to the cathode through the external circuit, while the protons pass through the electrolyte to also reach the cathode. If oxygen is absent at the cathode, the electrons reduce the protons to produce hydrogen. Thus, the spontaneous operation of an MFC enables both electricity generation and hydrogen production. In the presence of oxygen at the cathode, the reaction results in water formation. As for the microbial electrolytic cell (MEC), it requires an additional energy input (voltage and current) that the MFC cannot spontaneously provide to ensure biohydrogen production. The supplementary energy can come from solar panels coupled with a storage system. The efficiency of hydrogen production depends on optimizing electrocatalytic materials at the anode and cathode, as well as operating conditions (wastewater composition, type of microorganisms, electrolyte flow, etc.). This project aims to explore these optimizations to maximize hydrogen production.
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– CCTT involved: Kemitek
– University involved: UdeS
– Summary: This research project aims to develop innovative catalysts to convert lignin oil into high-quality biofuels through hydrodeoxygenation and hydrogenation to improve stability and energy content. The objective is to create a sustainable biofuel from lignin, contributing to reducing dependence on fossil fuels. By combining the expertise of UDS and KEMITEK, this project aligns with a circular economy approach and energy sustainability.
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– CCTT involved: Nergica
– University Involved: Concordia
– Summary: This project, representing a new opportunity for collaboration between Nergica and Concordia University, aims to break down geographical barriers. Specifically, the project will focus on field-testing various recently developed technologies while supporting the academic training of graduate students specializing in this field. Through this inter-level collaboration (university/CCTT), we will also promote the exchange of innovative ideas and the sharing of best practices.
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– CCTT involved: SEREX
– University involved: UdeS
– Summary: The general objective of this project is to produce higher-quality bio-oil, intended to serve as biofuel for the transport sector, as well as high-energy syngas through pyro-gasification coupled with thermocatalytic reforming. The technological innovation of this project lies in the integration of thermocatalytic reforming of pyrolytic vapor as a post-treatment step of pyrolyzed biomass, within the production chain of enhanced bio-oils and highly valuable syngas. Due to the favorable intrinsic characteristics of the biochar produced by the process (varied functional groups, complex structural network, etc.), another innovative aspect involves the use of biochar, with or without functionalization, as a catalyst for the production of enhanced bio-oil and the purification of syngas. Thus, through this project, all pyrolysis co-products will find a new valorization pathway, beyond their traditional applications.
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– CCTT involved: IMAR
– University involved: ULaval
– Summary:
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– CCTT involved: Kemitek
– University involved: ULaval
– Summary: Green hydrogen, meaning hydrogen produced from a renewable energy source (e.g., hydroelectricity, wind, solar), currently accounts for only a small percentage of global production, less than 2%. It is therefore essential to propose innovative alternatives and processes for green H2 production while promoting socio-economic benefits. In this regard, this project proposes the development of photocathodes based on renewable resources (biomass and industrial waste) for green hydrogen production through water electrolysis. To achieve this, two types of photocathode materials will be prepared and tested under real conditions: conductive polymers and graphene nanoribbons. These materials were selected due to their physicochemical and electronic properties. This project will bring significant economic benefits to Quebec by revitalizing value chains, strengthening inter-sectoral connections, and fostering interregional collaboration. It will also have positive impacts on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and promoting energy efficiency.
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– CCTT involved: Innofibre, CNETE
– University involved: ULaval, UdeS, INRS
– Summary: Quebec has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 37.5% below 1990 levels and its consumption of petroleum products by 40% by 2030, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050. This reduction could notably involve the emergence of bioenergy from forest biomass. While it is generally accepted that using forest biomass for bioenergy production to replace fossil fuels can contribute to combating climate change, the actual contribution of this form of renewable energy to achieving GHG reduction targets is still the subject of much debate.
The project will rely on synergy among the expertise and equipment available at three universities (ULaval, USherbrooke, INRS) and two CCTTs (Innofibre and CNETE). This synergy will generate new data for current and promising forest biomass conversion technologies into bioenergy, providing a solid factual basis for decision-makers regarding the substitution factors for emissions from various forest bioenergy products. This data can also support the development and application of GHG offset protocols in both voluntary and regulatory markets.
Furthermore, the new knowledge and expertise gained from this project will help complete the roadmap for utilizing forest biomass in the form of biofuels and industrially relevant molecules, with the main benefit being the reduction of non-renewable raw material consumption and the decarbonization of certain industrial activities.
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