Development of Ni-Based Catalyst for Lipids Hydrodeoxygenation to Prepare Sustainable and Renewable Biofuel

Biomass is one of the world’s top four energy sources. Its efficient utilization can lead to substantial economic benefits and positive social impacts. Furthermore, the incorporation of biofuel into the energy mix can significantly enhance the sustainability of current fuel resources. Utilizing Ni-based catalysts presents a distinctive advantage in the process of grease hydro-deoxygenation (HDO) for biofuel production. This examination delves into an in-depth analysis and comparison of the performance of Ni-based catalysts in HDO, focusing on aspects such as the choice of support, preparation method, Ni concentration, modulation of acid–base properties, and incorporation of additional components. The focus shifts toward the adjustment of the adsorption and activation capabilities of functional groups containing oxygen by the catalysts, the methods utilized for constructing and dispersing active sites, the pathway control for enhancing hydrogenation depth of grease, the deoxygenation route of grease, and the elucidation of the catalytic process. The structural characteristics and surface properties play a role in controlling the attachment and energizing of reactant molecules as well as the release of product molecules. The enhanced dispersion of the active center based on metal Ni contributes to the enhancement of lipid HDO depth and the alteration of the deoxygenation pathway by facilitating the formation of alloy or intermetallic compounds. Currently, on Ni-based catalysts, the reaction hydrogen pressure is greater than 2 MPa, the temperature is higher than 150 °C, the grease conversion reaches more than 80%, and the alkane selectivity is higher than 70%. Furthermore, this examination offers a glimpse into the fabrication of novel catalysts based on Ni, the trajectory of biofuel advancement, and the detailed examination of raw materials, thereby presenting practical concepts for the effective production of biofuel.