Continuous hydrogenation using milli-structured packed bed reactors
Continuous hydrogenation process employing milli-structured packed bed reactors to deliver high conversion rates at 30–60 bar. The approach is designed to reduce nickel leaching from catalysts, improving product purity while supporting more efficient and sustainable operation. Applicable to fatty acid hydrogenation and potentially other hydrogenation reactions.
Overview
A continuous hydrogenation process uses milli-structured packed bed reactors to optimize hydrogenation of fatty acids. Operation at high pressures of 30 to 60 bars targets high conversion rates with efficient processing. A key benefit is the potential to significantly reduce nickel leaching from catalysts, addressing a common limitation in conventional hydrogenation approaches. This can improve process efficiency and sustainability.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Uses milli-structured packed bed reactors to improve reaction efficiency
- Operates at high pressures (30–60 bars) to maximize conversion rates
- Designed to minimize nickel leaching from catalysts to enhance product purity and reduce environmental impact
- Intended for fatty acid hydrogenation and potentially other hydrogenation applications
Technology readiness level
The technology is at TRL 3, corresponding to an experimental proof-of-concept stage. An experimental setup is available, enabling validation studies to begin in the near future.
About KHIMOD
KHIMOD is a French climate-tech company specializing in the development and manufacture of innovative Heat Exchanger-Reactors (HERs) and turnkey production systems. Their core technology, which relies on a specialized diffusion bonding manufacturing process, allows for precise thermal control and high efficiency in highly demanding catalytic synthesis reactions. By integrating these reactors into modular systems, KHIMOD enables the transformation of CO2 and low-carbon hydrogen into synthetic molecules, including e-methane, e-methanol, and e-fuels. The company also addresses the needs of the fine and specialty chemical industries by providing flow chemistry solutions that facilitate continuous manufacturing and process intensification from laboratory to industrial scales.
These solutions are designed to help decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors, such as maritime and aviation transportation, and to support industrial energy efficiency. KHIMOD's field-proven technology has been applied in significant energy projects, such as power-to-gas demonstrations and sustainable aviation fuel production initiatives like Avebio. The company partners with industrial players to provide technical studies, conceptual design, and long-term maintenance, aiming to replace conventional processes with higher-performance alternatives that reduce carbon emissions and valorize CO2. Their approach is supported by an experienced multidisciplinary team and a strong background in technical research and development.
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