Innovation and Sustainability Program in the Petrochemical and Biofuels Sector

• Grant number: 25/02828-3
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2030
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Principal Investigator: Amanda Lemette Teixeira Brandao
• Grantee: Amanda Lemette Teixeira Brandao
• Host Institution: Centro Técnico Científico (CTC). Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio)
• Pesquisadores principais: ADRIANA Gioda ; Ana Rosa Fonseca de Aguiar Martins ; Bojan Marinkovic ; Camilla Djenne Buarque Müller ; Carlos German Massone ; Cecilia Vilani ; Daniela Silveira Soluri ; Joana da Costa Pinto d'Avila ; Jones Limberger ; José Marcus de Oliveira Godoy ; Lívia Batista Lopes Escobar ; MARCOS VENICIUS SOARES PEREIRA ; Renato da Silva Carreira ; ROGERIO NAVARRO CORREIA DE SIQUEIRA ; Sidnei Paciornik ; TATIANA DILLENBURG SAINT PIERRE ; VOLODYMYR ZAITSEV
• Associated researchers: Anupama Ghosh ; Aurora Pérez Gramatges ; Brunno Ferreira dos Santos ; Marco Andre Fraga ; Renan Lira de Farias ; Ricardo Queiroz Aucelio

Abstract

The Innovation and Sustainability Program in the Petrochemical and Biofuels Sector, proposed by the Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering (DEQM) and the Department of Chemistry (DQ) at the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio), aims to contribute to the development of qualified human resources and the advancement of innovative and sustainable technologies in the energy sector, aligning with the strategic priorities of the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Biofuels (ANP). The proposal is structured around three main emphases: Biofuels and Renewable Energies; Safety, Sustainability, and Innovation in Materials; and Energy Efficiency and Decarbonization in Petrochemical Supply. These emphases are aligned with the priorities of the ANP, as established in the resolutions of the National Council for Energy Policy (CNPE), focusing on key areas for the training of specialized professionals and priority themes defined by the ANP, such as biofuels, decarbonization, digital transformation, Nature-Based Solutions (NBS), Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS), and digital transformation, contributing to decarbonization and the modernization of the energy sector. In the Biofuels and Renewable Energies emphasis, the project aligns with the ANP's priority themes, including the production and chemical transformation of bioethanol, as well as the development of advanced biofuels, such as cellulosic ethanol and microalgae-based biodiesel. It also integrates BECCS systems for CO2 capture and storage, contributing to emission mitigation and carbon neutrality, in line with ANP guidelines and the global clean energy scenario. In the Safety, Sustainability, and Innovation in Materials emphasis, the project addresses nanomaterials, corrosion, new materials, and waste minimization, aligning with ANP priorities in safety and environmental protection. It includes modeling and prevention of environmental impacts, as well as water and effluent management, promoting sustainable practices in the oil and gas industry. The development of materials and mitigation techniques meets sector demands, driven by stricter regulations and the commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. In the Energy Efficiency and Decarbonization in Petrochemical Supply emphasis, the project aligns with the development of more efficient petrochemical processes, advanced catalytic systems, and alternative raw materials for the production of basic and intermediate chemicals. Additionally, it addresses Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) techniques, contributing to the decarbonization of the petrochemical sector. The growth of energy transition policies underscores the importance of training professionals in this strategic area, ensuring the competitiveness of the national industry. The increasing demand for qualified professionals in these areas makes the proposed program a key differentiator for human resource development and the creation of technological solutions aligned with ANP guidelines. The departments boast robust infrastructure and strategic partnerships that ensure excellence in project execution, with specialized laboratories and researchers with extensive experience in the oil, gas, and biofuels sectors. Interdepartmental collaboration (DEQM and DQ) will enable a multidisciplinary approach, essential for the development of sustainable technologies. Finally, it is worth noting that, in addition to contributing innovations and applied projects to the sector, the departments have a strong track record of placing students in the job market. With an integrated and innovative approach, the proposed Program will enable the training of professionals and drive technological advancements for a more sustainable and competitive energy sector in Brazil. (AU)