Optimization of Trace Element Removal in Canola and Soybean Oil Feedstocks for Renewable Diesel Applications

Renewable diesel (hydrotreated vegetable oil) is primarily derived from triglycerides found in biomass feedstocks. These feedstocks can come from a variety of sources including animal fats and waste cooking oils such as canola and soybean oil. The refining process of renewable diesel typically employs a catalyst that is susceptible to poisoning by contaminants in the feedstock. Renewable diesel feedstocks must often undergo a pre-treatment process to remove these contaminants. The removal of these contaminants, often referred to as trace elements, is crucial for renewable diesel production and a cost-efficient process.

This study investigated process variables of the pre-treatment process to determine the most efficient processing conditions for the removal of trace elements. Testing was performed in lab-scale experiments using canola and soybean oil feedstocks. Trace element analyses were performed via ICP-OES. Experimental design and data analysis was completed using JMP statistical software. Process conditions such as treatment temperature and feedstock moisture were found to significantly impact trace element removal. Optimizing renewable diesel pre-treatment process conditions can both improve cost efficiency and increase lifetime of downstream catalyst.