The Working Group on Oil, Gas and Biofuels (GT-PGB), held on August 19th of 2025, a technical session dedicated to the theme “Innovative Technologies in Biofuel Production”, within the context of the energy transition and the promotion of circular economy.
The event counted with the attendance of experts from the University of Aveiro, who presented scientific and technological advances in biomass conversion and the valorisation of organic waste. During the session, Prof. Dr. Luís Tarelho highlighted the challenges of thermochimical processes, such as gasification and pyrolysis, pointing out the heterogeneity of the biomass, the low calorific value and the presence of alkaline ash as technical obstacles. He explained that gasification allows for the production of clean lean gas, with potential for electricity generation in rural areas, while pyrolysis generates biochar and bio-oil with industrial and agricultural applications.
Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Flávio Silva approached the topic of biotechnological solutions for the use of organic waste, aligned with the principles of the circular economy: waste elimination, maximization of the value of materials and regeneration of natural systems. Different types of bioreactorsv were presented, with a focus on anaerobic digestion, capable of producing biogas, biohydrogen, and value-added compounds. According to the professor, 1 m³ of biogas can generate up to 7.3 kWh of thermal energy.
During the debate, the possibilities of integrating gasification into local energy chains were discussed, as well as the countries who are the most advanced in the production of biogasv and bio-hydrogen. Brazil was quoted as a reference, even though it faces challenges in the efficient purification of those gases.
The session closed with thanks to the participants and the speakers, reinforcing the importance of regional and international cooperation in the construction of sustainable energy solutions that can be adapted to the realities of lusophone countries.