SOLBioUP proposes a novel approach to renewable fuel production by upgrading biogas using concentrated solar energy through thermochemical
processes. The project addresses the urgent need for sustainable, carbon-neutral fuels in sectors difficult to electrify, such as aviation. It focuses on
the chemical looping reforming of methane (CLRM), a promising solar thermochemical route that allows syngas (H2/CO) production at lower
temperatures (<900?°C) with solar-to-fuel efficiencies exceeding 15 %. By leveraging biogas—a renewable carbon source—CLRM reduces the
environmental footprint while enabling efficient solar integration. However, challenges remain in optimizing redox materials, understanding reaction
mechanisms, and scaling up solar reactors.
SOLBioUP brings together a multidisciplinary EU–LAC consortium to address these challenges through a 36-month work plan. Key objectives include:
(1) applying machine learning to predict thermodynamic properties of perovskite and doped ceria oxides to discover optimal compositions; (2)
synthesizing and characterizing promising redox materials; (3) studying reaction mechanisms via in situ/operando spectroscopy and synchrotron
techniques; (4) shaping materials into robust 3D structures; and (5) testing performance under lab-scale and real solar conditions. The project also
includes preliminary techno-economic analysis to assess viability.
SOLBioUP strengthens EU-LAC cooperation by leveraging shared renewable resources—solar energy and biogas—and fostering knowledge exchange
across materials science aids by machine learning, in situ/operando characterisation and solar reactor engineering. It also promotes clean energy
transition, sustainable fuel production based on regional resources, reinforcing sustainable development and energy equity in both regions
