Chemo-enzymatic cascades for the sustainable transformation of canola oil into hydrocarbon fuels

Abstract

This study introduces a novel chemo-enzymatic cascade methodology for the sustainable conversion of canola oil into fuel-like hydrocarbons, combining biocatalysis and continuous-flow technology. The proposed approach addresses the urgent need for renewable energy sources by leveraging the enzymatic hydrolysis of canola oil using Candida rugosa lipase under both batch and continuous flow conditions. This step effectively transforms triglycerides into free fatty acids with remarkable conversion and selectivity rates exceeding 99%. The process then advances to a continuous-flow heterogeneous catalytic hydrogenation employing a Pd/C catalyst, producing saturated fatty acids, or alternatively, a continuous ozonolysis reaction leading to mono- and dicarboxylic acids. The final stage involves enzymatic photodecarboxylation using Chlorella variabilis fatty acid photodecarboxylase (CvFAP), resulting in the generation of long- and medium/short-chain alkanes suitable for low-oxygen-content fuel production. The approach not only offers a greener alternative to traditional methods but also aligns with the principles of green chemistry by reducing operational time, waste generation, and energy consumption. This work sets a precedent for the valorization of vegetable oils into high-value fuels, providing a viable pathway for industrial-scale renewable energy production and contributing to global sustainability goals.