This initiative focuses on sustainable and environmentally friendly catalysis and is part of a knowledge transfer demonstration activity within the framework of the Strategic Plan of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 2023–2027.
Reducing emissions and valorizing methane
Livestock farming in Catalonia generates waste that contaminates water and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The project aims to reduce the environmental impact of these emissions by applying a patented technology based on a photoreactor that converts biogas (biomethane) into liquid biomethanol.
This conversion process broadens the potential applications of methane, improves transport logistics, enhances methane recovery in rural areas, and significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Photocatalysis and innovation
In its first phase, the project involves the design and construction of a photocatalytic reactor designed to operate with methane in an aqueous medium under UVA irradiation. A gas recirculation system will be implemented to increase residence time and conversion efficiency using the BorCat catalyst, developed at ICMAB, to evaluate methane-to-methanol conversion.
At the same time, researchers are developing heterogeneous forms of the catalyst for practical applications. The project also aims to assess the technological and environmental benefits of producing methanol from biomethane compared to direct injection into the gas grid, and to explore the feasibility of small local biodigesters for decentralized, sustainable management of livestock waste.
Towards sustainable rural development
The main objective of the project is to reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions through improved livestock waste management and valorization — fully aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: Climate Action.
This initiative contributes to sustainable rural development by integrating green and economical innovative catalysis, circular economy principles, and climate
ICMAB Research Team
The ICMAB researchers participating in the project are Rosario Núñez, Francesc Teixidor, Clara Viñas, and Isabel Guerrero, from the Inorganic Materials and Catalysis Laboratory (LMI).
