Copa Energia invests in R&D of Renewable Liquefied Gas (RLG)

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Copa Energia is leading the energy transition in the LPG sector with the development of Renewable Liquefied Gas (RLG). Produced from renewable raw materials such as vegetable oils and waste fats, RLG is a sustainable alternative to fossil LPG, allowing for a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of more than 801 tp³. This initiative positions Brazil as a potential and relevant producer and consumer of this advanced biofuel.

From vegetable oil to a clean future: GLR reduces more than 80% of GHG emissions.

Methodology

The initiative involved strategic partnerships with two Brazilian universities: USP and UFRJ. At USP (University of São Paulo), a multi-period Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) model was developed to evaluate and optimize the LPG supply chain over 20 years. The model includes four decision layers: raw material acquisition, installation and operation of production plants, storage infrastructure, and market allocation. Based on different technological routes and Brazilian conditions, the model integrates investment, operation, and transportation costs, as well as revenues from the sale of LPG, co-products, and CBIO credits. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is incorporated via the RenovaCalc methodology, allowing for the estimation of the carbon intensity of fuels and the quantification of CBIO generation, which directly impacts the Net Present Value (NPV) of the system. At UFRJ (Federal University of Rio de Janeiro), research focused on the development of innovative catalysts for the conversion of glycerol and ethanol into LPG, considering different chemical production routes. These catalysts aim to increase conversion efficiency under conditions compatible with Brazil's technological and economic reality, contributing to alternative and sustainable routes for LPG production.

GLR with science and precision: chain optimization and advanced catalysts.

Results

The research developed at USP is ongoing and, while global results are still pending, only case studies have been conducted. However, these studies indicate a positive NPV (Net Present Value), suggesting the economic viability of GLR (Glycerol Recyclable Material) production and a reduction in GHG emissions of up to 83% (Total Potential per Hemisphere) using the Renovacal methodology. The research developed at UFRJ (Federal University of Rio de Janeiro) presented results showing catalysts capable of converting glycerol into GLR with a yield of 76% under reaction conditions of 120 bar and a temperature of 380°C.

Domestic catalysts that transform glycerol into clean energy with a yield of 76%.

Supporting Material

Energy
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