The 34th edition of the European Biomass Conference and Exhibition (EUBCE) has successfully concluded, and the COCPIT Project was proud to contribute with a strong scientific and industrial presence throughout the event.
Through five dedicated presentations, the consortium showcased the latest advancements achieved across the project, covering key aspects of the microalgae-to-fuels value chain — from feedstock optimization and fuel upgrading to techno-economic assessment and refinery integration.
Feedstock Optimization for Improved Biocrude Quality
Rami Makarem (IMT Atlantique) presented recent findings on the optimization of P. kessleri biomass composition for Hydrothermal Liquefaction (HTL). The research demonstrated how reducing protein content while increasing lipid accumulation can significantly enhance biocrude yield, lower nitrogen concentration, and promote reaction pathways favorable to amidation.
Scaling Up Advanced Biofuels for the Maritime Sector
Eva Nanaki (HELLENiQ ENERGY) explored the scalability and replicability potential of the COCPIT concept within the Mediterranean region. Her presentation highlighted how advanced biofuels can represent one of the most immediate and practical solutions for supporting refineries and commercial shipping fleets in meeting both IMO and European decarbonization targets.
Hydrotreating Processes and Fuel Quality Compliance
Ahmed Al-Dubai (Aalborg University) presented the technical results achieved through continuous two-stage hydrotreating processes applied to algal biocrude. The upgrading strategy successfully enabled the removal of oxygen and nitrogen heteroatoms, producing fuel fractions compliant with ASTM D7566 specifications for aviation fuels and ISO 8217 standards for maritime applications.
Techno-Economic Assessment and Process Sustainability
Stamatia Skoutida (Agricultural University of Athens) shared the latest results from process simulations and techno-economic analysis (TEA). The study emphasized the advantages of HTL technology in processing wet biomass directly, while also identifying key economic hotspots associated with cultivation and scale-up scenarios.
The Refinery Perspective: Integration, Safety, and Operational Reliability
Michaela Papageorgiou (HELLENiQ ENERGY) provided an industrial perspective on the integration of microalgae-based Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) pathways into existing refinery infrastructures. Her contribution underlined the importance of balancing innovation with operational continuity, safety, asset integrity, and strict compliance with international fuel standards.
The participation of COCPIT at EUBCE 2026 represented an important opportunity to share progress, strengthen collaborations, and discuss the future deployment of sustainable fuel technologies for aviation and maritime sectors.
A special thank you goes to all project partners and to the project coordinator, Sary Awad (IMT Atlantique), for bringing COCPIT into this important international context.