As part of the METHAREN project, we interviewed Ms. Marwa Ourak, leader of work package 2, and R&D Deputy Director at GazoTech.
Background
Q.: Could you share your professional journey up to the METHAREN project?
Ms. Marwa Ourak: I am an energy-process engineer with a robust academic background, including a PhD from IMT Atlantique and the National Engineering School of Gabes. As the R&D Deputy Director at GazoTech since August 2022, I oversee European R&D projects like METHAREN, and I take care of managing the project schedules and coordinating with partners. GazoTech is a French developer of waste-to-energy projects and distributor of gasification facilities for various types of dry biomass wastes, producing renewable energy and low-carbon gases (biomethane, hydrogen, bioethanol).
Role in the project
Q.: Could you share the main aims of the work you are leading in METHAREN?
Ms. Marwa Ourak: In METHAREN, I am leading the second work package (WP), i.e. WP2 – Development of the gasification plant. WP2 aims to develop and deliver the detailed design of the pilot gasification plant, including feeding, gasification, and syngas cleaning, for implementation at ACEA’s site (the demonstration site). GazoTech will conduct oxy-steam gasification tests to assess syngas composition and quantity, while ash behavior will be analysed through simulation. Additionally, the potential integration of hydrothermal carbonisation (HTC) will be explored for comparison and future optimisation of the plant.
Progress and Challenges
Q.: What is the progress achieved so far for WP2?
Ms. Marwa Ourak: WP2 has just been successfully completed, resulting in:
– Properties of the produced syngas at the gasifier outlet determined;
– Detailed design of the gasification plant available for procurement;
-HTC Integration Assessment Report.
Q.: Have you encountered any challenges along the way?
Ms. Marwa Ourak: Technical challenges have been encountered:
– Oxy-steam gasification produces nitrogen-free syngas with a high calorific value but presents increased risks (flame propagation, temperature rise, ash fusion);
– The optimal O₂/H₂O ratio remains uncertain for maximising syngas quality, while minimising contaminants.
To address these challenges, GazoTech has conducted a bibliographic study on oxy-gasification to identify the operating limits for testing and avoid equipment deterioration due to high temperatures. Additionally, a specialised protocol has been developed to ensure a smooth and controlled transition from air to O₂-steam gasification, minimising risks and optimising process stability. To further enhance process control and safety, temperature sensors were integrated into the pilot unit, enabling real-time monitoring and dynamic adjustments.
Next steps
Q.: What are the next activities planned for you and for GazoTech overall in METHAREN?
Ms. Marwa Ourak: GazoTech will launch the manufacture and purchase of the gasification reactor and all the equipments, to eventually have it installed for demonstration at ACEA’s site in Italy beginning of 2026.