Green Plasma Dehydrogenation of Crude Glycerol to Dihydroxyacetone: Experimental Investigation and Techno‐Economic Assessment

The dehydrogenation of waste glycerol (GLY) to high‐value dihydroxyacetone (DHA) presents a sustainable valorization strategy through the application of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma technology. This study utilized multiple needle‐in‐tube configurations to evaluate efficiency under atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature, aiming for a high DHA yield. Key parameters, such as working gas type, gas flow rate, plasma input power, initial GLY concentration, and reaction time, were analyzed for their effects on GLY conversion, DHA yield, and DHA selectivity. Experimental results demonstrated a maximum DHA yield of 27.2% with a corresponding selectivity of 42%, while excessive OH• radical concentrations were found to adversely affect DHA formation through competing oxidation pathways. A comprehensive techno‐economic analysis confirmed the process’s technical feasibility and economic viability, demonstrating profitability within ± 20% market price fluctuations and a discounted payback period (DPP) of under 5 years. This research establishes an innovative pathway for sustainable waste‐to‐value conversion, demonstrating the potential of plasma dehydrogenation for optimized DHA production while contributing to circular economy principles through effective waste GLY utilization.