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Utilization of Blackmouth Catshark (Galeus melastomus) Skins as an Alternative Source of Gelatin: Extraction and Physicochemical Characterization in Comparison to Porcine Skin Gelatin
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Study of Compost Based on Sewage Sludge and Different Structural Materials
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Recent Developments in Research on Food Waste and the Circular Economy
Journal Description
Biomass
Biomass
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on biomass conversion and biorefinery published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, EBSCO, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 24.1 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 13.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q2 (Forestry)
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Latest Articles
Can Foraging for Earthworms Significantly Reduce Global Famine in a Catastrophe?
Biomass 2024, 4(3), 765-783; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4030043 - 16 Jul 2024
Abstract
Earthworms are a resilient group of species thriving in varied habitats through feeding on decaying organic matter, and are therefore predicted to survive an abrupt sunlight reduction scenario, e.g., a nuclear winter. In this study, the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of foraging earthworms to
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Earthworms are a resilient group of species thriving in varied habitats through feeding on decaying organic matter, and are therefore predicted to survive an abrupt sunlight reduction scenario, e.g., a nuclear winter. In this study, the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of foraging earthworms to reduce global famine in such a scenario with or without global catastrophic infrastructure loss was considered. Previously reported earthworm extraction methods (digging and sorting, vermifuge application, worm grunting, and electroshocking) were analysed, along with scalability, climate-related barriers to foraging, and pre-consumption processing requirements. Estimations of the global wild earthworm resource suggest it could provide three years of the protein needs of the current world human population, at a median cost of USD 353·kg−1 dry carbohydrate equivalent or a mean cost of USD 1200 (90% confidence interval: 32–8500)·kg−1 dry carbohydrate equivalent. At this price, foraging would cost a median of USD 185 to meet one person’s daily caloric requirement, or USD 32 if targeted to high-earthworm-biomass and low-labour-cost regions; both are more expensive than most existing resilient food solutions. While short-term targeted foraging could still be beneficial in select areas given its quick ramp-up, earthworms may bioaccumulate heavy metals, radioactive material, and other contaminants, presenting a significant health risk. Overall, earthworm foraging cannot be recommended as a scalable resilient food solution unless further research addresses uncertainties regarding cost-effectiveness and food safety.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass for Resilient Foods)
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Open AccessArticle
Microalgae Isolated from Singapore Mangrove Habitat as Promising Microorganisms for the Sustainable Production of Omega-3 Docosahexaenoic Acid
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Glen Kai Bin Kua, Shik Nie Kong, Hongfang Zhang and Giang Kien Truc Nguyen
Biomass 2024, 4(3), 751-764; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4030042 - 10 Jul 2024
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Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3) is an omega-3 fatty acid with beneficial effects for human health. In view of its increasing demand, DHA traditionally produced by marine fisheries will be insufficient, and an alternative sustainable source is urgently required. Here, we report the isolation
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Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3) is an omega-3 fatty acid with beneficial effects for human health. In view of its increasing demand, DHA traditionally produced by marine fisheries will be insufficient, and an alternative sustainable source is urgently required. Here, we report the isolation and characterization of four novel microalgae strains, PLU-A, B, C and D, with a high DHA content of up to 45% from decayed mangrove samples collected from a coastal area in Singapore. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these isolates were clustered with Schizochytrium sp. TK6 (OK244290.1) and were identified as Schizochytrium sp. strains. A medium optimization with Schizochytrium sp. PLU-D found a glucose-to-yeast extract ratio of 4:1 to be optimal for high biomass and lipid accumulation of up to 70% in shake flasks. In fed-batch fermentation scale-up with the Schizochytrium sp. PLU-D strain, this translates to 175 g/L dry biomass, 94 g/L lipid and 36.2 g/L DHA. Accordingly, the DHA titer obtained is superior to most of the scale-up production reported thus far, while the DHA content is comparable to two other commercially available DHA algae oils. These results suggest that Schizochytrium sp. PLU-D has high potential to be applied for the sustainable production of DHA.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Energy Potential of Switchgrass Biomass
by
Michael Ioelovich
Biomass 2024, 4(3), 740-750; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4030041 - 8 Jul 2024
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In this research, the energy potential of switchgrass (SG) was analyzed to find promising directions for producing bioenergy from this biomass. The first direction is determining the thermal energy of bioethanol extracted from SG biomass after its pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis (saccharification), and fermentation
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In this research, the energy potential of switchgrass (SG) was analyzed to find promising directions for producing bioenergy from this biomass. The first direction is determining the thermal energy of bioethanol extracted from SG biomass after its pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis (saccharification), and fermentation of the resulting glucose. It was established that after a two-stage pretreatment of 1 ton of SG with dilute solutions of nitric acid and alkali, the largest amount of bioethanol can be extracted with an energy potential of 4.9 GJ. It is also shown that by the utilization of solid and liquid waste, the production cost of bioethanol can be reduced. On the other hand, the direct combustion of 1 ton of the initial SG biomass used as a solid biofuel provides an increased amount of thermal energy of 18.3 GJ, which is 3.7 times higher than the energy potential of the resulting bioethanol extracted from 1 ton of this biomass. Thus, if the ultimate goal is to obtain the maximum energy amount, then another direction for obtaining bioenergy from biomass should be implemented, namely, direct combustion, preferably after pelletizing. Studies have shown that fuel characteristics of SG pellets such as the gross thermal energy and density of thermal energy are lower than those of wood pellets, but they can be improved if the SG biomass is densified into pellets together with binders made from polymer waste.
Full article
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Open AccessReview
Biomass and Circular Economy: Now and the Future
by
Chen-Jie Hsiao and Jin-Li Hu
Biomass 2024, 4(3), 720-739; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4030040 - 5 Jul 2024
Abstract
Biomass is inherently organic and renewable, promoting a circular economy ecosystem. As global consumption patterns change, circular economy strategies have turned into sustainable net-zero strategies for developing countries and developed countries, and its value chain is now included in important biomass energy policies.
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Biomass is inherently organic and renewable, promoting a circular economy ecosystem. As global consumption patterns change, circular economy strategies have turned into sustainable net-zero strategies for developing countries and developed countries, and its value chain is now included in important biomass energy policies. Many countries are actively transforming their economic growth patterns, developing their own circular economy, targeting ecological sustainable development, and adjusting domestic industrial structures. The concept of a circular society, synergistic with the social economy and developed on the basis of the circular economy, has production and consumption at its core. This research aims to verify the important roles that biomass plays in the circular economy and to initiate a virtuous resource circulation model, promote material recycling and reuse, form a “resources-products-renewable resources” model, and promote better resource use efficiency. It discusses the important roles that the bioeconomy plays when achieving a circular economy and also proposes new economic and policy concepts. The key conclusions cover: (1) the biomass energy–circular economy business model; (2) recognizing the co-benefit of consumers and a prosumer circular economy; and (3) challenges to a renewable cycle under economic applications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the "2nd European Congress on Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development—Energy Trends 2024")
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Open AccessReview
Unveiling the Potential of Spirulina Biomass—A Glimpse into the Future Circular Economy Using Green and Blue Ingredients
by
Monize Bürck, Camilly Fratelli, Marina Campos Assumpção de Amarante and Anna Rafaela Cavalcante Braga
Biomass 2024, 4(3), 704-719; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4030039 - 5 Jul 2024
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The present work aims to explore Spirulina biomass’ functional and technological marvels and its components, such as C-phycocyanin (C-PC), in modern food systems from a circular economy perspective, evaluating a decade of insights and innovations. This comprehensive review delves into the pivotal studies
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The present work aims to explore Spirulina biomass’ functional and technological marvels and its components, such as C-phycocyanin (C-PC), in modern food systems from a circular economy perspective, evaluating a decade of insights and innovations. This comprehensive review delves into the pivotal studies of the past decade, spotlighting the vital importance of maintaining stability in various food matrices to unleash the full biological impacts. Through the lens of food science intertwined with circular economy principles, this analysis meets health and environmental requisites and explores the harmonious synergy between food systems, economy, and industry. While Spirulina has typically served as a supplement, its untapped potential as a fundamental food ingredient has been unveiled, showcasing its abundant nutritional and functional attributes. Technological hurdles in preserving the vibrant color of C-PC have been triumphantly surmounted through simple temperature control methods or cutting-edge nanotechnology applications. Despite the gap in sensory acceptance studies, the emergence of blue foods introduces groundbreaking functional and innovative avenues for the food industry.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Optimization of the Factors Affecting Biogas Production Using the Taguchi Design of Experiment Method
by
Sidahmed Sidi Habib, Shuichi Torii, Kavitha Mol S. and Ajimon Charivuparampil Achuthan Nair
Biomass 2024, 4(3), 687-703; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4030038 - 2 Jul 2024
Abstract
The present study analyzed the effect of temperature, pH, pre-treatment and mixing ratio on the anaerobic digestion process. The parameters during the anaerobic co-digestion of cow manure and food waste were then optimized using the Taguchi experimental design method. ANOVA was carried out
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The present study analyzed the effect of temperature, pH, pre-treatment and mixing ratio on the anaerobic digestion process. The parameters during the anaerobic co-digestion of cow manure and food waste were then optimized using the Taguchi experimental design method. ANOVA was carried out to find the significant parameters which influence biogas production. Experimental tests were carried out at laboratory-scale reactors kept at different temperatures (28 °C, 35 °C, and 50 °C). The specific methanogenic performance (SMP) during anaerobic digestion at higher temperatures was characterized with the analysis of acetate, propionate, butyrate, hydrogen, glucose, and formate, and was validated with the literature. The improvement of biogas production with different pre-treatments, i.e., ultrasonic, autoclave, and microwave techniques, was also analyzed. The results showed that the reactor that was maintained at 35 °C showed the highest biogas production, while the reactor that was maintained at a lower temperature (28 °C) produced the lower volume of biogas. As the retention time increases, the amount of biogas production increases. Methanogenic activities of microorganisms were reduced at higher temperature conditions (65 °C). Biogas production increased by 28.1%, 20.23%, and 13.27% when the substrates were treated with ultrasonic, autoclave, and microwave, respectively, compared to the untreated substrate. The optimized condition for the highest biogas production during anaerobic co-digestion of food waste and cow manure is a temperature of 35 °C, a pH of 7 and a mixing ratio (CM:FW = 1.5:0.5). ANOVA showed that temperature is the most important input parameter affecting biogas production, followed by mixing ratio.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass Materials: Synthesis, Functionalisation, and Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Process Variables on Physico-Mechanical Properties of Abura (Mitrogyna ciliata) Sawdust Briquettes
by
Joseph Ifeolu Orisaleye, Simeon Olatayo Jekayinfa, Adebayo Adeyemi Ogundare, Mojirade Rashidat Shittu, Oluwatomiwa Olalekan Akinola and Kazeem Olabisi Odesanya
Biomass 2024, 4(3), 671-686; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4030037 - 1 Jul 2024
Abstract
Efficient utilization of biomass requires conversion into forms that can be optimally applied in energy generation. Briquetting involves the compaction of biomass into solid blocks that are more efficient than raw biomass, and provides ease of transport and handling. These are improved when
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Efficient utilization of biomass requires conversion into forms that can be optimally applied in energy generation. Briquetting involves the compaction of biomass into solid blocks that are more efficient than raw biomass, and provides ease of transport and handling. These are improved when the briquettes possess a high density, shatter index, and compressive strength. Due to differences in nature and composition, it is imperative to define optimum conditions for the production of quality and durable briquettes for individual biomasses that are compacted into briquettes. This study investigated the effects of process variables on the strength, durability, and density of biomass briquettes produced using Abura sawdust. The lateral compressive strength and drop shatter index were investigated whilst varying the temperature (100–150 °C), pressure (9–15 MPa), and hold time (15–30 min). The compressive strength ranged between 2.06 and 5.15 MPa, whilst the shatter index was between 50 and 600. Briquette density was between 518.8 and 822.9 kg/m3. The pressure was significant to the determination of the compressive strength (p < 0.1) and the shatter index (p < 0.05). The pressure, temperature, and hold time are significant to the briquette density. Physical and mechanical characteristics of the binderless Abura sawdust briquettes can be improved by optimizing the densification variables during the briquetting process when moderate pressures are used for compaction.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass for Energy, Chemicals and Materials)
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Open AccessArticle
Investigating Degradation in Extrusion-Processed Bio-Based Composites Enhanced with Clay Nanofillers
by
Ahmed Tara, Mouhja Bencharki, Angélique Gainvors-Claisse, Françoise Berzin, Omar Jbara and Sébastien Rondot
Biomass 2024, 4(3), 658-670; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4030036 - 1 Jul 2024
Abstract
This research investigates the extrusion-based fabrication and characterization of nanocomposites derived from bio-sourced polypropylene (PP) and poly(butylene succinate) (PBS: a biodegradable polymer derived from renewable biomass sources such as corn or sugarcane), incorporating Cloisite 20 (C20) clay nanofillers, with a specific focus on
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This research investigates the extrusion-based fabrication and characterization of nanocomposites derived from bio-sourced polypropylene (PP) and poly(butylene succinate) (PBS: a biodegradable polymer derived from renewable biomass sources such as corn or sugarcane), incorporating Cloisite 20 (C20) clay nanofillers, with a specific focus on their suitability for electrical insulation applications. The research includes biodegradation tests employing the fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium to evaluate the impact of composition and extrusion conditions. These tests yield satisfactory results, revealing a progressive disappearance of the PBS phase, as corroborated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations and a reduction in the intensity of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) peaks associated with C-OH and C-O-C bonds in PBS. Despite positive effects on various properties (i.e., barrier, thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties, etc.), a high clay content (5 wt%) does not seem to enhance biodegradability significantly, highlighting the specific sensitivity of the PBS phase to the addition of clay during this process. This study provides valuable insights into the complex interplay of factors conditioning nanocomposite biodegradation processes and highlights the need for an integrated approach to understanding these processes. This is the first time that research has focused on studying the degradation of nanocomposites for electrical insulation, utilizing partially bio-sourced materials that contain PBS.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass Materials: Synthesis, Functionalisation, and Applications)
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Open AccessArticle
Optimization of Enzymatic Assisted Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Olea europaea Leaves
by
Alexios Vardakas, Achilleas Kechagias, Nikolay Penov and Aris E. Giannakas
Biomass 2024, 4(3), 647-657; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4030035 - 1 Jul 2024
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Nowadays, the circular economy trend drives researchers in the recovery of various bioactive compounds from agri-food by-products. Enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE) has been shown to be an innovative green technology for the effective extraction of various phytochemicals from agri-food section by-products; therefore, this study
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Nowadays, the circular economy trend drives researchers in the recovery of various bioactive compounds from agri-food by-products. Enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE) has been shown to be an innovative green technology for the effective extraction of various phytochemicals from agri-food section by-products; therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the application of EAE as green technology to obtain extracts from olive leaves (Olea europaea) for potential industrial production. The used enzymes were Celluclast, Pectinex XXL and Viscozyme L. EAE was conducted under various enzyme dose combinations and an incubation time of 120 min. Obtained extracts were characterized in terms of total polyphenols (TP) and total antioxidant activity (AA). Firstly, the enzyme synergistic effect in the enzymatic extraction of polyphenols was evaluated. TP optimal extraction conditions (468.19 mg GAE (gallic acid equivalent)/L of extract) were achieved after EAE using Pectinex and Viscozyme enzymes (50–50 v/v) and for AA (69.85 AA%). According to the above results, a second experiment investigated the effect of incubation time (min.) and enzyme dose (mL) on the optimal extraction conditions of olive leaves. The final results after optimization were 75% higher than the control sample for the TP content (605.55 mg GAE/L) and 8% higher for the AA (70.14 AA%). These results indicated that EAE is an excellent choice for the green extraction of polyphenols from the olive leaves.
Full article
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Open AccessReview
Elephant Grass (Pennisetum purpureum): A Bioenergy Resource Overview
by
Lovisa Panduleni Johannes, Tran Thi Ngoc Minh and Tran Dang Xuan
Biomass 2024, 4(3), 625-646; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4030034 - 1 Jul 2024
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Elephant grass (EG), or Pennisetum purpureum, is gaining attention as a robust renewable biomass source for energy production amidst growing global energy demands and the push for alternatives to fossil fuels. This review paper explores the status of EG as a sustainable
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Elephant grass (EG), or Pennisetum purpureum, is gaining attention as a robust renewable biomass source for energy production amidst growing global energy demands and the push for alternatives to fossil fuels. This review paper explores the status of EG as a sustainable bioenergy resource, integrating various studies to present a comprehensive analysis of its potential in renewable energy markets. Methods employed include assessing the efficiency and yield of biomass conversion methods such as pretreatment for bioethanol production, biomethane yields, direct combustion, and pyrolysis. The analysis also encompasses a technoeconomic evaluation of the economic viability and scalability of using EG for energy production, along with an examination of its environmental impacts, focusing on its water and carbon footprint. Results demonstrate that EG has considerable potential for sustainable energy practices due to its high biomass production and ecological benefits such as carbon sequestration. Despite challenges in cost competitiveness with traditional energy sources, specific applications like small-scale combined heat and power (CHP) systems and charcoal production show economic promise. Conclusively, EG presents a viable option for biomass energy, potentially playing a pivotal role in the biomass sector as the energy landscape shifts towards more sustainable solutions; although, technological and economic barriers need further addressing.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Wood Gasification: A Promising Strategy to Extend Fuel Reserves after Global Catastrophic Electricity Loss
by
David Nelson, Alexey Turchin and David Denkenberger
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 610-624; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020033 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
It is crucial to increase the resilience of the global food production and distribution systems against the growing concerns relating to factors that could cause global catastrophic infrastructure losses, such as nuclear war or a worldwide pandemic. Currently, such an event would result
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It is crucial to increase the resilience of the global food production and distribution systems against the growing concerns relating to factors that could cause global catastrophic infrastructure losses, such as nuclear war or a worldwide pandemic. Currently, such an event would result in the global loss of industry, including the ability to drill and refine crude oil. In such an event, the existing above-ground reserves of diesel and gasoline are likely to still be intact but would only be able to power the production and transportation of food between 158 days and 481 days with 80% confidence, where the mean is 195 days at current rates. This paper investigates a novel group of interventions in relation to the scenario of providing food under these conditions. It was found that by using a plausible combination of wood gasification, increasing vehicle utilisation rate, and reducing food consumption, the stockpile duration could increase to between 382 days and 1501 days with 80% confidence, where the mean is 757 days. This is an improvement in mean duration by a factor of 3.9. It was discovered that diesel is the limiting fuel in all scenarios due to wood gas only being a partial replacement for diesel fuel and also because of the prevalence of diesel engines in both the agricultural and trucking industries. A sensitivity analysis was completed identifying that reducing food consumption to minimum levels was the most effective method to prolong diesel reserves. The other factors that benefited from extending fuel reserves in terms of their effectiveness are reducing the lag time before gasification devices are installed, increasing the rate at which gasification devices are installed, and increasing the agricultural equipment utilisation rate.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass for Resilient Foods)
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Open AccessArticle
Cropping Flax for Grain and Fiber: A Case-Study from Italy
by
Piernicola Masella, Giulia Angeloni and Incoronata Galasso
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 599-609; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020032 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) can be grown both as an oil crop and as a fiber crop, and this offers new opportunities when included in the framework of a whole-crop biorefinery, a system in which a range of products are made from
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Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) can be grown both as an oil crop and as a fiber crop, and this offers new opportunities when included in the framework of a whole-crop biorefinery, a system in which a range of products are made from portions of grain and straw and in which both of these should be satisfactorily produced. In the present experiment, the effect of flax genotypes (7 varieties), cultivation sites (two locations) and seasons (two years) were tested with a standard randomized complete block design, in search of a compromise for the production performance for both grain and straw, with the aim of reintroducing flax back into the northern Italian environment. Overall, grain yield reaches an average value of about 1.4 t ha−1 (dw), while straw yield reaches 2.77 t ha−1 (dw). The former is strictly dependent on the environmental effects of the growing site and season, while the effect of genotype was not significant. The straw yield also depends on the second-order interaction of the factors analyzed, although the performance of three varieties, Festival, Solal and Linoal, was noteworthy and seemed to respond well in both environments. Overall, it was found that flax can be conveniently grown for both grain and straw production.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass for Energy, Chemicals and Materials)
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Open AccessReview
Hydrochar Production by Hydrothermal Carbonization: Microwave versus Supercritical Water Treatment
by
Modupe Elizabeth Ojewumi and Gang Chen
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 574-598; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020031 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Hydrochar, a carbonaceous material produced through hydrothermal carbonization of lignocellulosic biomass, has gained significant attention due to its versatile applications in agriculture, energy, and environmental protection. This review extensively explores hydrochar production by hydrothermal carbonization, specifically microwave and supercritical water treatment. These innovative
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Hydrochar, a carbonaceous material produced through hydrothermal carbonization of lignocellulosic biomass, has gained significant attention due to its versatile applications in agriculture, energy, and environmental protection. This review extensively explores hydrochar production by hydrothermal carbonization, specifically microwave and supercritical water treatment. These innovative approaches hold substantial promises in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of hydrochar synthesis. The review commences with an in-depth analysis of the fundamental principles governing hydrochar production, emphasizing the distinct mechanisms of microwave and supercritical water treatment. Insightful discussions on the influence of critical process parameters, such as temperature, pressure, and residence time, underscore these factors’ pivotal role in tailoring hydrochar characteristics. Drawing on a wide array of research findings, the review evaluates the impact of different lignocellulosic biomass feedstocks on hydrochar properties, which is crucial for optimizing hydrochar production. The comparative assessment of microwave and supercritical water treatment sheds light on their unique advantages and challenges, guiding researchers toward informed decision-making in selection of methods. Furthermore, the review delves into the myriad applications of hydrochar, spanning soil amendment, carbon sequestration, and renewable energy. Environmental considerations and life cycle assessments associated with microwave and supercritical water treatment are also explored, providing a holistic perspective on the sustainability of hydrochar production. In conclusion, this comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on hydrochar production from diverse lignocellulosic biomass sources, emphasizing the efficacy of microwave and supercritical water methods.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the "2nd European Congress on Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development—Energy Trends 2024")
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Open AccessReview
Implications of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Management of Municipal Solid Waste and Medical Waste: A Comparative Review of Selected Countries
by
Ahmed Osama Daoud, Hoda Elattar, Gaber Abdelatif, Karim M. Morsy, Robert W. Peters and Mohamed K. Mostafa
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 555-573; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020030 - 4 Jun 2024
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The COVID-19 outbreak has impacted many daily activities and services we depend on. Due to changes in waste quantity and types, solid waste management (SWM) services such as waste collection, transportation, and treatment/disposal suffered. Global rules and mandates were issued to address these
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The COVID-19 outbreak has impacted many daily activities and services we depend on. Due to changes in waste quantity and types, solid waste management (SWM) services such as waste collection, transportation, and treatment/disposal suffered. Global rules and mandates were issued to address these changes and the COVID-19 pandemic. This mini review examines seven countries and summarises the pandemic’s effects on municipal solid waste (MSW) and medical waste (MW) generation in terms of amount and composition, the SWM sector’s challenges, and government or other SWM guidelines and management measures. The data are analysed to provide suggestions for stakeholders on SWM worker protection, waste segregation, and recycling. This article identified that extending MW incineration, separating infectious waste at the source, and discontinuing recycling for infection control are the best ways to manage solid waste. The waste management system’s readiness was crucial to the pandemic response. Thus, countries like China, which has a robust SWM system, were able to contain the crisis and restrict danger, while others with weaker systems struggled. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of revising waste management policies and developing crisis response strategies that integrate flexible, innovative solutions to adapt quickly to changing waste demands and ensure public health and environmental protection during global health crises.
Full article
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Circular Economics in Agricultural Waste Biomass Management
by
Luiz Henrique Sant’ Ana, Jessica R. P. Oliveira, Giovanna Gonçalves, Angelo M. Tusset and Giane G. Lenzi
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 543-554; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020029 - 3 Jun 2024
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The present study deals with the reuse of agro-industrial waste with a specific focus on biochar (processed plant biomass or biochar) consisting of organic and inorganic waste biomass subjected to thermochemical processes. The objective of this work is to carry out a systematic
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The present study deals with the reuse of agro-industrial waste with a specific focus on biochar (processed plant biomass or biochar) consisting of organic and inorganic waste biomass subjected to thermochemical processes. The objective of this work is to carry out a systematic review of the literature according to the Methodi Ordinatio methodology and select a bibliographic portfolio of high relevance to this study that makes it possible to present the concepts, applications and interest on the part of companies in including biochar in their processes, as well as addressing the environmental impacts linked to incorrect waste disposal. In this sense, biochar presents an interesting potential solution from both a waste management and environmental point of view. The current challenge is studies that prove economic viability.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Production, Extraction and Partial Characterization of Natural Pigments from Chryseobacterium sp. kr6 Growing on Feather Meal Biomass
by
Sabrine Gemelli, Silvana Terra Silveira, Maria Elisa Pailliè-Jiménez, Alessandro de Oliveira Rios and Adriano Brandelli
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 530-542; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020028 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Obtaining natural pigments from microorganisms is an alternative with high potential for biotechnological application. The use of agro-industrial wastes as substrate for cultivations enables a reduction of the production cost and may add value to potentially polluting byproducts. In this work, the extraction
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Obtaining natural pigments from microorganisms is an alternative with high potential for biotechnological application. The use of agro-industrial wastes as substrate for cultivations enables a reduction of the production cost and may add value to potentially polluting byproducts. In this work, the extraction of pigments produced by the bacterium Chryseobacterium sp. strain kr6 was evaluated, employing feather meal as the sole carbon source for bacterial growth. The maximum production of the yellow pigments was observed for cultivation at 30 °C, during 48 h, with 5 g/L feather meal. The pigment extraction from the bacterial biomass was performed with the aid of physical methods and the testing of different organic solvents. The conditions that provided better extraction were using ultrasound with acetone as the solvent, reaching a yield of 180 μg/g biomass after optimization. The pigment was partially characterized via UV-visible, FTIR and mass spectroscopy and CIELAB color parameters, suggesting the presence of molecules belonging to the flexirubin group (aryl polyenes). The antioxidant capacity of the pigment was confirmed via the scavenging of DPPH radical and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) methodologies. Moreover, the pigment extract showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the "2nd European Congress on Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development—Energy Trends 2024")
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Open AccessArticle
Environmentally Friendly and Cost-Effective Approaches to Reduce Toxin Content in Toxic Cyanobacterial Biomasses
by
Leticia Loss, Joana Azevedo, Tomé Azevedo, Marisa Freitas, Vitor Vasconcelos and Alexandre Campos
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 518-529; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020027 - 3 Jun 2024
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Cyanobacterial outgrowths are naturally occurring processes in eutrophic aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, as a result of climate change and anthropogenic pollution, cyanobacteria harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) are expanding worldwide. CyanoHABs are considered a threat to human health and environment due to the production of
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Cyanobacterial outgrowths are naturally occurring processes in eutrophic aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, as a result of climate change and anthropogenic pollution, cyanobacteria harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) are expanding worldwide. CyanoHABs are considered a threat to human health and environment due to the production of potent toxic substances, but at the same time, valuable products can be obtained from these microorganisms. The main objective of this study was to test straightforward and cost-effective methods to reduce the toxin content of cyanobacterial biomass for the exploitation of this important biological resource. To carry out this study, lyophilized or hydrated biomass from microcystin-LR (MC-LR) producing Microcystis aeruginosa and cylindrospermopsin (CYN) producing Chrysosporum ovalisporum strains were subjected to the following treatments: (1) thermal (50 °C); (2) ultraviolet (UV) radiation; (3) ozone; and (4) sunlight, for periods varying between 2 and 12 h. MC-LR and CYN concentrations were quantified by LC-MS and compared between experimental groups. The results show a significant reduction in the amount of MC-LR in M. aeruginosa biomass (lyophilized and hydrated) exposed to sunlight. Since no other treatment reduced MC-LR in M. aeruginosa biomass, this molecule was demonstrated to be very stable. Regarding CYN, the concentration of this toxin in C. ovalisporum biomass was significantly reduced with the exposure to UV radiation, to approximately 51% of the initial concentration after 2 h of exposure; 86% reduction after 5 h of exposure; and 77% reduction after 12 h of exposure. Overall, this study demonstrates that the toxicity of cyanobacterial biomass can be reduced by employing environmentally friendly and cost-effective treatments with sunlight and UV radiation.
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Open AccessArticle
Conversion of Sweet Whey to Bioethanol: A Bioremediation Alternative for Dairy Industry
by
Laura Conde-Báez, Cuauhtémoc F. Pineda-Muñoz, Carolina Conde-Mejía, Elizabeth Mas-Hernández and Antioco López-Molina
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 507-517; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020026 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
In many countries, whey from the dairy industry is an abundant waste that generates an important environmental impact. Alternative processes to use the whey and minimize the environmental impact are needed. This work considered six formulations with different ammonium sulfate and L-phenylalanine (L-Phe)
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In many countries, whey from the dairy industry is an abundant waste that generates an important environmental impact. Alternative processes to use the whey and minimize the environmental impact are needed. This work considered six formulations with different ammonium sulfate and L-phenylalanine (L-Phe) concentrations to produce bioethanol in sweet whey fermentation by Kluyveromyces marxianus. The results showed a maximum bioethanol concentration equal to 25.13 ± 0.37 g L−1 (p < 0.05) for formulation F6, with 1 g L−1 of L-Phe and 1.350 g L−1 of ammonium sulfate (96 h). For these conditions, the chemical oxygen demand removal percentage (CODR%) was 67%. The maximum CODR% obtained was 97.5% for formulation F3 (1 g L−1 of L-Phe) at 96 h; however, a significant decrease in bioethanol concentration (14.33 ± 2.58 g L−1) was observed. On the other hand, for formulation, F3, at 48 h of fermentation time, a bioethanol concentration of 23.71 ± 1.26 g L−1 was observed, with 76.5% CODR%. Based on these results, we suggest that the best conditions to obtain a significant bioethanol concentration and CODR% value are those used on the configuration F3 at 48 h.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fate and Migration of Biomass Products)
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Open AccessArticle
Photopolymerization of L-DOPA-Alginate Immobilized Cell Wall Laccase for Textile Dye Decolorization
by
Nikolina Popović Kokar, Anamarija Nikoletić, Marija Stanišić, Milica Crnoglavac Popović and Radivoje Prodanović
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 490-506; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020025 - 1 Jun 2024
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Alginate is a naturally occurring polymer derived from brown algae biomass, which has numerous applications in various fields. Chemical modification of alginate is widely used to improve alginate’s physicochemical properties and provide new potential for multiple applications. In this article, we modified alginate
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Alginate is a naturally occurring polymer derived from brown algae biomass, which has numerous applications in various fields. Chemical modification of alginate is widely used to improve alginate’s physicochemical properties and provide new potential for multiple applications. In this article, we modified alginate with L-DOPA, using periodate oxidation and reductive amination, to obtain more suitable biopolymer for biocatalyst immobilization and hydrogel formation. Obtained modified alginate was used for the immobilization of laccase on cell walls. For this purpose, laccase from Streptomyces cyaneus was expressed on the surface of Saccharomyces cerevisiae EBY100 cells. The obtained cell wall laccase was immobilized within L-DOPA-alginate beads by crosslinking the L-DOPA-alginate with calcium ions and laccase. The effect of additional crosslinking of beads by green light-induced photopolymerization with eosin Y was investigated. The immobilized laccase systems were used for dye decolorization and investigated in multiple treatment processes. Beads with L-DOPA-alginate with a higher degree of modification (5.0 mol%) showed higher enzymatic activity and better decolorization efficiency than those with a lower degree of modification (2.5 mol%). Obtained immobilized biocatalysts are suitable for decolorizing dye Evans Blue due to their high efficiency and reusability.
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Open AccessArticle
Recent Developments in Research on Food Waste and the Circular Economy
by
Sai-Leung Ng and Fung-Mei Wong
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 472-489; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020024 - 1 Jun 2024
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Food waste is a global challenge, with profound implications for food security, resource utilization, and sustainability. A circular economy represents a promising solution in addressing food waste effectively by keeping food materials and products in use and circulating them within the economy. To
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Food waste is a global challenge, with profound implications for food security, resource utilization, and sustainability. A circular economy represents a promising solution in addressing food waste effectively by keeping food materials and products in use and circulating them within the economy. To provide an overview of the research on food waste and the circular economy model in the past decade, this study examines 1022 documents on food waste and circular the economy to ascertain the state, themes, and knowledge structure of the field. The results showed that the number of publications has increased greatly in the past decade. “Circular economy of food”, “bioenergy”, “waste valorization”, “waste management”, “resource recovery”, and “environmental assessment” were the major research themes. Earlier studies focused on resource recovery from organic waste and the bioeconomy of bio-products; recent research interests shifted to sustainability and the valorization of agri-food waste. On the other hand, some highly cited documents and productive authors were important in the development of research on food waste and the circular economy. Furthermore, three groups of journals—“food and environmental sciences”, “open access”, and “environmental sustainability and resource management”—and five clusters of international collaboration—“European Union Group”, “advanced economy group”, “agricultural economies”, “global influencers”, and “isolated countries”—were identified. This study provides readers with an overview of the research field of food waste and the circular economy.
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