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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Biomass is one of the most promising renewable sources of value-added chemicals. Its valorization can lead to the formation of a wide group of industrially important chemical compounds. Despite the sustainable character of biomass conversion processes, their competitiveness compared to traditional methods of the production of valuable chemicals is still disputable. Therefore, it is especially important to expand research focused on the development of efficient and low-cost processing of this type of feedstock.

This Special Issue is devoted to the development of new technologies of biomass conversion to value-added chemicals. It includes the design of new catalysts, optimization of reaction conditions, application of biomass pretreatment, and development of multiple processes in modern biorefineries. Research on mechanisms of the reactions, as well as the determination of the products of biomass valorization and characterization of the feedstock are also welcomed. Moreover, papers on a broad range of research and applications related to the main topic fields are also encouraged.

Prof. Dr. Jacek Grams
Prof. Dr. Agnieszka Ruppert
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

biomass conversion
biomass valorization
catalytic conversion
catalyst
value-added chemicals
platform molecules
biofuel
bio-oil
hydrogen
biomass pretreatment
hydrolysis
hydrogenation
oxygenation
esterification
etherification
pyrolysis
gasification
hydrotreating
hydrodeoxygenation
biorefinery

Published Papers (2 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

19 pages, 5128 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Valorization of Cynara Cardunculus L. Oil as the Basis of a Biorefinery for Biodiesel and Biolubricant Production

by Sergio Nogales-Delgado, Nuria Sánchez and José María Encinar

Energies 2020, 13(19), 5085; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13195085 - 29 Sep 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2310

Abstract

The production of sustainable and biodegradable products, for energy or material use, is becoming important for local economies. Thus, biorefineries can play an important role in sustainable development at regional levels and therefore the search for feedstocks with multiple uses is vital. The goal of this research was to assess the implementation of Cynara Cardunculus L. oil as the basis of a biorefinery for biodiesel and biolubricant production, proposing the main steps for this purpose. The chemical reaction selected for biodiesel and biolubricant production was transesterification, using methanol and other more complex alcohols. The optimization of each step was carried out, assessing the yield by gas chromatography. Once the optimum conditions were selected, the main characteristics of the biofuel or biolubricant were measured, paying attention to viscosity and oxidative stability. As a result, Cynara Cardunculus L. oil could be a suitable feedstock for a biorefinery, as long as some antioxidants are added in final products, especially to increase its oxidative stability in biodiesel (whose value was 1.35 h). Concerning biolubricant production, the yields were acceptable (exceeding 92%) and the products showed variable viscosity values (from 8.6 to 18.85 cSt), implying a desirable diversification of production depending on demand. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomass Conversion to Value-Added Chemicals)

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Review

Jump to: Research

20 pages, 1781 KiB

Open AccessReview

Current Developments in Lignocellulosic Biomass Conversion into Biofuels Using Nanobiotechology Approach

by Mamata Singhvi and Beom Soo Kim

Energies 2020, 13(20), 5300; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13205300 - 12 Oct 2020

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 3702

Abstract

The conversion of lignocellulosic biomass (LB) to sugar is an intricate process which is the costliest part of the biomass conversion process. Even though acid/enzyme catalysts are usually being used for LB hydrolysis, enzyme immobilization has been recognized as a potential strategy nowadays. The use of nanobiocatalysts increases hydrolytic efficiency and enzyme stability. Furthermore, biocatalyst/enzyme immobilization on magnetic nanoparticles enables easy recovery and reuse of enzymes. Hence, the exploitation of nanobiocatalysts for LB to biofuel conversion will aid in developing a lucrative and sustainable approach. With this perspective, the effects of nanobiocatalysts on LB to biofuel production were reviewed here. Several traits, such as switching the chemical processes using nanomaterials, enzyme immobilization on nanoparticles for higher reaction rates, recycling ability and toxicity effects on microbial cells, were highlighted in this review. Current developments and viability of nanobiocatalysts as a promising option for enhanced LB conversion into the biofuel process were also emphasized. Mostly, this would help in emerging eco-friendly, proficient, and cost-effective biofuel technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomass Conversion to Value-Added Chemicals)

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