Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Applied Sciences applsci	2.9	6.1	2011	15 Days	CHF 2400
Biomass biomass	6.1	6.7	2021	19.3 Days	CHF 1200
Energies energies	3.9	8.3	2008	16.7 Days	CHF 2600
Fermentation fermentation	4.1	7.7	2015	16.8 Days	CHF 2100
Sustainability sustainability	4.1	8.9	2009	16.9 Days	CHF 2400

19 pages, 4535 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Moringa oleifera as a Sustainable Chlorophyll Source for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs)

by Sifiso Ngcobo, Ida Risenga, Aniekan Magnus Ukpong and Samson Oluwaseyi Bada

Biomass 2026, 6(4), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass6040051 - 7 Jul 2026

Viewed by 879

Chlorophyll, a natural photosynthetic pigment, is gaining interest for its sustainable and eco-friendly applications in renewable energy, particularly as a photosensitizer in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). This study investigates the feasibility of chlorophyll extracted from Moringa oleifera as a natural photosensitizer in DSSCs, [...] Read more.

Chlorophyll, a natural photosynthetic pigment, is gaining interest for its sustainable and eco-friendly applications in renewable energy, particularly as a photosensitizer in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). This study investigates the feasibility of chlorophyll extracted from Moringa oleifera as a natural photosensitizer in DSSCs, building on our previous work demonstrating its high chlorophyll content and long-term stability. Chlorophyll was extracted using acetone under optimal conditions (45 °C, 60 min) and applied in DSSCs comprising a TiO₂ photoanode, iodide/triiodide electrolyte, and platinum counter electrode. The TiO₂ photoanode was characterised using UV-Vis spectroscopy, FE-SEM, XRD, and Raman spectroscopy, confirming the presence of pure anatase phase TiO₂ with uniform spherical nanoparticle morphology. The fabricated DSSCs achieved a short-circuit current density of 0.197 mA cm⁻², an open-circuit voltage of 0.44 V, a fill factor of 32%, and a photoconversion efficiency (PCE) of 0.027%. While this performance is lower than the highest reported chlorophyll-based DSSC efficiency (4.6%), the results demonstrate that M. oleifera is a viable and sustainable source of chlorophyll for DSSC applications. The findings highlight the importance of dye–semiconductor interactions and suggest that further optimisation through co-sensitization, TiO₂ surface modification, and improved dye anchoring could enhance device performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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22 pages, 11811 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Pyrolysis Kinetics and Blending Ratio of Salix psammophila and Corn Stover Under a Nitrogen Atmosphere Based on TG-DTG and SEM

by Zhen Li, Hongyu Fu, Jinlu Yu, Hongqiang Wang, Wenkai Wang and Chao Fan

Sustainability 2026, 18(5), 2566; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18052566 - 5 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 590

Abstract

Understanding the thermal decomposition behavior and kinetic characteristics of blended biomass is crucial for optimizing thermochemical conversion processes. This study systematically investigates the synergistic pyrolysis (thermal decomposition) behavior of Salix psammophila (SP) and corn stover (CS) under a nitrogen atmosphere, with particular emphasis [...] Read more.

Understanding the thermal decomposition behavior and kinetic characteristics of blended biomass is crucial for optimizing thermochemical conversion processes. This study systematically investigates the synergistic pyrolysis (thermal decomposition) behavior of Salix psammophila (SP) and corn stover (CS) under a nitrogen atmosphere, with particular emphasis on process behavior and reaction kinetics (and thermodynamic feasibility). Based on elemental and proximate analyses, SP provides high calorific value and lignin content, while CS contributes high volatile matter and cellulose, enabling complementary interaction during thermal conversion. Three blending ratios (CS:SP = 2:1, 3:1, and 5:2) were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and kinetic evaluation via the Coats–Redfern, Flynn–Wall–Ozawa (FWO), and Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS) methods, together with thermodynamic parameter estimation (ΔH, ΔS, and ΔG). The results indicate that the 3:1 blend forms an optimized “continuous phase–dispersed phase” structure with an interfacial transition layer of 11–15 μm and uniformly distributed fine pores, promoting effective heat and mass transfer and facilitating volatile-release pathways across the blend interface. At a heating rate of 15 °C·min⁻¹, this blend exhibits the lowest onset temperature of rapid mass loss (T_onset, 209 °C), the highest comprehensive pyrolysis performance index (S_N, 3.01), and stable DTG profiles. Kinetic analysis confirmed that the 3:1 blend exhibits the lowest activation energy during the devolatilization stage, indicating enhanced reaction feasibility under inert conditions. The results provide mechanistic insight into biomass blending effects and offer guidance for process optimization in inert-atmosphere thermochemical conversion systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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24 pages, 2261 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mesophilic Trickle-Bed Reactors for Enhanced Ex Situ Biogas Upgrading at Short Gas Retention Times: Process Performance and Microbial Insights

by Christina Karyofyllidou, Apostolos Spyridonidis, Vasileios Diamantis, Ioannis Galiatsatos, George Tsiamis, Panagiota Stathopoulou, Ioannis Kosmadakis, Alexandros Eftaxias and Katerina Stamatelatou

Fermentation 2026, 12(2), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation12020069 - 26 Jan 2026

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2373

Abstract

Biological upgrading of biogas to biomethane is a promising power-to-gas technology with a low environmental footprint. However, due to the lower conversion rates, long-term investigations on mesophilic trickle-bed reactors (TBRs) remain scarce. This study systematically evaluated the performance of lab-scale mesophilic TBRs operated [...] Read more.

Biological upgrading of biogas to biomethane is a promising power-to-gas technology with a low environmental footprint. However, due to the lower conversion rates, long-term investigations on mesophilic trickle-bed reactors (TBRs) remain scarce. This study systematically evaluated the performance of lab-scale mesophilic TBRs operated for more than 600 days. A TBR packed with plastic media (Kaldnes K1) consistently achieved methane (CH₄) concentrations > 96% at GRTs as short as 2.2 h, and down to 1 h under a mild overpressure (0.1 bar). Mild pressurization (0.1 bar) enabled methane production rates (MPRs) of up to 2.8 NL L⁻¹ d⁻¹ under a hydrogen loading rate (HLR) of 14.9 NL L⁻¹ d⁻¹. At atmospheric pressure, stable MPRs of approximately 2 NL L⁻¹ d⁻¹ were achieved under an HLR of 9 NL L⁻¹ d⁻¹. Microbial community analysis revealed strong enrichment of hydrogenotrophic Methanobacterium (>90% relative abundance) in both suspended and attached biomass, confirming the establishment of a stable methanation pathway. Overall, the results demonstrate that high-rate and stable biomethanation can be achieved under mesophilic conditions at GRTs as low as 1 h, providing new insights for cost-effective biomethane production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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13 pages, 1583 KB

Open AccessArticle

Co-Gasification of Bio-Oil and Black Liquor as Renewable Gasification Feedstocks

by Jae Gyu Hwang, Seong Wan Hong, Myung Kyu Choi and Hang Seok Choi

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16010359 - 29 Dec 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1027

Abstract

The co-gasification of bio-oil produced via fast pyrolysis and black liquor from the pulp industry may yield a valuable feedstock for renewable gasification. This study investigated the synergistic potential of this co-gasification process. Experiments were conducted in a miniature conical spouted-bed reactor at [...] Read more.

The co-gasification of bio-oil produced via fast pyrolysis and black liquor from the pulp industry may yield a valuable feedstock for renewable gasification. This study investigated the synergistic potential of this co-gasification process. Experiments were conducted in a miniature conical spouted-bed reactor at 800 °C using bio-oil/black liquor mixing ratios ranging from 1:9 to 9:1 under equivalence ratios (ER) of 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5. Syngas characteristics and gasification performance were assessed using the lower heating value (LHV), H₂/CO ratio, cold gas efficiency (CGE), and carbon conversion ratio (CCR). Increasing the bio-oil fraction increased CO and CH₄ concentrations due to its higher carbon content and lower moisture content, whereas black liquor promoted H₂ formation through moisture-driven water–gas shift reactions. Higher ER values intensified combustion, increasing CO₂ while reducing combustible gases. The most energy-rich syngas, with the highest LHV and CGE, was obtained using a 9:1 mixture at ER = 0.1. The CCR was greatest for pure bio-oil and the 5:5 ratio among mixtures, reflecting the catalytic effects of alkali species in black liquor. These results demonstrate that co-gasification can improve syngas quality and carbon utilization, with optimal performance depending on the intended application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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19 pages, 1359 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Hydrogen Production via Dark Fermentation of Protein- and Lipid-Rich Municipal Organic Waste: Digestate Reuse and Ammonia Mitigation Strategies

by Gaogane Jephtah Gaogane, Patrick Sekoai and Cristina Trois

Fermentation 2025, 11(11), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11110623 - 1 Nov 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1822

Abstract

A major limitation to the conversion of OFMSW via anaerobic fermentation is the high concentration of animal-derived wastes, which can inhibit the process due to ammonia accumulation. This study assessed the reusability of ammonia-loaded, dark fermentation (DF) liquor at two reuse cycles, derived [...] Read more.

A major limitation to the conversion of OFMSW via anaerobic fermentation is the high concentration of animal-derived wastes, which can inhibit the process due to ammonia accumulation. This study assessed the reusability of ammonia-loaded, dark fermentation (DF) liquor at two reuse cycles, derived from the fermentation of protein/lipid-rich substrates. Mitigation strategies such as ammonia stripping and biochar addition were evaluated against unstripped and unrecycled bioreactors. The initial slurry was generated from DF of substrates with varying compositions of proteins and lipids, which yielded characteristic results, and subsequently applied under four operational variations namely biochar addition, ammonia stripping, and unstripped and unrecycled bioreactors. Biochar addition effectively mitigated against ammonia accumulation across both cycles. In the first cycle, it produced the highest hydrogen yield, outperforming stripped and unstripped bioreactors by 53.8%, and 76.9%, respectively. In cycle 2, biochar further outperformed stripped and unstripped bioreactors by 44.1% and 42.4%. Despite a higher ammonia exposure, microbial consortia in the unstripped bioreactors acclimatised more effectively than stripped bioreactors in the second cycle. The main limiting factor was not conversion efficiency but electron diversion due to competing metabolic pathways. This study provides new insights into biohydrogen enrichment from animal-derived wastes, while emphasising mitigation strategies amid freshwater savings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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23 pages, 3074 KB

Open AccessArticle

Location Allocation of Corn Stover Pretreatment Facilities in South Korea Under an Agent-Based Simulation Framework

by Youngjin Kim, Junyoung Seo and Sojung Kim

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(17), 9488; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15179488 - 29 Aug 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1276

Abstract

This research proposes a novel location allocation framework that utilizes agent-based simulation for the efficient production of corn stover-based bioethanol, which requires dedicated pretreatment facilities for the feedstock. The framework comprises two main modules: (1) a Pretreatment Facility Module that assesses the performance [...] Read more.

This research proposes a novel location allocation framework that utilizes agent-based simulation for the efficient production of corn stover-based bioethanol, which requires dedicated pretreatment facilities for the feedstock. The framework comprises two main modules: (1) a Pretreatment Facility Module that assesses the performance of the corn stover-based bioethanol supply chain based on the interactions among three types of agents, namely order agent, pretreatment agent, and transport agent, and (2) an Optimization Module designed to determine the optimal supply chain configuration by selecting the most suitable number and locations for pretreatment facilities to achieve the lowest total operational cost. The framework is implemented in a case study for South Korea, which aims to raise the bioethanol blending ratio from 4% in 2025 to 8% by 2030. Experimental results reveal that, within the bioethanol supply chain comprising eight farms and four refineries, a 1% increase in bioethanol blending ratio leads to an increase in the demand for approximately 2229 kL of ethanol (10,225 tons of corn stover), and the proposed framework enables to identify the optimal location of pretreatment facilities in the subject supply chain according to the change in ethanol demand. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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22 pages, 1419 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bioconversion of Olive Pomace: A Solid-State Fermentation Strategy with Aspergillus sp. for Detoxification and Enzyme Production

by Laura A. Rodríguez, María Carla Groff, Sofía Alejandra Garay, María Eugenia Díaz, María Fabiana Sardella and Gustavo Scaglia

Fermentation 2025, 11(8), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11080456 - 6 Aug 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2904

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate solid-state fermentation (SSF) as a sustainable approach for the simultaneous detoxification of olive pomace (OP) and the production of industrially relevant enzymes. OP, a semisolid byproduct of olive oil extraction, is rich in lignocellulose and phenolic compounds, which [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate solid-state fermentation (SSF) as a sustainable approach for the simultaneous detoxification of olive pomace (OP) and the production of industrially relevant enzymes. OP, a semisolid byproduct of olive oil extraction, is rich in lignocellulose and phenolic compounds, which limit its direct reuse due to phytotoxicity. A native strain of Aspergillus sp., isolated from OP, was employed as the biological agent, while grape pomace (GP) was added as a co-substrate to enhance substrate structure. Fermentations were conducted at two scales, Petri dishes (20 g) and a fixed-bed bioreactor (FBR, 2 kg), under controlled conditions (25 °C, 7 days). Key parameters monitored included dry and wet weight loss, pH, color, phenolic content, and enzymatic activity. Significant reductions in color and polyphenol content were achieved, reaching 68% in Petri dishes and 88.1% in the FBR, respectively. In the FBR, simultaneous monitoring of dry and wet weight loss enabled the estimation of fungal biotransformation, revealing a hysteresis phenomenon not previously reported in SSF studies. Enzymes such as xylanase, endopolygalacturonase, cellulase, and tannase exhibited peak activities between 150 and 180 h, with maximum values of 424.6 U·g⁻¹, 153.6 U·g⁻¹, 67.43 U·g⁻¹, and 6.72 U·g⁻¹, respectively. The experimental data for weight loss, enzyme production, and phenolic reduction were accurately described by logistic and first-order models. These findings demonstrate the high metabolic efficiency of the fungal isolate under SSF conditions and support the feasibility of scaling up this process. The proposed strategy offers a low-cost and sustainable solution for OP valorization, aligning with circular economy principles by transforming agro-industrial residues into valuable bioproducts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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18 pages, 2223 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Erythromycin Elimination from Erythromycin Fermentation Residue via Anaerobic Volatile Fatty Acid Production Under Mesophilic Conditions

by Jianjun Ren, Xilong Xia, Honggang Mao, Lixia Zhu, Mohammad J. Taherzadeh, Yiliang Chen, Dongze Niu, Chunyu Li, Rui Tang, Xiancheng Qi, Chuanyang Xu and Dongmin Yin

Fermentation 2025, 11(6), 320; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11060320 - 4 Jun 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2072

Abstract

Erythromycin fermentation residue (EFR) is difficult to dispose of due to its high content of macrolide erythromycin. An alternative economic method was proposed in this study for erythromycin elimination in EFR through volatile fatty acid (VFA) production via an anaerobic digestion process. Different [...] Read more.

Erythromycin fermentation residue (EFR) is difficult to dispose of due to its high content of macrolide erythromycin. An alternative economic method was proposed in this study for erythromycin elimination in EFR through volatile fatty acid (VFA) production via an anaerobic digestion process. Different parameters were applied to evaluate the effects on energy recovery of VFA together with erythromycin elimination from EFR through batch assays under mesophilic conditions. Results demonstrated that anaerobic digestion technology for VFA production can significantly enhance erythromycin elimination in EFR. The highest removal efficiency of 86.7–87.5% was obtained at conditions of controlled pH at 11.0, with erythromycin decreasing from an initial 100.2 to 12.6–14.0 mg/L. Additionally, controlled pH during the digestion process was reported to positively improve VFA yield to a maximum of 1.04 g-COD/g-VS than the adjustment of initial pH (0.46 g-COD/g-VS). Metabolic analysis alongside high-throughput sequence analysis further demonstrated the high hydrolysis and acidogenesis activities of EFR during the VFA accumulation process. Dominate enzymes EC:3.2.1.40, EC:6.2.1.3, EC:4.1.2.14, EC:2.7.2.1, and EC:1.1.1.27 well balanced the whole process from organic to VFA at pH controlled 11.0. The current study provided a new feasible choice for the economical treatment of antibiotic fermentation residues due to the tolerable antibiotic removal efficiency and satisfactory VFA yield. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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17 pages, 1418 KB

Open AccessArticle

Screening Microalgae for Producing Biofuel Precursors from Industrial Off-Gases

by Giannis Penloglou, Alexandros Pavlou and Costas Kiparissides

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2964; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072964 - 27 Mar 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1755

Abstract

The capture and conversion of industrial off-gases into valuable biomass using microalgae represents a promising strategy for CO₂ mitigation and sustainable production of biofuels and biochemicals. In this study, fifteen (15) microalgal strains were screened and evaluated for their growth performance and [...] Read more.

The capture and conversion of industrial off-gases into valuable biomass using microalgae represents a promising strategy for CO₂ mitigation and sustainable production of biofuels and biochemicals. In this study, fifteen (15) microalgal strains were screened and evaluated for their growth performance and the accumulation of macromolecules like polysaccharides and lipids under CO₂-enriched conditions, simulating the off-gas composition of an operational 2G biorefinery producing bioethanol from wastes. It was found that Stichococcus sp. exhibited the highest polysaccharides accumulation (33% w/w) in biomass, while Chlorella vulgaris demonstrated superior lipids content (34% w/w). Both strains (coded as wild-AUTH) displayed robust growth, each achieving biomass concentrations of 1.5 g/L of Dry Cell Weight (DCW), while maintaining tolerance to the gas feedstock. The protein contents of the strains further support their potential integration into a 3G biorefinery framework, where advanced biofuels could be one of multiple valorization pathways. These findings underline the feasibility of using microalgae as a retrofitting solution for bioethanol and other bioenergy plants, enhancing CO₂ capture while enabling biofuel production. The top-performing species provide a basis for optimizing bioprocess parameters and scaling up the cultivation in industrial photobioreactors (PBRs) to improve productivity and commercial applicability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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20 pages, 1010 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of the Integration Level in Crop–Livestock Systems on Biomass Production, Nutrient Recycling, and Energy Efficiency

by Arnulfo Domínguez-Hernández, Alejandra Juárez-Velázquez, Elisa Domínguez-Hernández, Rosalba Zepeda-Bautista, Claudia Hernández-Aguilar and Martha Domínguez-Hernández

Biomass 2025, 5(2), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass5020019 - 25 Mar 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 9095

Abstract

Sustainable agricultural practices are essential to address global food security challenges while minimizing environmental impacts. This study aimed to evaluate integrated farming systems with varying levels of integration (from lower to higher)—maize monoculture + livestock (MM), maize + cover crop + mixed prairie [...] Read more.

Sustainable agricultural practices are essential to address global food security challenges while minimizing environmental impacts. This study aimed to evaluate integrated farming systems with varying levels of integration (from lower to higher)—maize monoculture + livestock (MM), maize + cover crop + mixed prairie + livestock (MCP), and maize + red clover + mixed prairie + livestock (MRP)—to assess their contributions to circularity and sustainability. The research examined biomass and protein production, nutrient cycling, energy use, food needs covered, and workload over two cropping cycles. The findings revealed that highly integrated systems (MRP and MCP) significantly enhance biomass production, energy efficiency, and nutrient recycling compared to the MM system (p < 0.05). MRP produced 4 times more biomass than MM (9.4 t ha⁻¹), while MCP achieved a 0.99 Nitrogen Recycling Index compared with 0.38 in MM, underscoring the benefits of grazing and increasing agrobiodiversity. Integrated systems also improved soil health (+17.4% organic matter in MRP and MCP, +91.5% nitrogen in MCP), reduced dependency on synthetic inputs, and boosted protein production (animal-derived protein in MRP and MCP = 395.4 kg, MM = 73.7 kg), thus meeting food needs for large populations. However, they required increased labor and technical expertise, presenting adoption barriers for smallholders. The synergy between agroecological practices and circularity offers a pathway to sustainable intensification, fostering economic, environmental, and social resilience. In this way, the results highlighted the potential of integrated farming systems to transform agricultural systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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25 pages, 1968 KB

Open AccessReview

Review of Machine Learning Methods for Steady State Capacity and Transient Production Forecasting in Oil and Gas Reservoir

by Dongyan Fan, Sicen Lai, Hai Sun, Yuqing Yang, Can Yang, Nianyang Fan and Minhui Wang

Energies 2025, 18(4), 842; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18040842 - 11 Feb 2025

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5005

Abstract

Accurate oil and gas production forecasting is essential for optimizing field development and operational efficiency. Steady-state capacity prediction models based on machine learning techniques, such as Linear Regression, Support Vector Machines, Random Forest, and Extreme Gradient Boosting, effectively address complex nonlinear relationships through [...] Read more.

Accurate oil and gas production forecasting is essential for optimizing field development and operational efficiency. Steady-state capacity prediction models based on machine learning techniques, such as Linear Regression, Support Vector Machines, Random Forest, and Extreme Gradient Boosting, effectively address complex nonlinear relationships through feature selection, hyperparameter tuning, and hybrid integration, achieving high accuracy and reliability. These models maintain relative errors within acceptable limits, offering robust support for reservoir management. Recent advancements in spatiotemporal modeling, Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs), and agent-based modeling have further enhanced transient production forecasting. Spatiotemporal models capture temporal dependencies and spatial correlations, while PINN integrates physical laws into neural networks, improving interpretability and robustness, particularly for sparse or noisy data. Agent-based modeling complements these techniques by combining measured data with numerical simulations to deliver real-time, high-precision predictions of complex reservoir dynamics. Despite challenges in computational scalability, data sensitivity, and generalization across diverse reservoirs, future developments, including multi-source data integration, lightweight architectures, and real-time predictive capabilities, can further improve production forecasting, addressing the complexities of oil and gas production while supporting sustainable resource management and global energy security. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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29 pages, 6511 KB

Open AccessReview

Analysis of the Sugarcane Biomass Use to Produce Green Hydrogen: Brazilian Case Study

by Gustavo Henrique Romeu da Silva, Andreas Nascimento, Diego Nascimento, Julian David Hunt and Mauro Hugo Mathias

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 1675; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15031675 - 6 Feb 2025

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6780

Abstract

Conventional hydrogen production processes, which often involve fossil raw materials, emit significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This study critically evaluates the feasibility of using sugarcane biomass as an energy source to produce green hydrogen. In the 2023/2024 harvest, Brazil, the [...] Read more.

Conventional hydrogen production processes, which often involve fossil raw materials, emit significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This study critically evaluates the feasibility of using sugarcane biomass as an energy source to produce green hydrogen. In the 2023/2024 harvest, Brazil, the world’s largest sugarcane producer, processed approximately 713.2 million metric tons of sugarcane. This yielded 45.68 million metric tons of sugar and 29.69 billion liters of first-generation ethanol, equivalent to approximately 0.0416 liters of ethanol per kilogram of sugarcane. A systematic literature review was conducted using Scopus and Clarivate Analytics Web of Science, resulting in the assessment of 335 articles. The study has identified seven potential biohydrogen production methods, including two direct approaches from second-generation ethanol and five from integrated bioenergy systems. Experimental data indicate that second-generation ethanol can yield 594 MJ per metric ton of biomass, with additional energy recovery from lignin combustion (1705 MJ per metric ton). Moreover, advances in electrocatalytic reforming and plasma-driven hydrogen production have demonstrated high conversion efficiencies, addressing key technical barriers. The results highlight Brazil’s strategic potential to integrate biohydrogen production within its existing bioenergy infrastructure. By leveraging sugarcane biomass for green hydrogen, the country can contribute significantly to the global transition to sustainable energy while enhancing its energy security. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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14 pages, 12020 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Microplastics on Growth and Lipid Accumulation in Scenedesmus quadricauda

by Yanrui Wang, Fei Xie, Wenwen Li, Li Ji, Guoqing Guan, Abuliti Abudula, Zhihong Yang and Feng Gao

Fermentation 2025, 11(2), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11020056 - 28 Jan 2025

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4717

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs), as frequent pollutants, persist in aquatic environments and have an impact on the growth and biomass production of microalgae. This study employed MPs of polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), and polypropylene (PP) at concentrations of 250 mg/L with MP sizes of 50, [...] Read more.

Microplastics (MPs), as frequent pollutants, persist in aquatic environments and have an impact on the growth and biomass production of microalgae. This study employed MPs of polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), and polypropylene (PP) at concentrations of 250 mg/L with MP sizes of 50, 100, 300, and 500 µm to investigate their influences on the growth and bio-production of Scenedesmus quadricauda. The results revealed that MPs suppressed the growth of S. quadricauda and increased algal lipid production. The order of the MPs in terms of their inhibitory and lipid production effect was the following: PP > PS > PE. The order of their size sensitivity was 50 > 100 > 300 > 500 µm. In the 50 µm PP culture, the inhibition of microalgal growth (inhibition rate: 49.26%) and accumulation of lipids (total lipid content: 65.40%) were most significant, especially with neutral lipid content. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses proved that the rough MP surface led to high aggregation of microalgae, reduced the intensities of the protein-, lipid-, and carbohydrate-related bands and affected the structure of the algal cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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23 pages, 6251 KB

Open AccessArticle

Activated Biochar from Pineapple Crown Biomass: A High-Efficiency Adsorbent for Organic Dye Removal

by Francisco J. Cano, Odín Reyes-Vallejo, Rocío Magdalena Sánchez-Albores, Pathiyamattom Joseph Sebastian, Abumalé Cruz-Salomón, Maritza del Carmen Hernández-Cruz, Wilber Montejo-López, Mayram González Reyes, Rocío del Pilar Serrano Ramirez and Héctor Hiram Torres-Ventura

Sustainability 2025, 17(1), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17010099 - 27 Dec 2024

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 7353

Abstract

Renowned for its versatility in environmental applications, biochar exhibits substantial potential to enhance anaerobic digestion, facilitate carbon sequestration, and improve water treatment through its highly efficient adsorption mechanisms. This study focuses on biochar derived from pineapple crown biomass, produced through slow pyrolysis, and [...] Read more.

Renowned for its versatility in environmental applications, biochar exhibits substantial potential to enhance anaerobic digestion, facilitate carbon sequestration, and improve water treatment through its highly efficient adsorption mechanisms. This study focuses on biochar derived from pineapple crown biomass, produced through slow pyrolysis, and its efficiency in removing organic dyes from contaminated water. The structural, morphological, and surface properties of both biochar and chemically activated biochar samples were comprehensively characterized using a range of techniques, including XRD, FTIR, XPS, BET surface area analysis, and SEM microscopy. The adsorption performance was evaluated using methylene blue (MB), rhodamine B (RhB), and malachite green (MG) dyes as model contaminants, with particular emphasis on the contact time on dye removal efficiency. Initial results showed removal rates of 10.8%, 37.5%, and 88.4% for RhB, MB, and MG, respectively. Notably, chemical activation significantly enhanced the adsorption efficiency, achieving complete (100%) removal of all tested dyes. Complete adsorption of MB and MG occurred within 9 min, indicating rapid adsorption kinetics. Adsorption data fit well with pseudo-second-order kinetics (R² = 0.9748–0.9999), and the Langmuir isotherm (R² = 0.9770–0.9998) suggested monolayer adsorption with chemical interactions between dyes and biochar. The intraparticle diffusion model further clarified the adsorption mechanisms. These findings demonstrate the efficacy of activated biochar for dye removal and highlight the potential of pineapple crown biomass in environmental remediation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass: Advanced Strategies for Renewable Chemicals and Energy Production)

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