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Agricultural crop production practices are being developed for organic, sustainable, and environmentally friendly farming systems. Developing efficient and resourceful crop fertilizers is significantly important for future agriculture. Various biofertilizers, such as animal manures, composts, and vegetable byproducts, have been successfully applied in agriculture. Anaerobic digestate, organic matter obtained from animal or plant waste processing during anaerobic digestion into biomass, has become popular due to its versatility, multiple purposes, and facile application methods. Digestate has recently been widely used in agriculture to enrich the soil with nutrients and thus increase crop yields. Several studies have shown that anaerobic digestate is a valuable fertilizer that can be used as a biofertilizer in field and greenhouse horticulture. Also, research has been carried out on the use of digestate in hydroponic horticulture. This review presents the research results and discusses the possibilities of using anaerobic digestate in greenhouse horticulture. Its objective is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the application of digestate from various sources and its impact on the growth, progress, yield, and quality of greenhouse-grown vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global increase in energy consumption, driven by population growth and improved living standards, has led to a heavy reliance on fossil fuels, causing significant environmental concerns. This has prompted a shift toward sustainable energy sources, with biomass, especially lignocellulosic forest biomass, emerging as a key alternative due to its abundance and carbon-neutral potential. Microwave-assisted pyrolysis (MAP) is an efficient method for converting forest biomass into valuable bioproducts and bioenergy with reduced energy use. This review introduces biomass types, focusing on forest biomass and its role in global energy production. It compares MAP to conventional pyrolysis, highlighting the benefits of rapid, uniform heating and improved product yields. Key operational conditions, such as temperature, microwave power, biomass size, and catalyst ratios, are discussed in relation to their impact on product quality and yield. Despite its advantages, MAP faces challenges, particularly in temperature control, which can affect bio-oil yield and quality. High temperatures may cause unwanted secondary reactions, while low temperatures can lead to incomplete decomposition. Research into biomass dielectric properties and process modeling is essential in order to optimize MAP and scale it up for industrial use. Addressing bio-oil quality issues through catalytic upgrading is also critical for broader adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar (BC) applications in soil has positive effects on plant performance, particularly for loose soil in agricultural context. However, how biochar types affect plant performance of non-crop species and soil–plant carbon relationships is not clear. We selected five different BC types and three plant species to investigate the responses of plant performance and the soil–plant carbon relationship to BC effects. The result demonstrated that peanut shell BC led to the death of both R. tomentosa and C. edithiae, due to a reduction in nutrient uptake caused by higher soil electricity conductivity (2001.7 and 976.3 µS cm−1). However, the carbon content of S. arboricola increased by 57% in peanut shell BC-amended soil, suggesting that S. arboricola has a higher tolerance for soil salinity. Wood BC-amended soil led to better stomatal conductance (gs) and leaf area index (LAI) of both R. tomentosa and C. edithiae due to the higher water retention in the soil (22.68% and 20.79%). This illustrated that a higher amount of water retention brought by wood BC with a great amount of pore volume might be the limited factor for plant growth. The relationship between gs and LAI suggested that gs would not increase when LAI reached beyond 3. Moreover, wood and peanut shell BC caused a negative relationship between soil organic carbon and plant carbon content, suggesting that plants consume more carbon from the soil to store it in the plant. Overall, wood BC is recommended for plant growth of R. tomentosa and C. edithiae, and peanut shell BC is suggested for S. arboricola carbon storage. Highlights: Peanut shell biochar enhanced soil salinity which causes the death of R. tomentosa and C. edithiae, while wood biochar is suitable for these plant species. Wood and peanut shell biochar caused a negative relationship between soil organic carbon and plant carbon content. The stomatal conductance will not increase when the leaf area reaches the limiting value 3. An empirical function is developed to correlate plant carbon content and leaf area index under different biochar applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Africa, specifically Nigeria, has witnessed a dramatic increase in population over the last century, prompting efforts to ensure sustainable food production and quality. Concerns for soil sustainability and food security have led to the exploration of cost-effective methods, such as biochar, to enhance soil quality. Researchers in Nigeria and Africa as a whole have investigated biochar's potential to improve soil fertility and crop performance across various agroecological zones. This paper aims to review recent biochar research priorities on soil fertility and crop performance with an emphasis on various sole biochar applications and combinations with fertilizers to determine the research gaps that need to be developed more in biochar research in Nigeria. From the papers reviewed, sole biochar applications and biochar + macronutrients and biochar + manure combinations were studied more dominantly, while biochar + micronutrients research projects were scanty despite their low content in the semi-arid soils of Nigeria. The studies were spread across the country with the majority taking place in derived savanna and humid forest, while Sudan savanna and Sahel savanna received less research attention despite being characterized by a low-fertile soil and vast area of land. Research involving BC in the context of Sahel savanna (SLS) and Sudan savanna (SS) soils is strongly encouraged in Nigeria. This research should encompass a wide range of investigations, including sole BC applications and combinations of BC with macronutrients, micronutrients, and manure, as well as exploring its potential as a slow-release fertilizer. Incorporating exclusive biochar in substantial amounts appears economically unfeasible within the context of local biochar production. However, it can be utilized in the synthesis of slow-release fertilizers, requiring smaller quantities and potentially offering cost-effectiveness. This approach enhances soil condition and crop productivity. Challenges are faced due to less commercial production as a result of inadequate power and structural facilities. Exploring the modification of local biochar for slow-release fertilizers through future research offers potential profitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the current status and distribution of the feedstock of biogas engineering in China, evaluates the temperature conditions for anaerobic co-digestion (AcoD), and assesses the biogas production potential of feedstock in AcoD, including six feedstocks, namely, maize straw (M), wheat straw (W), rice straw (R), pig manure (P), cow manure (C), and sheep manure (S). The total amount of M, W, and R was 3.89 × 108, 2.10 × 108, and 1.50 × 108 tons, respectively, and that of P, C, and S was 8.46 × 108, 1.31 × 109, and 4.95 × 108 tons, respectively. However, the spatial distributions and amount of those resources were found to be uneven in China. Heilongjiang has abundant maize straw, and Henan has abundant wheat resources. Sichuan is rich in cow manure, while Inner Mongolia is rich in sheep manure. The analysis of total biogas production (TBP) by mono-digestion and codigestion (using two feedstocks at ratio of 1:9, 3:7, 5:5, 7:3 and 9:1) showed that co-digestion outperforms mono-digestion under 15 and 25 °C. Thus, it is necessary to study anaerobic co-digestion scheme (AcoDS), which will provide a reference for biogas engineering in different regions to promote the biogas yield based on their actual situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen has a high and diversified amount of feedstocks, methods, and improvement processes for its production. In recent years, studies on hydrogen production have been growing and diversifying to a greater extent. Hydrogen production can be based on renewable feedstocks such as biomass or fossil fuels such as petroleum. An analysis of 10,655 publications from the Web of Science Core Collection database (2010–2022) was performed using VOSviewer, CiteSpace and Microsoft excel. The top three organizations that had the highest number of publications in the field of hydrogen production included the Chinese Academy Of Sciences, Ontario Tech University and Xi An Jiaotong University. The journal with the largest number of publications is the International Journal Of Hydrogen Energy. In addition to organizations and journals, the most promising authors and literature in this field of research were analyzed. Through cluster analysis, it was found that two constant search fields were Photocatalytic hydrogen production and Fermentative hydrogen production. Future studies should focus on process design, continuous photo-hydrogen production and looping steam. This bibliometric study focused on illustrating the overview of hydrogen production research, conducting a systematic survey of current research, which could be used by industry professionals and researchers interested in this area. [Display omitted] • Research on hydrogen production is assessed via the bibliometric method. • Presentation of the growing interest in research on hydrogen production. • Microsoft Excell, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace are employed to analyze 10,655 publications. • Comprehensive research guidelines are given for hydrogen researchers and producers. • Analysis of the most used and least used raw material for hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many biotechnology applications tend to be for low production volumes and relatively high-value products such as insulin and vaccines. More difficult to perfect at scale are bioprocesses for high-volume products with lower value, especially if the target product is a reduced chemical such as a solvent or a plastic. Historically, industrial microbiology succeeded under special circumstances when fossil feedstocks were either unavailable or expensive. Inevitably, as these circumstances relaxed, bioprocesses struggled to compete with petrochemistry. Why try to compete? Fossil resources will be phased out in the coming decades in the struggle with climate change. To reach net-zero carbon by 2050 will require all sectors to transition, not only energy and transportation. This may herald a new opportunity for industrial bioprocesses with much better tools. Some of the issues around biotechnology in the first issue of Trends in Biotechnology remain issues today despite huge advances in technology. The Weizmann process and single-cell protein thrived, died, but may be on their way back. The bioeconomy envisages the gradual replacement of oil and gas, but the price of oil is very often a determining factor in the success of any competing technology. Net-zero carbon aspirations should be a huge opportunity for biotechnologies. The automation possible in the biofoundry allied to automated chemical synthesis seems to hold the key. Many of the hardest-to-abate industrial sectors cannot be decarbonized, but they might be 'defossilized'. Governments need to invest in bio-based manufacturing to bring them more quickly to the marketplace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Feed molecular structures can affect its availability to gastrointestinal enzymes which impact its digestibility and absorption. The molecular spectroscopy-attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared vibrational spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) is an advanced technique that measures the absorbance of chemical functional groups on the infrared region so that we can identify and quantify molecules and functional groups in a feed. The program aimed to reveal the association of intrinsic molecular structure with nutrient supply to animals from canola feedstocks and co-products from bio-oil processing. The objective of this study was to characterize special intrinsic carbohydrate and protein-related molecular structure spectral profiles of feedstock and co-products (meal and pellets) from bio-oil processing from two source origins: Canada (CA) and China (CH). Methods: The samples of feedstock and co-products were obtained from five different companies in each country arranged by the Canola Council of Canada (CCC). The molecular structure spectral features were analyzed using advanced vibrational molecular spectroscopy-ATR-FTIR. The spectral features that accessed included: i) protein-related spectral features (Amide I, Amide II, α-helix, β-sheet, and their spectral intensity ratios), ii) carbohydraterelated spectral features (TC1, TC2, TC3, TC4, CEC, STC1, STC2, STC3, STC4, TC, and their spectral intensity ratios). Results: The results showed that significant differences were observed on all vibrationally spectral features related to total carbohydrates, structural carbohydrates, and cellulosic compounds (p<0.05), except spectral features of TC2 and STC1 (p>0.05) of co-products, where CH meals presented higher peaks of these structures than CA. Similarly, it was for the carbohydrate-related molecular structure of canola seeds where the difference between CA and CH occurred except for STC3 height, CEC and STC areas (p>0.05). The proteinrelated molecular structures were similar for the canola seeds from both countries. However, CH meals presented higher peaks of amide I, α-helix, and β-sheet heights, α-helix:β-sheet ratio, total amide and amide I areas (p<0.05). Conclusion: The principal component analysis was able to explain over 90% of the variabilities in the carbohydrate and protein structures although it was not able to separate the samples from the two countries, indicating feedstock and coproducts interrelationship between CH and CA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The average sizes of copper and nickel nano- and microparticles formed at exploding wires in the range of inhomogeneous and homogeneous heating have been established. The average size of nanoparticles grows, and that of microparticles decreases when the value of energy input into wires reaching E ≈ 0,5Es (Es - sublimation energy). While E > 0.5Es the dependence of the average sizes of nano- and microparticles is weakly expressed. The viscosity of feedstocks increases as the proportion of nanoparticles in the powder increases and their size decreases. At equal dispersity and mass content of particles in the polymer, the feedstock viscosity has been found to depend on the adsorption behavior of metals. The analysis of temperature dependence of the feedstock viscosity based on copper and nickel powders has shown that the optimum values of E/Es for one-stage production of micro-nanoparticle powders by the exploding wires lie in the range of 0.4 ... 0.7. [Display omitted] • Оptimum values of E/Es for production of powders lie in the range of 0.4 ... 0.7 • In the region E/Es < 0.5 observed decrease size nanoparticles • Viscosity of feedstock containing 50 vol% copper and nickel at 130 °C equal to 1000–1500 Pa*s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodiesel can be produced from vegetable oils, animal fats, frying oils, and from microorganism-synthesized oils. These sources render biodiesel an easily biodegradable fuel. The aim of this work was to perform an advanced bibliometric analysis of primary studies relating to biodiesel production worldwide by identifying the key countries and regions that have shown a strong engagement in this area, and by understanding the dynamics of their collaboration and research outputs. Additionally, an assessment of the main primary feedstocks employed in this research was carried out, along with an analysis of the current and future trends that are expected to define new paths and methodologies to be used in the manufacture of biodegradable and renewable fuels. A total of 4586 academic outputs were selected, including peer-reviewed research articles, conference papers, and literature reviews related to biodiesel production, in the time period spanning from 2010 to 2021. Articles that focused on feedstocks for the production of biodiesel were also included, with a search that returned 330 papers. Lastly, 60 articles relating to biodiesel production via sewage were specifically included to allow for an analysis of this source as a promising feedstock in the future of the biofuel market. Via the geocoding and the document analyses performed, we concluded that China, Malaysia, and India are the largest writers of articles in this area, revealing a great interest in biofuels in Asia. Additionally, it was noted that environmental concerns have caused authors to conduct research on feedstocks that can address the sustainability challenges in the production of biodiesel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The over-consumption of petroleum fuel due to the progressive increase in population, transportation, industrialization, modernization as well as improvement in the lifestyle of the society leads to the fast declining of non-renewable resources. Therefore, it is important to discover low cost, environmentally friendly and sustainable surrogates of petroleum fuels. In this regard, biodiesel production is one of the gorgeous solutions for the research community. Contrary to the benefits, the high cost of the biodiesel is the main disadvantage, greatly reliant on the feedstock. In this sense, wild olive oil was explored for the first time as a suitable and novel feedstock for biodiesel technology development. The fatty acid composition was identified by GC–MS analysis whereas various physiochemical properties were determined by ASTM and EN methods. Furthermore, this review paper conveys a detailed overview of biodiesel production technologies, various generation feedstocks and types of catalyst along with their plausible mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochemistry on Earth makes use of the key elements carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur (or CHONPS). Chemically accessible molecules containing these key elements would presumably have been necessary for prebiotic chemistry and the origins of life on Earth. For example, feedstock molecules including fixed nitrogen (e.g., ammonia, nitrite, nitrate), accessible forms of phosphorus (e.g., phosphate, phosphite, etc.), and sources of sulfur (e.g., sulfide, sulfite) may have been necessary for the origins of life, given the biochemistry seen in Earth life today. This review describes potential sources of nitrogen-, sulfur-, and phosphorus-containing molecules in the context of planetary environments. For the early Earth, such considerations may be able to aid in the understanding of our own origins. Additionally, as we learn more about potential environments on other planets (for example, with upcoming next-generation telescope observations or new missions to explore other bodies in our Solar System), evaluating potential sources for elements necessary for life (as we know it) can help constrain the potential habitability of these worlds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro hot embossing is a well-established technology to produce polymer microdevices and parts. This technology on metal powder/binder feedstocks is an innovator challenge that fits into the sustainable circular economy, being excellent for small series production of precision metallic parts. The powder hot embossing technology is integrated into processes denominated SDS (shaping, debinding, and sintering). This study presents the feasibility of replicating the die features into metallic parts by comparing two binders (Lc and M1). A new binder involves optimising critical parameters during hot embossing to ensure the replication of microdetails and the quality of metallic parts. Comparing the two binders, Lc contributes to the best precision of geometric details, and M1 improves surface quality. The study shows that hot powder embossing is a promising process to manufacture metallic parts with high precision and high-quality geometrical features on a microscale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Model parameters must be exact in order to employ mechanistic models in chromatography. Cleared cell harvest is particularly difficult feedstock for mechanistic models to simulate. A lack of specimen complex and time to establish all of the desirable criteria is also a big hindrance in the way. Therefore, the research's purpose was to build a process that initiates with complicated feedstock including monoclonal antibodies and uses an automated liquid handling system. It was put to the test by comparing separate data sets with estimates produced by the mechanical typical employing all parameters determined in this work. The method was backed up by a near-perfect match between predicted and actual results. The 200 L bed volume of Robo Columns may therefore be effectively used to regulate isotherm parameters for bigger scale column predictions. Mechanistic chromatographic modelling of complex biological feedstocks can benefit greatly from this approach since it provides a new way of finding crucial model input parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancing our predictive understanding of bioenergy systems is critical to design decision tools that can inform which feedstock to plant, where to plant it, and how to manage its production to provide both energy and ecosystem carbon (C) benefits. Here, we lay the foundation for that advancement by integrating recent developments in the science of belowground processes in shaping the C cycle into a new bioenergy model, FUN‐BioCROP (Fixation and Uptake of Nitrogen‐Bioenergy Carbon, Rhizosphere, Organisms, and Protection). We show that FUN‐BioCROP can approximate the historical trajectory of soil C dynamics as natural ecosystems were successively converted into intensive agriculture and bioenergy systems. This ability relies in part on a novel tillage representation that mechanistically models tillage as a process that increases microbial access to C. Importantly, the impacts of tillage and feedstock choice also influence FUN‐BioCROP simulations of warming responses with no‐till perennial feedstocks, miscanthus, and switchgrass, having more C that is unprotected and susceptible to warming than tilled annual feedstocks like corn–corn–soybean. However, this susceptibility to warming is balanced by a greater potential for increases in belowground C allocation to enhance soil C stocks in perennial systems. Collectively, our model results highlight the importance of belowground processes in evaluating the ecosystem C benefits of bioenergy production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodiesel is a sustainable alternative to petroleum diesel. The main bottlenecks in the commercialization of biodiesel are production costs and suitable industrial techniques to process feedstocks. This can be solved by one-pot extraction-transesterification of cheap, low-quality feedstocks. Here we review one-pot extraction-transesterification using agricultural seed crops, oleaginous microbial biomass and biological refuse, with focus on catalysis. Catalysts such as acetyl chloride, sodium hydroxide, sulphonated rice husk and calcium oxide have shown to be efficient with conversion in the range of 95–100%. We present intensification techniques such as microwave irradiation, ultrasonication, coupled microwave and ultrasound, thermally assisted and solvothermal processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

L-valine is an essential amino acid that has wide and expanding applications with a suspected growing market demand. Its applicability ranges from animal feed additive, ingredient in cosmetic and special nutrients in pharmaceutical and agriculture fields. Currently, fermentation with the aid of model organisms, is a major method for the production of L-valine. However, achieving the optimal production has often been limited because of the metabolic imbalance in recombinant strains. In this review, the constrains in L-valine biosynthesis are discussed first. Then, we summarize the current advances in engineering of microbial cell factories that have been developed to address and overcome major challenges in the L-valine production process. Future prospects for enhancing the current L-valine production strategies are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of biochars in soils has been generating excitement within the scientific community due to its benefits in both agronomic and environmental areas. The current challenge is to select suitable raw materials and preparation procedures to obtain biochars with appropriate properties for specific purposes. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize the properties of biochars derived from twenty different types of organic waste and correlate these properties with their potential agronomic and/or environmental use. Twenty types of raw materials available in the Brazilian Amazon were placed in closed porcelain crucibles and subjected to pyrolysis in a muffle furnace set at 350 °C for 2 h. Chemical, physicochemical, and spectroscopic analyses were conducted on the produced biochars. As a result, biochars derived from poultry litter, annatto seed, passion fruit peel, and coffee husk are suitable for improving the fertility of nutrient-deficient soils thanks to their high ash and nutrient contents, elevated pH, and low C/N ratios. Biochars derived from sugarcane bagasse and wood residues were characterized by their high carbon content and aromaticity, making them difficult to mineralize in soil. Consequently, these biochars show promise for environmental use, with the potential to sequester C and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. [Display omitted] • Biochar properties can identify the research needs and direct future trials. • Biochars produced in the Amazon can improve the fertility of nutrient-deficient soils. • Biochars derived from nutrient-rich biomass can enhance soil fertility. • Biomasses with a high C/N ratio generate biochars capable of sequestering carbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar has been widely applied for the remediation of petroleum-contaminated soil. However, the effect of biochar on the transport of petroleum degradation bacteria has not been studied. A typical Gram-positive petroleum degradation bacteria- Corynebacterium variabile HRJ4 was used to study the effect of different biochars on bacterial transport and retention. Results indicated that the addition of biochar in sand was effective for reducing the transport of bacteria and poplar sawdust biochar (PSBC) had a stronger hinder effect than corn straw biochar (CSBC). The hindrance was more evident with pyrolysis temperature of biochar raised from 300°C to 600°C, which was attributed to the increase of specific surface area (309 times). The hindrance effect also enhanced with higher application rate of biochar. Furthermore, the reduction of HRJ4 transport was more obvious in higher (25 mmol/L) concentration of NaCl solution owing to electrostatic attraction enhancement. The adsorption of biochar to HRJ4 was defined to contribute to the hindrance of HRJ4 transport mainly. Combining the influence of feedstocks and pyrolysis temperature on HRJ4 transport, it suggested that specific surface area had the greatest effect on HRJ4 transport, and pore-filling, electrostatic force also contributed to HRJ4 retained in quartz sand column. At last, phenol transportation experiment indicated that the restriction of biochar on HRJ4 enhanced the phenol removal rate in the column. This study provides a theoretical basis for the interaction of biochar and bacteria, which is vital for the remediation of oil-contaminated soil and groundwater in the field. Graphical Abstract Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a simple and robust procedure for the Rh(III)-catalyzed [4+2] cycloaddition of feedstock gases enabled through C–H activation. A diverse set of 3,4-dihydroisoquinolones and 3-methylisoquinolones have been prepared in good to excellent yields. The effects of using ethylene and propyne as coupling partners on C–H site selectivity have also been explored with a representative set of substrates and are discussed herein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A biorefinery purchasing feedstock (perennial grass) must offer contracts that provide the same opportunity to earn a profit for a feedstock contractor located 50 or 5 km from the biorefinery. The business plan presented here specifies that the biomass is purchased in satellite storage locations (SSLs), and the load-out and hauling costs are paid by the biorefinery. Contracts can be offered for harvest in September, October, and November, a three-month harvest window, or the harvest window can be extended to December, January, and February, a six-month harvest window. Required total storage capacity is 75% of annual consumption for the three-month window and 50% for the six-month window, a significant difference in total storage capacity (cost). The storage cost difference paid by the biorefinery is 5.27 and 3.52 USD/Mg for the three-month and six-month, respectively. Several issues must be addressed in the feedstock contracts: (1) earlier harvest, before plant senescence, means less nutrients are translocated back into the soil and more are removed at harvest; (2) harvest losses are higher for all harvests after the September harvest; and (3) storage losses increase with storage time in the SSL. Time of removal from the SSL is dictated by the biorefinery; thus, the feedstock contractor must be compensated. The contracts paid by the biorefinery, averaged across the entire annual consumption, were about the same for the three-month window, and six-month window. This result was obtained because fertilizer cost decreases and harvest losses increase as the harvest date increases; thus, the two factors tend to offset. Using a 77 USD/Mg base cost, representative feedstock payment at the SSL (no storage losses included) for contractors with various month contracts are September (84.30), October (85.54), November (86.72), December 88.63), January (89.98), and February (90.58). Subsequent compensation for storage losses depends on the amount of time the particular unit of biomass is in storage before shipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesta crop biomass is one of the unexplored lignocellulosic feedstocks for second-generation bioethanol production. The compositional analysis of two mesta species, namely Hibiscus sabdariffa and H. cannabinus were carried out which revealed that the mesta contains 41.89–46.50% cellulose that can be saccharified to release fermentative sugar. Among different physical and physico-chemical pretreatment methods employed, cold alkali (2%) treatment showed maximum cellulose enrichment (38.71%) and significant lignin removal (27.27% of total). Optimization of saccharification process for pretreated mesta biomass was carried out using Box–Behnken design. Based on the observations, use of 4.02% substrate loading, 15.02 FPU/mL of cellulase from psychrotolerant Aspergillus niger SH3, and 5.01 IU/gds of β-glucosidase from Pseudomonas lutea BG8, led to 533.25 mg/gds sugar release from the pretreated biomass. Simultaneous saccharification and fermentation was carried out using efficient thermotolerant yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae LN that resulted in 4.1 g/L ethanol production. It can be concluded that mesta crop can be a good source for the production of second-generation biofuel and the ethanol yield can be further improved by use of accessory enzymes and co-fermenting yeast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is a review of the scientific literature published in 2019 on topics relating to bioenergy from biofuel residues and waste. This literature review is divided into the following sections: Feedstocks, Biodiesel, Bioethanol, Hydrogen, Biohydrogen, Biofuel Residues, Microalgae, and Lignocelluloses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioenergy is expected to play a critical role in climate change mitigation. Most integrated assessment models assume an expansion of agricultural land for cultivation of energy crops. This study examines the suitability of land for growing a range of energy crops on areas that are not required for food production, accounting for climate change impacts and conservation requirements. A global fuzzy logic model is employed to ascertain the suitable cropping areas for a number of sugar, starch and oil crops, energy grasses and short rotation tree species that could be grown specifically for energy. Two climate change scenarios are modelled (RCP2.6 and RCP8.5), along with two scenarios representing the land which cannot be used for energy crops due to forest and biodiversity conservation, food agriculture and urban areas. Results indicate that 40% of the global area currently suitable for energy crops overlaps with food land and 31% overlaps with forested or protected areas, highlighting hotspots of potential land competition risks. Approximately 18.8 million km2 is suitable for energy crops, to some degree, and does not overlap with protected, forested, urban or food agricultural land. Under the climate change scenario RCP8.5, this increases to 19.6 million km2 by the end of the century. Broadly, climate change is projected to decrease suitable areas in southern regions and increase them in northern regions, most notably for grass crops in Russia and China, indicating that potential production areas will shift northwards which could potentially affect domestic use and trade of biomass significantly. The majority of the land which becomes suitable is in current grasslands and is just marginally or moderately suitable. This study therefore highlights the vital importance of further studies examining the carbon and ecosystem balance of this potential land-use change, energy crop yields in sub-optimal soil and climatic conditions and potential impacts on livelihoods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the two years that have passed since the first volume of "Advances in Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production" was published, the progress in PHA-related research was indeed tremendous, calling for the next, highly bioprocess- and bioengineering-oriented volume. This editorial paper summarizes and puts into context the contributions to this second volume of the Bioengineering Special Issue; it covers highly topical fields of PHA-related R&D activities, covering, beside the pronounced bioengineering-related articles, the fields of the microbiology of underexplored, but probably emerging, PHA production strains from the groups of Pseudomonas, cyanobacteria, methanotrophs, and from the extremophilic domain of haloarchaea. Moreover, novel second-generation lignocellulose feedstocks for PHA production from agriculture to be used in biorefinery concepts, new approaches for fine-tuning the composition of PHA co- and terpolyesters, process simulation for PHA production from methane-rich natural gas, the challenges associated with rheology-governed oxygen transfer in high cell density cultivations, rapid spectroscopic in-line analytics for process monitoring, and the biomedical application of PHA biopolyesters after appropriate advanced processing are the subjects of the presented studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global sugar industry has stagnated due to oversupply of the markets with conventional sugar products. Shifting from sugar-only production to co-production of other valuable products, through the integration of biorefineries into existing sugar mills, may open new revenue streams and investment opportunities. The economic feasibilities of various biorefinery scenarios for the production of 1,3-butadiene, by annexation to an existing sugar mill, were investigated. Pathways using either 2,3-butanediol or ethanol as intermediate product were compared, using A-molasses (first-generation), and sugarcane bagasse and brown leaves (second-generation) as feedstocks. The processes were simulated from literature data using Aspen Plus® software for subsequent techno-economic and sensitivity analyses. Producing 1,3-butadiene via the 2,3-butanediol pathway proved to have more attractive economics, with minimum selling prices of 4.08 $/kg and 4.55 $/kg for first-generation-only and integrated/combined first- and second-generation feedstocks, respectively, compared to the ethanol pathway at 5.71 $/kg and 5.72 $/kg. This was mainly attributed to low catalytic performance and higher capital costs associated with the ethanol-to-butadiene catalytic conversion. The investigated scenarios were unprofitable compared to a market price of 1.05 $/kg for fossil-derived 1,3-butadiene, requiring substantial price premiums for bio-based 1,3-butadiene. Instead, the sole production of bio-based 2,3-butanediol as final biorefinery product was deemed to be more viable for investment. • Four 1,3-butadiene sugarcane mill annexed biorefinery scenarios were developed. • 1,3-butadiene production using ethanol or 2,3-butanediol intermediates was compared. • 2,3-butanediol pathway more cost-effective than ethanol pathway. • Catalytic upgrading of intermediates critical to economic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • PHAs are biopolymers able to replace conventional plastics in different applications; • PHAs face challenges due to production costs and lack of public policies; • PHAs production in biorefineries may reduce costs and integrate processes; • Biopolymers and biorefineries success depend on proper incentives and investments; • Biorefinery and genetic engineering strategies can enhance PHA productivity. The need for a sustainable and circular bioeconomy model is imperative due to petroleum non-renewability, scarcity and environmental impacts. Biorefineries systems explore biomass to its maximum, being an important pillar for the development of circular bioeconomy. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) can take advantage of biorefineries, as they can be produced using renewable feedstocks, and are potential substitutes for petrochemical plastics. The present work aims to evaluate the current status of the industrial development of PHAs production in biorefineries and PHAs contributions to the bioeconomy, along with future development points. Advancements are noticed when PHA production is coupled in wastewater treatment systems, when residues are used as substrate, and also when analytical methodologies are applied to evaluate the production process, such as the Life Cycle and Techno-Economic Analysis. For the commercial success of PHAs, it is established the need for dedicated investment and policies, in addition to proper collaboration of different society actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This section presents a review of the scientific literature published in 2018 on topics relating to sustainable bioenergy from biofuel residues and waste. This review is divided into the following sections: Feedstocks, Bioethanol, Biodiesel, Biohydrogen, Hydrogen, Biofuel Residues, Microalgae, and Lignocelluloses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochars produced from different feedstocks via pyrolytic carbonization and ultraviolet (UV) modification were used as alternative adsorbents for aqueous hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) remediation. Structural and morphological analysis showed that UV irradiation increased the surface area of biochar and added a large amount of oxygen-containing functional groups on the biochar's surface, resulting in about 2-5 times increase of Cr(VI) removing capacity (14.39-- 20.04 mg/g) compared to that of unmodified biochars (3.60-8.43 mg/g). The sorption ability among different feedstocks after modification was as follows: corn stack >sawdust >wheat straw. The adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherm data agreed well with the pseudo-second-order model and Freundlich model, respectively. Experimental and modeling results suggested that the oxygen-containing functional groups and surface areas of biochars were notably increased after UV irradiation, which was mainly governed by surface complexation. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis showed that reduction occurred during Cr(VI) adsorption. In addition, UV irradiation significantly increased the concentration of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in biochars. The collected outcomes showed that UV-modified biochar was a good material for the removal of hexavalent chromium from aqueous medium. The excellent adsorption capacity, environmentalfriendly and low cost properties made the novel material an auspicious candidate for environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Powder injection molding is like the process of plastics injection molding capable of the mass production of highly functional complex 3D parts, just in ceramics and metals. The market for products made by powder injection molding is constantly growing. With this growth, the need for reliable process simulations arises. Simulation tools are widely used in the development of new products and are applied in powder and polymer injection molding to support the product design, shorten the development time, avoid errors, and help to optimize the mold and process design. However, material data for feedstocks and thus simulations of the powder injection molding process are hardly available yet. The present work introduces the necessary material data for establishing a material model for simulations. An extensive material characterization of ceramic feedstocks was conducted. The material investigations comprised the determination of basic, thermal, and rheological material properties to collect a comprehensive data set. The necessary measurements and tools are outlined and their results are discussed in detail with regard to powder content and in comparison to pure plastics. The gained data enabled to successfully create a material model for mold filling simulations. Powder injection molding experiments were carried out with a spiral test geometry. The mold was equipped with a sensor array for the process monitoring during injection. Furthermore, a simulation model of the test geometry was established. Finally, the results of the experiments and simulations are discussed and are compared to validate the performance of the simulations. The results showed the potential and limitations of process simulations and standard software applied in conventional and micro powder injection molding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a review of work on the potential of biorefineries. First, it considers the concept of a refinery, the differences between biomass and oil, and the advantages of a biorefinery over a refinery. It goes on to describe the bio‐based economy and biorefinery concepts, and to discuss its origin as a promising alternative to dependence on non‐renewable feedstocks. It provides an exhaustive description of the classification of biorefineries, considering aspects such as systems, technological implementation status, size, feedstocks, platforms, products, and conversion processes. It outlines the main methodologies for designing biorefineries – conceptual design, optimization, and the 'early stage' method. Methodologies for the economic, environmental, and social assessment of a biorefinery are presented. Finally, challenges linked to the implementation of biorefinery projects at industrial level are discussed. The authors conclude that the methodologies of conceptual design and optimization must complement each other to achieve a robust design from a conceptual and mathematical point of view. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic improvement through breeding is one of the key approaches to increasing biomass supply. This paper documents the breeding progress to date for four perennial biomass crops (PBCs) that have high output–input energy ratios: namely Panicum virgatum (switchgrass), species of the genera Miscanthus (miscanthus), Salix (willow) and Populus (poplar). For each crop, we report on the size of germplasm collections, the efforts to date to phenotype and genotype, the diversity available for breeding and on the scale of breeding work as indicated by number of attempted crosses. We also report on the development of faster and more precise breeding using molecular breeding techniques. Poplar is the model tree for genetic studies and is furthest ahead in terms of biological knowledge and genetic resources. Linkage maps, transgenesis and genome editing methods are now being used in commercially focused poplar breeding. These are in development in switchgrass, miscanthus and willow generating large genetic and phenotypic data sets requiring concomitant efforts in informatics to create summaries that can be accessed and used by practical breeders. Cultivars of switchgrass and miscanthus can be seed‐based synthetic populations, semihybrids or clones. Willow and poplar cultivars are commercially deployed as clones. At local and regional level, the most advanced cultivars in each crop are at technology readiness levels which could be scaled to planting rates of thousands of hectares per year in about 5 years with existing commercial developers. Investment in further development of better cultivars is subject to current market failure and the long breeding cycles. We conclude that sustained public investment in breeding plays a key role in delivering future mass‐scale deployment of PBCs. Plant breeding links the research effort with commercial mass upscaling. The authors' assessment of development status of the four species is shown (poplar having two: one for short rotation coppice (SRC) poplar and one for the more traditional short rotation forestry (SRF)). Mass scale deployment needs developments outside the breeding arenas to drive breeding activities more rapidly and extensively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The research of RCF was reviewed through the aspects of feedstocks, catalysts, solvents, and carbohydrate retention. • Different feedstocks directly lead to significant differences in monomer yield and selectivity. • Different factors affecting heterogeneous catalysts have a great influence on the RCF results • The solvent properties has a significant impact on the composition and distribution of RCF products. Reductive catalytic fractionation (RCF) of lignocellulose based on lignin first is an emerging biorefinery strategy that combines biomass fractionation with lignin depolymerization to obtain low-Mw lignocellulosic oils (monomers and low molecular weight oligomers) and hydrocarbon pulp. Both product streams are considered valuable resources for the biochemical-based industry. In this work, the recent research progress of RCF was reviewed through the aspects of feedstocks, catalysts, solvents, and carbohydrate retention. Different feedstocks with different structures of lignin units (S, G, H units) and the distribution of C O bonds directly lead to a significant difference in the yield and selectivity of the monomers. For catalysts, homogeneous catalysts have better contact with the lignocellulose, but the monomer yield of homogeneous catalysts alone is not substantial as compared to the heterogenous catalysts. Different metal elements, particle sizes, doped heteroatoms, and carrier pairings in heterogenous catalysts significantly have an impact on the RCF results. Currently, to obtain monophenol yields close to theoretical yields, high delignification, and high carbohydrate retention, many studies use a combination of homogeneous and heterogenous catalysts for RCF of lignocellulose. The solvent is also an essential factor as the solvent properties directly affect the efficiency of RCF and also has a significant impact on the composition and distribution of RCF products. This paper summarizes, discuss, and propose solutions for the challenges encountered during the RCF strategies based on the major factors mentioned above. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agro-industrial transformation chains generate huge amounts of by-products which can be used as biomass for anaerobic digestion (AD) process, by avoiding their disposal in landfill and therefore environmental issues. This study has investigated a biomass mix to increase biogas production optimizing AD process parameters with the aim of enhancing AD performance in terms of produced biogas quality. In detail, both Biochemical Methane Potential (BMP) and AD approaches were adopted for investigating the effect of mixing seven Mediterranean feedstocks (i.e., olive pomace, citrus pulp, poultry and cattle manure, whey, tomato peels, and cereal straw) on methane production for bioenergy generation. The BMP test demonstrated that the tested mix had potential to be used for biogas production with 60.9% of methane content in the produced biogas. In detail, the specific production was equal to 343.1 Nm3CH 4 /tVS, confirmed by the results obtained during the AD test, about 333 Nm3CH 4 /tVS. As result, the tested mix demonstrated good net energy outputs and provide a flexible and useful solution to generate bioenergy from by-products. These findings confirm the possibility of using these by-products as energy sources and initiating virtuous bioeconomy processes for the sustainable utilization of renewable natural resources, transforming waste-to-resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CH and PH raised CH 4 emissions, whereas EH reduced CH 4 emissions. • CH and PH can provide more phenols-like to microorganisms. • The abundance of genus belonging to methanogens reduced after applying EH. • The competing archaea Candidatus_Nitrososphaera enriched in EH. Despite the increasing attention given to hydrochar as a soil improver, its impact on methane emissions in paddy soil remains unclear, particularly with regard to the use of hydrochar derived from different feedstocks. In this study, four types of hydrochar (rice straw, corn straw, poplar wood, and enteromorpha) were added to paddy soil. The addition of rice straw hydrochar had no significant effect on meathane emissions. However, corn straw and poplar wood hydrochar increased methane emissions by 17.78% and 18.68% respectively. In contrast, enteromorpha hydrochar reduced methane emissions by about 20.21%. These variations were attributed to differences in organic matter released by the hydrochar, influencing microbial community composition and activity. The inhibitory effect of Enteromorpha hydrochar on methane production are closely related to its high ash content and enrichment of Candidatus_Nitrososphaera , Acinetobacter , Flavobacterium , and Rhodoplanes , associated with nitrification and denitrification. On the other hand, corn straw and poplar wood hydrochar promoted methane production through the enrichment of Geobacte r, Anaerolinea , and Anaeromyxobacter, probably facilitating direct interspecies electron transfer with Methanosarcina. These findings underscore the significance of evaluating various hydrochar feedstocks for effective management of methane emissions in paddy soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This section presents a review of the scientific literature published in 2017 on topics relating to sustainable bioenergy from biofuel residues and waste. This review is divided into the following sections: Feedstocks, Bioethanol, Biodiesel, Biohydrogen, Hydrogen, Biofuel Residues, Microalgae, Lignocelluloses and other topics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Worldwide production capacities of carbon‐based chemicals and associated products are steadily increasing. At the same time the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide is of paramount importance in order to mitigate the anthropogenic impact of climate change. In Carbon2Chem® a cross industrial network develops concepts towards the utilization of steel mill gases for the sustainable production of “green” base chemicals, including methanol. This Review describes the technological challenges emerging from the use of these alternative feedstocks, specifically in the context of methanol production processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oxidation of biochar in the natural environment has been widely observed. However, its influence on the sorption of hydrophobic organic compounds (HOCs) by biochars, especially biochars with high contents of minerals, remains poorly understood. In this study, sorption of phenanthrene (PHE) by grass straw-based biochars (GRABs) and animal waste-based biochars (ANIBs) produced at 450 °C before and after oxidation with HNO 3 was investigated. The biochar samples were characterized using elemental analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, 13 C nuclear magnetic resonance, and CO 2 adsorption. Characterization results demonstrate that HNO 3 treatment of biochars caused O enrichment, loss of alkyl C, and rise of aromaticity. The organic C-normalized surface area (CO 2 -SA/OC) of both GRABs and ANIBs generally increased after oxidation. The sorption nonlinearity of PHE by the biochars was weakened after HNO 3 treatment. The sorption capacity of PHE by oxidized GRABs was consistently elevated compared with the untreated samples, indicating that the high sorption capacity of PHE by GRABs may be maintained for a long time after being added into soils. By contrast, PHE sorption by ANIBs was unchanged or attenuated after oxidation. Polar groups facilitated the sorption of PHE by GRABs, while inhibited that by ANIBs. Pore-filling and π-π electron donor-acceptor interactions regulated PHE sorption by GRABs. Our results imply that GRABs are promising sorbents for environmental applications in view of their long-lasting sorption capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review includes works published in the general scientific literature during 2016 on the production of bioenergy and biofuel from waste residues generated during bioethanol and biodiesel production with a brief overview of current and emerging feedstocks. A section of this review summarizes literature on culturing algae for biofuels including bioreactors and open pond cultivation systems with the utilization of inorganic and organic sources of nutrients. New methods applicable to the mass culture of algae are highlighted. Algal cell harvesting and oil extraction techniques are discussed along with policies and economics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable production of microbial polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biopolyesters on a larger scale has to consider the “ four magic e ”: e conomic , e thical, e nvironmental , and e ngineering aspects. Moreover, sustainability of PHA production can be quantified by modern tools of Life Cycle Assessment. Economic issues are to a large extent affected by the applied production mode, downstream processing, and, most of all, by the selection of carbon-rich raw materials as feedstocks for PHA production by safe and naturally occurring wild type microorganisms. In order to comply with ethics, such raw materials should be used which do not interfere with human nutrition and animal feed supply chains, and shall be convertible towards accessible carbon feedstocks by simple methods of upstream processing. Examples were identified in carbon-rich waste materials from various industrial braches closely connected to food production. Therefore, the article shines a light on hetero-, mixo-, and autotrophic PHA production based on various industrial residues from different branches. Emphasis is devoted to the integration of PHA-production based on selected raw materials into the holistic patterns of sustainability; this encompasses the choice of new, powerful microbial production strains, non-hazardous, environmentally benign methods for PHA recovery, and reutilization of waste streams from the PHA production process itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on collection of data on nutrient flow and biogas yield at a commercial anaerobic digester managed with dairy manure from a 1000 cow dairy and co-digestion of additional feedstocks. Feedstocks included: blood, fish, paper pulp, out of date beverages and grease trap waste. Mass flow of inputs and outputs, nutrient concentration of inputs and outputs, and biogas yield were obtained. It was determined that manure was the primary source of nutrients to the anaerobic digester when co-digested with feedstocks. The percentage of contribution from manure to the total nutrient inputs for total nitrogen, ammonia-nitrogen, phosphorus and total solids was 46.3%, 67.7%, 32.8% and 23.4%, respectively. On average, manure contributed the greatest amount of total nitrogen and ammonia-nitrogen. Grease trap waste contributed the greatest amount of phosphorus and total solids at approximately 50%. Results demonstrated that a reliable estimate of nutrient inflow could be obtained from the product of the nutrient analyses of a single daily composite of influent subsamples times the total daily flow estimated with an in-line flow meter. This approach to estimate total daily nutrient inflow would be more cost effective than testing and summing the contribution of individual feedstocks. Data collected after liquid-solid separation confirmed that the majority (>75%) of nutrients remain with the liquid effluent portion of the manure stream. It was demonstrated that the ash concentration in solids before and after composting could be used to estimate the mass balance of total solids during the compost process. This data confirms that biogas or methane yield could be accurately measured from the ratio of % volatile solids to % total solids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Methanol is a significant intermediate used in a range of applications and feedstocks. • Microchannel reactor has a high surface-to-volume ratio, which greatly enhances the heat and mass transfer. • The methane-reforming process in microchannels with application in the methanol synthesis process has been investigated. Methanol as a simple hydrocarbon containing oxygen is one of the most consumed gas chemicals all around the world. It is a versatile fuel that can be used in fuel cells such as direct methanol fuel cells and downstream proton exchange membrane fuel cells, combustion engines, or even as on-board hydrogen storage. In the chemical industry, methanol is also a vital intermediate employed in a variety of applications and feedstocks. The production of heat upon the synthesis of methanol enhances the temperature of the reactor, lowers the conversion rate, and hastens the deactivation of the catalyst. More isothermal process conditions can be achieved by using microchannel reactors in the methanol synthesis. Because of the small channel's dimensions, the reactor has a high surface-to-volume ratio, which greatly enhances the heat and mass transfer. The rapid heat and mass transfer of substances caused by diffusion in small lateral dimensions results in narrower residence-time distribution in the reactor for gas-phase reactions. The purpose of this work is to investigate the methane-reforming process in microchannels with application in the methanol synthesis process in recent years. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vermicomposting is increasingly used to recycle organic wastes into highly-valued fertilizer. It is still unclear whether, and how, the feedstocks of vermicomposts affect soil N 2 O emissions. Thus, this study investigated the responses and relevant mechanisms of soil N 2 O emissions to the amendment of vermicomposts derived from the civil sludge and the cattle dung, using gas chromatography and microbial gene analysis. Compared to the cattle dung vermicompost, the civil sludge vermicompost increased soil N 2 O emission on an average of 14.5 times. This difference did not disappear when the concentrations of mineral N (NH 4 + and NO 3 −) and metals (Zn and Fe) was adjusted to the same levels. This result indicated that the variations in mineral N and metal concentrations did not account for the difference in soil N 2 O emission between these two vermicomposts. The relative abundance of nirK -type denitrifying bacteria and the nirK gene expression were significantly higher in soil amended with the civil sludge vermicompost than those with the cattle dung vermicompost, suggesting that the promotion of nirK gene expression and the inhibition of N 2 O reduction potentially explained the higher N 2 O emissions under the civil sludge vermicompost amendment compared to the cattle dung vermicompost amendment. Controlling the nirK -type denitrifying bacteria and nirK gene expression at low levels and promoting N 2 O reduction will reduce soil N 2 O emission from vermicomposts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • HEFA is a well-established technology for biofuel production. • Lignocellulose feedstocks are superior for bio jet production. • Second-generation biofuels are economic and environmentally friendly. • FT techniques has highest GHGs saving technique but higher capital cost. Given how quickly the aviation sector is growing, it is crucial to find sustainable ways to supply the demand. Modern technological developments and the creation of alternative jet fuels are crucial elements that could help eliminate greenhouse gases (GHGs) like CO 2 emissions. Traditional jet fuel produces a sizable amount of GHG emissions, which has raised concern on a global scale. Compared to conventional jet fuel, biofuel is thought to be more renewable and less polluting. Biojet fuels might work as an effective substitute. The varieties of bio jet fuel, manufacturing procedures (including alcohol-to-jet, oil-to-jet, syngas-to-jet, and sugar-to-jet ways), existing regulations, and the effects of bio jet fuels on the environment and the economy are all covered in length in this overview. These are the techniques that are most frequently used to create bio-jet fuel from both edible and inedible feedstock. The main conclusions of this review indicate that the most popular method for producing biofuel is hydrogenated esters and fatty acids (HEFA). The Fischer-Tropsch (FT) approaches cost more to install even though they produce fewer GHGs. Environmentally beneficial and technologically advanced, second-generation biofuels are a great choice. It has been revealed that jatropha is a crop that produces a lot of energy. The price of feedstock and the lack of bio-jet fuel are the two biggest obstacles to substituting conventional fuel. To increase the power and quality of energy, further in-depth research on optimal feedstocks is necessary. In order to address the needs of both commercial and military aircraft, biomass jet fuel has a lot of potential to replace conventional jet fuel. High yield should be one of the properties of the feedstock without affecting food production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodiesel is an alternative and renewable fuel which majorly addresses energy problems. Worldwide energy security will remain vulnerable until dependency on fossil fuels is reduced, due to its uneven distribution, and carbon footprints. Biofuels in general and the biodiesel in particular, are good alternatives to produce renewable energy as compared to the fossil fuels. The biodiesel production from inedible bioresources not only reduce import dependency but also be effective in rural developments. Biodiesel from such feedstocks via biotransesterification would provide a better solution to 'Blending Program' in developing countries where contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by primary sector (agriculture) is significant. Biodiesel production utilises lipases (triacylglycerol hydrolases) as biocatalyst for transesterification. This review paper provides global scenario of biodiesel production along with types of renewable feedstocks and their productivities. It also describes various processes and their operations to produce biodiesel using lipases derived from diverse microbes. This paper presents critical review on the processes, operational parameters, techniques, and overall methodology for biodiesel production to not only improve yields and productivities but also the quality to bring sustainability. Use of biodiesel for industrial and economic activities in developing countries, is also an effective way to reduce carbon emission and hence global warming. Overall, this review paper is a comprehensive summary with critical analysis for biodiesel production technologies developed including stable enzymes, inedible renewable feedstocks, reactor and their operational conditions to produce quality biodiesel using novel integrated processing technologies and downstream processing developed in the recent research. Economic analysis is very important for sustainable biodiesel production. Optimized process design necessary to bring process and techno-economic sustainability is presented in this review based on feedstocks, solvents and catalysts used. [Display omitted] • Biotransesterification to produce quality biodiesel. • Inedible renewable feedstocks and their utilization in global and Indian scenario. • Optimum parameters for biotransesterification production using free and immobilised lipase. • Reactor configurations supporting biotransesterification. • Biofuel sustainability using biodiesel with desired quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review includes works published in the general scientific literature during 2015 on the production of bioenergy and biofuel from waste residues generated during bioethanol and biodiesel production with a brief overview of current and emerging feedstocks. A section of this review summarizes literature on culturing algae for biofuels including bioreactors and open pond cultivation systems with the utilization of inorganic and organic sources of nutrients. New methods applicable to the mass culture of algae are highlighted. Algal cell harvesting and oil extraction techniques tested and developed for algae discussed alongwith policies and economics are also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alfalfa ( Medicago sativa L.) is a potential candidate for cellulosic ethanol production due to its high biomass, perennial-habit, relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, and other co-products. We examined the effects of harvest regime, irrigation, and salinity on stem lignocellulose concentrations in alfalfa during the 2010 and 2011 growing seasons in Southern Minnesota. Stem cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin concentrations, and theoretical ethanol yields were examined in eight alfalfa cultivars with full-bud and 50%-flower harvest regimes, irrigation, and salinity as applied treatments. Plants received weekly applications of (1) 1.27 cm of well water (“fresh water;” 0.75 dS m −1 ), (2) 1.27 cm of saline water (NaCl; “brackish water”; 5.0 dS m −1 ) or (3) ambient precipitation (“rainfed”). Holocellulose concentrations reached the highest values during the full bud (2010) and 50% flower (2011) harvest regimes with concentrations averaging 45%. Theoretical ethanol yields were generally higher for the 50%-flower harvest regime, suggesting the longer growth period increased holocellulose concentrations while not being hindered by more lignin in older stems. Alfalfa growing under brackish-water treatments had 1.3–6.1% more holocellulose than those receiving irrigation or ambient precipitation over two growing seasons. Lignin concentrations across all treatments were almost 23% lower during the second growing season. Interestingly, plants growing under brackish-water treatments had higher holocellulose to lignin ratios and higher theoretical ethanol yields during both field seasons suggesting that moderate levels of salt may stimulate holocellulose concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to provide a broad review and assessment of the feedstocks and applicable biogas technologies that are feasible in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Biodigesters and feedstocks available in SSA were identified according to scale and application – household, community, institutional, and commercial. Aside from livestock manure, suitable feedstocks for household, community, and institutional biodigesters include crop residues, night soil/domestic sewage, and the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW). Significant untapped feedstocks exist from SSA agro-processing and food production industries. Biodigesters available in SSA for household, community, and institutional installations include variations of fixed dome, plug flow, and floating cover digesters. Commercial digester designs applicable to the region include continuously stirred tank reactors and fixed film digesters. The key factors that need to be considered in selecting suitable biodigester designs for specific applications include: feedstock availability, water supply, energy demand, local materials and labour, and the level of commitment to operate and maintain the biodigester effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews the most recent work conducted by scientists and engineers of the Forest Service of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) in the areas of forest operations and woody biomass logistics, with an emphasis on feedstock supply for emerging bioenergy, biofuels, and bioproducts applications. This work is presented in the context of previous research in this field by the agency and is measured against the goals and objectives provided by several important national-level initiatives, including the USDA Regional Biomass Research Centers. Research conducted over the past 5 years in cooperation with a diverse group of research partners is organized in four topic sections: innovative practices, innovative machines, sustainability, and integration. A wide range of studies in operations and logistics address advances in harvest and processing technology, transportation systems, scheduling and planning, feedstock quality, biomass conversion processes, and environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions. We also discuss potential future research to address persistent knowledge gaps, especially those in fire and fuel management. Overall, the research reviewed here aligns well with broad national goals of providing the USA with sustainable and efficient forest biomass management and production systems, specifically including: (1) improved harvest, collection, handling, and transportation systems for woody biomass; (2) cost and equipment information and options for field processing biomass to improve efficiency and mitigate impacts; and (3) forest biomass management systems and technologies to offset impacts and enhance environmental outcomes. However, as needs evolve, professionals in this field must strive to adapt research, development, and dissemination to address relevant future challenges and strengthen capabilities to solve critical problems in the forest sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochars (BCs) are widely produced and used for the remediation of environmental contaminants as biosorbents. In this review, statistical analysis of different BC physicoechemical properties was conducted. It was observed that woody materials are the most suitable for preparing BCs, among many other potential rawmaterials such as foodwastes and agricultural materials. Currently BCs are produced through a variety of thermal treatment processes between 300 and 900 °C, among which slow pyrolysis is widely used due to its moderate operating conditions and optimization of BC yields. Hydrothermal carbonisation (HTC) is also an effective approach for BC production under certain conditions. As pyrolysis temperature is increased, the carbon content, ash content, surface area, and pore volume tend to be increased while the yield, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen content, and H/C and O/C molar ratios tend to decrease. The economic feasibility of BCs depends on a range of factors from raw material price to efficient production technologies. Thus, the overall cost equation of a pilot BC production plant together with the cost equation for BC regeneration has been proposed. The future research directions of BCs are also elaborated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]