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The transition to biofuels as viable alternatives to fossil fuels is increasingly critical, given the rising demand for sustainable energy. However, biofuel production is hindered by challenges such as feedstock scarcity, elevated production costs, and environmental impacts. Nanotechnology has the potential to significantly improve the efficiency and durability of biofuel production processes, thereby overcoming these challenges. Although there has been significant research on using nanomaterials in biofuel production, there needs to be more emphasis on understanding and addressing the difficulties of integrating these materials and developing strategies to overcome them. This review systematically examines the role of nanotechnology in various biofuel production pathways, including biodiesel, biogas, bioethanol, biohydrogen, hydrotreated vegetable oils, and Fischer–Tropsch synthesis. We discuss how nanomaterials improve key aspects of biofuel production, such as catalysis, microbial conversion, biomass pretreatment, and separation. Despite these advancements, nanotechnology has challenges, including nanoparticle toxicity, increased operational costs, and technical limitations. We propose potential solutions to these issues, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative approaches. By effectively integrating nanotechnology into biofuel production, the energy sector can move toward a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar possesses unique characteristics, including a substantial surface area, a high carbon content, sufficient capacity for cation exchange, and a robust structure. However, biochar contains hazardous pollutants like volatile organic compounds that harm soil properties and functionality. Although several studies on biochar production from various feedstocks have been undertaken in recent years, several issues about feedstock preparation, economic feasibility, influencing factors, and the proper utilization of biochar production processes need to be addressed. This paper thus addresses these issues by providing potential solutions identified through a comprehensive review. Slow pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass and Acacia nilotica yields biochar from 20 to 52 wt% at various temperatures and residence times. Biochar yield varies from 29 to 48.3 wt% when waste tires and corn stalks are rapidly pyrolyzed at higher temperatures and for shorter periods. Torrefaction of algal biomass at moderate temperatures with different residence times can result in a substantial yield of 50–60 wt%. However, the variability and heterogeneity of waste feedstocks pose potential challenges affecting biochar's quality and properties. Given its widespread use in carbon sequestration, soil remediation, wastewater purification, and organic waste composting, the mechanisms of biochar production in environmental usage need to be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]