A framework for the design of sustainable multi-input second-generation biorefineries through process simulation: A case study for the valorization of lignocellulosic and starchy waste from the plantain agro-industry

Abstract

The plantain agro-industry generates different residues in the harvest and post-harvest stages. Therefore, new processes for its valorization are required. The aim of this research was to propose a general methodological framework for the design and analysis of multi-input biorefineries for the valorization of residues with a high content of lignocellulosic and starchy materials. This approach was based on the independent processing of the starchy and lignocellulosic materials in the first steps of the biorefinery and relies on process simulation and hierarchic process design procedures. A case study for the design of a multi-input biorefinery for the valorization of residues from the plantain agro-industry was performed by applying the framework proposed. The biorefinery was simulated using SuperPro Designer software. The results obtained suggest that the best alternative for the valorization of plantain residues under Colombian conditions corresponded to the following distribution of key residues: 100% leaf sheaths processed into the natural fiber production section, and 25% peels and 25% rachis processed into the starch extraction and liquefaction section; with this distribution, an NPV of $21,348,000 can be achieved. This work shows that waste from the plantain agro-industry exhibits high potential as a feedstock for the production of value-added products.