Predicting biomass gasification products for bubbling fluidised beds using high order polynomial regression with regularisation: a simple but highly effective strategy.

Enhancing biochar quality for the steel industry via Hydrothermal Pretreatment-Steam Explosion and pyrolysis.

Engineering carbon vacancies in porous carbon nitride to enhance photocatalytic selective CC bond cleavage in lignin models.

Data-driven modeling and optimization of Higher Heating Value in biomass feedstock for enhanced bioenergy production

Hydrogen-rich syngas production via sorption-enhanced steam reforming of biomass feedstocks using bifunctional materials: a critical review

Assessments of sustainable chemicals and bioenergy potentials of selected lignocellulosic biomass feedstocks in Poland via physicochemical characterisation and pyrolysis

Efficient conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into high-value chemicals remains challenging due to its complex structure. The selective production of levoglucosenone (LGO), a valuable bio-based building block derived from cellulose, has attracted increasing attention as part of efforts to establish sustainable chemical feedstocks. In this study, the continuous pyrolysis of woody biomass for LGO production was conducted using a fluidized-bed pyrolyzer, which is generally employed for bio-oil production but has not yet been tested for this reaction. Phytic acid (PA), a naturally occurring organic phosphorus compound abundant in agricultural residues, was employed as a biogenic catalyst and loaded over biomass. The pyrolysis characteristics were investigated in terms of LGO yield under various operating conditions of the fluidized-bed. Prior to PA loading, the removal of alkali and alkaline earth metals from feedstock biomass via oxalic acid-washing was examined to improve anhydrosugars yields. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed that PA loading lowered the temperature of biomass pyrolysis and increased char yield, confirming its catalysis toward dehydration. TGA of model compounds of biomass components indicated PA catalyzed only cellulose pyrolysis, while it did not affect that of hemicellulose and lignin. In the continuous pyrolysis experiments, the best conditions achieved an LGO yield of 6.3 wt% (17.1 wt% on a cellulose basis) at an average bed temperature of 300 °C. The results demonstrate, for the first time, that a biogenic phosphorus catalyst such as PA can effectively promote LGO formation under continuous fluidized-bed operation. The study also provides fundamental insights for key factors affecting the LGO yield during steady-state operation of the fluidized-bed, such as the thermal stability of LGO and its interaction with char.

The growing global demand for electrochemical energy storage is driven by decreasing costs of renewable electricity, supportive governmental policies promoting electrification, and the public’s desire to decrease CO2 emissions. Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, the leading form of energy storage for electric vehicles and the electrical grid, predominantly utilize anodes containing mineral and synthetic graphite. However, these materials originate from geographically constrained, nonrenewable resources and require energy-intensive, environmentally harmful extraction and purification processes. Our group explores an alternative by producing high-performance graphite from biomass feedstocks, including sawdust, seaweed, bio-oil, paper towel waste, and biochar. Using a one-step heat treatment (~1500°C) with an iron catalyst followed by acid purification, we have optimized the catalytic graphitization of diverse biomass materials. We have achieved graphitization rates >90% with Li-ion half-cell tests demonstrating a specific capacity ~360 mAh g-1, closely approaching the theoretical limit of 372 mAh g-1, with initial coulombic efficiencies exceeding 90%. Notably, this work introduces a novel application of electrowinning to establish a pathway for recycling the iron catalyst and acid used in the process through a flow cell system following acid purification, achieving an energy efficiency of approximately 3 kWh kg-1. This closed-loop approach has the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact and operational costs, making biomass-derived anode materials a more viable alternative for large-scale Li-ion battery manufacturing. This research presents a critical step toward greener and more efficient Li-ion batteries by addressing the need for sustainable feedstocks, minimizing resource dependence, and enhancing manufacturing circularity through catalyst and acid recycling.

Decarbonizing the electric grid requires the widespread adoption of renewable (wind/solar) power sources but the unpredictable and intermittent nature of renewable power motivates the development of flexible electrochemical manufacturing technologies that can shift power demand/supply across space-time and scales. We recently developed modular electrochemical synthesis (ModES) using redox reservoirs,which are battery materials that can store electrons and ions, to pair independent electrochemical half-reactions. Such ModES strategies can provide demand flexibility by participating in dynamic electricity markets at different timescales and significantly reduce the electricity cost of chemical manufacturing. Moreover, electrochemical recovery of ammonium (and other nutrient) ions from manure wastewater could be integrated with electrosynthesis using ion-selective redox reservoir materials. Such ModES strategies have further allowed us to integrate the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide with oxidation of biomass feedstocks and the recovery of ammonium from manure wastewater. These new strategies for flexibly integrating electrochemical manufacturing and environmental remediation with fluctuating power grid achieve more economical and sustainable operations to decarbonize electricity grid and chemical manufacturing.

This study examines the innovative advancements in electrocatalyst-based biomass conversion for sustainable chemical synthesis. We provide a comprehensive analysis of the design and performance optimization of advanced electrocatalytic systems engineered for the efficient transformation of diverse biomass feedstocks into high-value chemicals. A central theme is the expansion of electrocatalytic processes to facilitate the production of a broader array of valuable compounds. Our research focuses on the synthesis of economical and robust electrocatalysts, alongside the development of integrated technologies for high-value chemical production. We address key challenges encompassing electrocatalyst design, cost-effectiveness, durability, selectivity improvement, yield maximization, and technological integration.

Biorefineries offer a sustainable approach to producing fuels, chemicals, food, and feed from biomass, presenting a viable strategy for mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the biorefinery concept, with a particular focus on its integrated conversion processes, classification pathways, and the potential for retrofitting existing fossil fuel refineries. Emphasis is placed on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, home to some of the world’s largest hydrocarbon processing infrastructures, as a strategic case study for deploying biorefinery technologies. This review presents the latest trends in integrated biorefinery configurations and the potential for upgrading to drop-in fuels. It examines conventional biorefineries in the GCC, outlines their processing capacities, and explores suitable biomass feedstocks that thrive under the region’s high-temperature and high-salinity conditions. By highlighting both technological advancements and regional opportunities, this study underscores the potential for leveraging existing infrastructure in oil-rich nations to facilitate the transition toward sustainable bioenergy systems.

Purpose To develop an integrated, biomass-specific framework for identifying, weighting and modeling sustainable supplier selection criteria (SSSC) in biomass energy supply chains. The study aims to address gaps in existing supplier-selection research by capturing economic, social and environmental dimensions and the unique technical and seasonal challenges of biomass feedstocks. Design/methodology/approach A three-step approach was used: (1) a meta-synthesis of 56 studies to extract candidate criteria; (2) a two-round fuzzy Delphi method (12 experts from industry, academia, consultancy and policy) to validate and reduce the list to 18 final criteria and (3) application of the SISMW method to simultaneously weight criteria and model their structural interrelationships. ISM and MICMAC analyses were employed to derive hierarchical levels and driving/dependence classifications. Feedstock-specific considerations (e.g. agricultural residues, forestry residues, energy crops, municipal and industrial organic wastes) were incorporated into the framework. Findings The study produced 18 validated SSSC across economic, social and environmental dimensions. Top-ranked and most influential criteria are: organization and management (EC5), corporate social responsibility (SO3), environmental management system (EN4), organizational culture (SO4) and technology/equipment (EC4). SISMW yielded criterion weights and an ISM hierarchy; MICMAC classified EC4, EC5, SO3, SO4, SO6, EN1 and EN4 as primary driving (independent) criteria, while EC2, EC3, EC6, EC7, EN2 and EN5 were primarily dependent. Practical recommendations include biomass-specific certification, supplier technology development programs, carbon accounting and traceability systems and multi-tier supplier engagement. Originality/value This paper is, to our knowledge, the first application of the SISMW technique to biomass supplier selection, offering an integrated simultaneous-weighting-and-modeling approach tailored to biomass feedstock heterogeneity. The study advances theory by revealing causal links among sustainability criteria in the biomass context and provides actionable, feedstock-aware guidance for managers and policymakers.

Sustainable aviation fuel as a catalyst for decarbonizing Gulf Aviation: Technology and policy insights based on biomass feedstocks

3-hydroxypropionic acid production from Brewer's spent grain with an engineered Issatchenkia orientalis.

Near-infrared spectroscopy modeling for cellulose quantification in multiple species of plant biomass feedstocks

Enhancing mechanical strength and water resistance in cellulose fiber-based materials is crucial for their adoption as sustainable alternatives to petroleum plastics. However, achieving these improvements through a simple, economical, and ecofriendly approach remains a major challenge. Here, we present a chitosan (CS)-driven multiscale assembly and rearrangement strategy that produces fiber-lamella biocomposites with outstanding mechanical strength and water resistance, achieved without any chemical modification, thermal treatments, or mechanical pressing. This method leverages synergetic electrostatic interactions, hydrogen-bonding, and hydrophobic association where negatively charged microscale pliable pollen lamella and positively charged macromolecular CS sequentially assemble within pulp fibers to form dense, water-resistant networks. Relying solely on the spontaneous organization of the three components, the resulting fiber/pollen-CS (FP-CS) biocomposites exhibit superior mechanical strength (~80 MPa) and maintain water stability for up to 100 d. Remarkably, they also enable seamless water-resistant sealing through simple CS application, facilitating ecofriendly production of straws, packaging, and water-resistant patches. This green, scalable, and energy-efficient process uses only biomass feedstocks to produce high-performance biocomposites, offering a promising sustainable alternative to conventional plastics.

Asphalt is an aggregate binder in road pavement construction derived from the residue of the petroleum fractionation process, a non-renewable natural resource. Reliance on petroleum asphalt leads to resource scarcity and increased production costs. One alternative to reduce this dependence is the use of bio-asphalt substitutes, which utilize renewable natural resources derived from biomass. The abundance of biomass such as coconut shells, sawdust, and coffee husk in East Java, Indonesia, makes it a promising resource for bio-asphalt synthesis. This study analyzes the effect of biomass types and catalyst mass ratios on the characteristics of bio-asphalt from bio-oil pyrolysis and its mixture with petroleum asphalt, specifically the penetration (pen) 60/70. The research stages include biomass preparation, zeolite catalyst activation, biomass pyrolysis into bio-oil, evaporation into bio-asphalt, and mixture analysis. Optimal characteristics were achieved using a 6% w/w coconut shell biomass catalyst, resulting in a bio-oil yield of 47.27% and a density of 1.060 g/mL. The bio-asphalt yield was 3.41% when mixed with petroleum asphalt pen 60/70. The bio-asphalt exhibited a penetration value of 66.35, a softening point of 52°C, and a density of 1.042 g/cm³, in accordance with the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) 8135:2015.

BackgroundPlant-based materials have the potential to replace some petroleum-based products, offering compostability and biodegradability as critical advantages. Xylan-rich biomass sources are gaining recognition due to their abundance and underutilization in current industrial applications. Research of potential xylan applications has been complicated by the complex and heterogeneous structure that varies for different xylan feedstocks. Acylation is a broadly used reaction in functionalization of polysaccharides at an industrial scale. However, the efficiency of this reaction varies with the xylan source. To optimize xylan valorization, a systematic understanding of structure–reactivity relationships is essential.ResultsThis study explores, characterizes, and compares various xylan feedstocks in the acylation process. Xylan feedstocks were analyzed for their chemical composition, degree of polymerization, branching, solubility, and presence of impurities. These features were correlated with xylan glycotypes’ reactivity toward functionalization with succinic anhydride in an optimized DMSO/KOH condition, achieving carboxyl contents of up to 1.46. We used principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering to identify key structural features of xylan that promote its reactivity. Our findings reveal that xylans with higher xylose content and lower degrees of branching exhibit enhanced reactivity, achieving higher carboxyl content and yields. Structural analyses confirmed successful modification, and light scattering analyses showed dramatic changes in the solution properties. Succinylation improves the solubility and film-forming properties of native xylans.ConclusionsThis study shows key structure–reactivity relationships in xylan succinylation, establishing that low branching, high xylose content, and reduced lignin impurity enhance chemical functionalization. The results offer a framework for selecting optimal biomass feedstocks and support future efforts in genetic and synthetic biology to design plants with tunable xylan architectures. These findings advance the hemicellulose valorization for applications in coatings and packaging.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13068-025-02704-8.

Green algae have great potential for waste utilization, as they can efficiently harness sunlight energy, making them promising for large-scale applications in green biotechnology. Potato peel waste (PWW), rich in carbohydrates, organic acids, amino acids, vitamins, and trace elements, presents a promising substrate for sustainable biofuel production. This study aimed to study biomass and hydrogen (H2) production by green algae Chlorella vulgaris Pa-023 and Parachlorella kessleri MDC6524, cultivated in PPW-containing media. Culture of green algae (Algae Collection, Microbial Depository Center, NAS, Armenia) were grown under aerobic conditions upon illumination. Cultivation of algae in PWW-containing media resulted in significant increases of biomass yield: 35% for C. vulgaris and 60% for P. kessleri, compared to control culture grown in Tamiya medium. Moreover, algae cultivated in PWW media also exhibited higher levels of photosynthetic pigments (total carotenoids, chlorophylls a and b), indicating enhanced photosynthetic activity. The H2 yields of C. vulgaris and P. kessleri were 1.7-fold and 3.5-fold higher, respectively, in comparison with culture, cultivated in Tamiya medium, highlighting P. kessleri as the more efficient H2 producer under the tested conditions. The addition of diuron, a specific inhibitor of photosystem II (PS II), led to a 60% inhibition of H2 yield, indicating a PS II-dependent route of H2 evolution. These findings demonstrate that PPW is a valuable and cost-effective feedstock for biomass and H2 production. Using green algae for waste management not only helps reduce waste, but also supports biomass production for green energy generation. This dual benefit enhances algae value, especially in addressing current global environmental challenges.

In this study, we investigated the performance of iron-loaded biochar (Fe-BC) derived from mulberry branches in activating persulfate (PS) for the efficient degradation of sulfamethoxazole (SMX). The Fe-BC/PS system exhibited superior catalytic activity towards SMX degradation, achieving 97% removal within 60 min. The degradation efficiency was found to be highly dependent on preparation conditions, including calcination temperature, the type of iron salt, and biomass feedstock. Reactive species such as hydroxyl radicals (•OH), sulfate radicals (SO4•−), and iron (IV) (Fe(IV)) were identified as key contributors to SMX degradation, with Fe(IV) playing a dominant role. The influence of water quality parameters, such as inorganic ions, pH, and natural organic matter (NOM), on the degradation of SMX was also examined. Proposed degradation pathways revealed the stepwise oxidation of SMX into smaller intermediates, ultimately leading to mineralization. Our findings highlight the potential of Fe-BC/PS systems as a sustainable and effective approach for the remediation of sulfonamide antibiotics in aquatic environments.