Biomass Pretreatment and Conversion Processes

Lignocellulosic biomass conversion to fuel is the only sustainable way to meet the current and future energy demands, at least in displacing a substantial amount of liquid transportation fuel, and curb detrimental effects of greenhouse gas emissions. Various routes and processes to convert lignocellulosic biomass to fuels, chemicals, and bio-based materials have been developed in the last couple of decades. This book contains eleven chapters that intend to provide readers with updates on these various processes and routes to produce fuels and chemicals using lignocellulosic biomass. In addition, it covers the past and current developments on biomass logistics, analytical tools applied to characterize lignocellulosic biomass, environmental aspects and engine performance of various fuels, as well as techno-economical aspects of lignocellulosic biomass refinery. The following list summarizes the topics covered in this book: The past and current developments on biomass valorization in biochemical platforms. Developments in thermochemical conversion of biomass to fuels and chemicals including gasification, pyrolysis, and hydrothermal treatment. Heterogeneous catalysts application in low to high temperature conversion of biomass to fuels and chemicals. Pathways of lignin valorization to fuels and chemicals. Production methods and the physicochemical properties of nanocelluloses. The environmental impacts and engine performances of various bio-fuels. Biomass logistics and their impact on bioenergy applications. Anaerobic conversion of biomass to biogas and impacts of co-digestion on biogas yields and quality.