Biorefining: Sustainable Processing of Biomass into Bio-based Products and Energy

This book provides a comprehensive overview of biorefining as a sustainable alternative to fossil-based refining, converting renewable biomass, such as agricultural residues, forestry byproducts, energy crops, organic wastes, and algae, into biofuels, biochemicals, biomaterials, and energy. It explores the evolution from first- to fourth-generation biorefineries, feedstock selection, pretreatment and fractionation, biochemical and thermochemical conversion platforms, hybrid systems, and emerging advances in biotechnology and digitalization. Emphasis is on cascading valorization, circular economy principles, and applications in energy, cosmetics, and agrochemicals to support a low-carbon bioeconomy.