Eco-friendly biomass pretreatment method yields efficient biofuels and adsorbents
A new biomass densification technique promises cost-effective bioethanol production and dye wastewater treatment
Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts
image:
Eco-Friendly Biomass Pretreatment Method Yields Efficient Biofuels and Adsorbents
view moreCredit: School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
As global demand for sustainable energy solutions increases, bioethanol production from lignocellulosic biomass is gaining traction. However, traditional methods face limitations due to high processing costs and waste issues. A recent study led by Xinchuan Yuan, published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts, presents an innovative biomass pretreatment method that not only improves bioethanol production efficiency but also utilizes biomass residues as bio-adsorbents for wastewater treatment, potentially transforming the industry.
Producing bioethanol from lignocellulosic biomass is essential for developing sustainable fuels. However, existing pretreatment methods often involve high sugar loss and require intensive solid-liquid separation, adding to production costs. This study introduces a densification pretreatment approach that uses sulfuric acid and metal salts under mild autoclave conditions, which reduces energy requirements and operational costs.
The researchers employed a combination of sulfuric acid and metal salts, specifically FeCl₃ and ZnCl₂, for pretreatment at 121°C. This process, called densified lignocellulosic biomass with sulfuric acid and metal salts (DLCA(SA-MS)), allows biomass loading as high as 400 kg/m³, a substantial increase over typical levels. The DLCA(SA-MS) biomass achieved over 95% sugar retention and 90% enzymatic sugar conversion, reaching a high fermentable sugar concentration of 212.3 g/L. This advancement could increase bioethanol yields, meeting growing energy needs sustainably.
Beyond bioethanol, the study also addresses the environmental impact of lignocellulosic residue. After bioethanol extraction, DLCA(SA-MS) residues were processed into bio-adsorbents. These bio-adsorbents exhibited strong adsorption properties for dyes like methyl orange and methylene blue, which are common pollutants in textile wastewater. The bio-adsorbents achieved removal rates of over 90% for methyl orange and 80% for methylene blue, offering an effective and eco-friendly solution for industrial wastewater treatment.
The DLCA(SA-MS) pretreatment method demonstrates significant potential in industrial applications by increasing bioethanol production efficiency and providing a sustainable approach to managing biomass residues. With its dual benefits—enhanced biofuel yields and dye wastewater treatment—this method aligns well with current environmental goals and economic pressures for sustainable biorefinery operations.
This new approach marks an important step toward full-component utilization of lignocellulosic biomass, reducing production costs, and improving environmental outcomes. Future research will focus on scaling up the process and further refining pretreatment conditions to maximize benefits.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobab.2024.09.004
Funding:
This research received support from the School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, and other institutional sponsors.
Citation:
Yuan, X., Shen, G., Huo, J., Chen, S., Shen, W., Zhang, C., & Jin, M. (2024). Enhanced biomass densification pretreatment using binary chemicals for efficient lignocellulosic valorization. Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts, 9, 548–564. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobab.2024.09.004
Journal
Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts
Method of Research
Experimental study
Subject of Research
Not applicable
Article Title
Enhanced biomass densification pretreatment using binary chemicals for efficient lignocellulosic
valorization
Enhancing compatibility and biodegradability of PLA/biomass composites via forest residue torrefaction
New torrefaction approach improves mechanical properties and decomposition rate of PLA composites
Peer-Reviewed Publicationimage:
New Torrefaction Approach Improves Mechanical Properties and Decomposition Rate of PLA Composites
view moreCredit: Center for Bio-based Chemistry, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Ulsan 44429, South Korea
With an increasing focus on environmental sustainability, researchers are seeking ways to improve the biodegradability and mechanical properties of bioplastics, particularly polylactic acid (PLA). A recent study by June-Ho Choi and colleagues, published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts, presents a promising approach that enhances the compatibility and decomposition of PLA when combined with biomass through a process called torrefaction. This innovation offers practical improvements for sustainable material applications, positioning PLA as a viable, eco-friendly alternative in various industries.
PLA, a biopolymer derived from renewable resources like corn starch, has gained popularity for its biodegradability and use in disposable products. However, its relatively low compatibility with other natural materials and slow decomposition under certain conditions present challenges for broader application. To address this, Choi’s team focused on improving the integration of PLA with biomass, specifically forest residue, through torrefaction—a thermal treatment that modifies the material properties by heating biomass in an oxygen-free environment. The team hypothesized that this method could enhance the mechanical strength and biodegradability of PLA/biomass composites.
The researchers employed torrefaction on forest residues, modifying their chemical structure to improve compatibility with PLA. This treatment involved heating the forest residue biomass at controlled temperatures, which increased its hydrophobicity and carbon content while reducing water absorption. By blending the torrefied biomass with PLA, the team created a composite with improved material compatibility and analyzed its physical, chemical, and mechanical properties.
The study found that torrefaction of forest residue enhanced the tensile strength of PLA/biomass composites without compromising biodegradability. When exposed to environmental conditions, the composite decomposed faster than pure PLA, largely due to reduced crystallinity and increased water permeability resulting from torrefaction. These modifications allowed the PLA/biomass composite to achieve quicker breakdown in natural settings, reducing environmental impact and making it a more sustainable option for disposable products.
This research demonstrates how torrefaction can significantly improve both the durability and decomposition rate of PLA/biomass composites, expanding their potential for sustainable product development. The new PLA composite offers a practical solution to balance strength and environmental impact, opening avenues for various applications, from packaging to agricultural films. Choi and his team’s work marks a substantial advancement in sustainable bioplastic technology, paving the way for eco-friendly and biodegradable materials that align with the global push toward reduced plastic pollution.
With an increasing focus on environmental sustainability, researchers are seeking ways to improve the biodegradability and mechanical properties of bioplastics, particularly polylactic acid (PLA). A recent study by June-Ho Choi and colleagues, published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts, presents a promising approach that enhances the compatibility and decomposition of PLA when combined with biomass through a process called torrefaction. This innovation offers practical improvements for sustainable material applications, positioning PLA as a viable, eco-friendly alternative in various industries.
PLA, a biopolymer derived from renewable resources like corn starch, has gained popularity for its biodegradability and use in disposable products. However, its relatively low compatibility with other natural materials and slow decomposition under certain conditions present challenges for broader application. To address this, Choi’s team focused on improving the integration of PLA with biomass, specifically forest residue, through torrefaction—a thermal treatment that modifies the material properties by heating biomass in an oxygen-free environment. The team hypothesized that this method could enhance the mechanical strength and biodegradability of PLA/biomass composites.
The researchers employed torrefaction on forest residues, modifying their chemical structure to improve compatibility with PLA. This treatment involved heating the forest residue biomass at controlled temperatures, which increased its hydrophobicity and carbon content while reducing water absorption. By blending the torrefied biomass with PLA, the team created a composite with improved material compatibility and analyzed its physical, chemical, and mechanical properties.
The study found that torrefaction of forest residue enhanced the tensile strength of PLA/biomass composites without compromising biodegradability. When exposed to environmental conditions, the composite decomposed faster than pure PLA, largely due to reduced crystallinity and increased water permeability resulting from torrefaction. These modifications allowed the PLA/biomass composite to achieve quicker breakdown in natural settings, reducing environmental impact and making it a more sustainable option for disposable products.
This research demonstrates how torrefaction can significantly improve both the durability and decomposition rate of PLA/biomass composites, expanding their potential for sustainable product development. The new PLA composite offers a practical solution to balance strength and environmental impact, opening avenues for various applications, from packaging to agricultural films. Choi and his team’s work marks a substantial advancement in sustainable bioplastic technology, paving the way for eco-friendly and biodegradable materials that align with the global push toward reduced plastic pollution.
Journal
Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts
Method of Research
Experimental study
Subject of Research
Not applicable
Article Title
Enhancing Compatibility and Biodegradability of Polylactic Acid/Biomass Composites Through Torrefaction of Forest Residue
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