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Development and techno‐economic evaluation of a biorefinery based on biomass (waste) streams – case study in the Netherlands
Author(s) -
Van Dael Miet,
Márquez Nathalie,
Reumerman Patrick,
Pelkmans Luc,
Kuppens Tom,
Van Passel Steven
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
biofuels, bioproducts and biorefining
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.931
H-Index - 83
eISSN - 1932-1031
pISSN - 1932-104X
DOI - 10.1002/bbb.1460
Subject(s) - biorefinery , biomass (ecology) , renewable energy , production (economics) , biofuel , biochemical engineering , environmental science , waste management , biodiesel production , biodiesel , environmental economics , process engineering , engineering , economics , chemistry , oceanography , electrical engineering , catalysis , macroeconomics , geology , biochemistry
In this paper, the technical and economic advantages of combining conversion technologies into a multi‐dimensional plant primarily using regional biomass residues are investigated. The main objective is to show how locally available biomass can be used more efficiently as a source for renewable energy and bio‐based products. Therefore, not only is the theoretical perspective considered, but also a reality check for the local situation is taken into account. Although industrial attitude toward biorefineries is positive, the efficient production of a portfolio of bio‐based products has not yet been implemented. A biorefinery concept for Moerdijk (the Netherlands) was developed, focusing on grass refining, production of pyrolysis oil, biodiesel production, and bio‐ LNG production. Grass refining is the most experimental technique of all proposed conversion techniques. In terms of development, pyrolysis oil and bio‐ LNG production are in the demonstration phase. Anaerobic digestion and biodiesel production are proven techniques. It is shown that this concept allows for synergies with regard to the utilization of residue flows from internal processes. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that by integrating different conversion technologies, an economically feasible concept can be developed in which technologies, currently residing in a demonstration phase, can also be brought to the market. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd