Selection, Characterization and Biomass Conversion Approaches for Biofuel Production

Abstract

The mounting problem due to global warming and the increase in the price of conventional fuel have alarmed researchers towards the production of biofuel to meet the future energy demand and reduce the environmental impact. Biofuel is considered as an alternative source of energy. Lignocellulose Biomass, Algal Biomass, Starch Crops, and Oil Crops/Waste Oils are the potential feedstock sources for biofuel production. Biomass to biofuel conversion requires two processes viz, thermochemical conversions such as combustion, gasification, pyrolysis, and hydrothermal liquefaction, and biochemical conversions such as anaerobic digestion, fermentation, and transesterification. The efficiency of biofuel conversion depends on the type of biomass; hence it is vital to understand the biomass composition and its properties. This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of biofuels, focusing on biomass characterization and its conversion approach. Additionally, the chapter examines diverse biofuel production methodologies that elucidate the process of converting biomass into biofuel.