Researchers at the Joint BioEnergy Institute are exploring new ways to meet the challenge of recalcitrant cellulosic feedstocks and lower the cost of biomass-based biofuels. The group recently published two papers detailing their work to genetically modify xylan and lignin, resulting in improved conversion characteristics in the model plants used in the research. Follow this link to learn more: http://ethanolproducer.com/articles/9409/research-targets-cells-to-reduce-lignin-boost-fermentable-sugar
Category: Pretreatment
pretreatment webpage
Lignocellulosic Biomass Feedstock Transportation Alternatives, Logistics, Equipment Configurations, and Modeling
The paper reviews the major transportation alternatives and logistics and the implementation of those for various types of energy crops such as energy grasses, short-rotation woody coppices, and agricultural residue. It emphasizes the importance of performance-based equipment configuration, standard regulations, and rules for calculating transport cost of delivery systems. Follow this link to learn more: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/bbb.1322/abstract
Monitoring the Spatial Extent of Bioenergy Crops and Estimating Acreage with AWiFS Imagery
A presentation from the National Agricultural Statistics Service explaining the challenges of biomass-based biofuel production. Follow this link to learn more: http://www.nass.usda.gov/Education_and_Outreach/Reports,_Presentations_and_Conferences/Presentations/Mueller_ASPRS09_BioenergyCrops.pdf
Effect of Mixing on Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Steam-pretreated Spruce: a Quantitative Analysis of Conversion and Power Consumption
In the present study, the effects of mixing on the enzymatic hydrolysis of steam-pretreated spruce were investigated using a stirred tank reactor operated with different impeller speeds and enzyme loadings. Follow this link to learn more: http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/content/4/1/10
Structure and Function of Wood
The Forest Service describes the various parts of a tree, the differences between species of trees, and how a tree grows and matures. A great starting point to understanding wood. Follow this link to learn more: http://www.fpl.fs.fed.us/documnts/fplgtr/fplgtr190/chapter_03.pdf
The Chemical Composition of Wood
This USDA Forest Products Laboratory article describes the composition of wood at a molecular level. Follow this link to learn more: http://www.fpl.fs.fed.us/documnts/pdf1984/pette84a.pdf
Biomass Feedstock Pre-Processing – Part 2: Densification
This in-depth review article describes pre-processing procedures like densification of wood and agricultureal biomass. Follow this link to learn more: http://biomassmagazine.com/articles/8595/researchers-use-ionic-liquid-to-pretreat-biofuel-feedstock-mix
Researchers use ionic liquid to pretreat biofuel feedstock mix
Winemakers have long known that blending different grape varietals can favorably balance the flavor characteristics of the wine they produce. In the future, makers of advanced biofuels might use a similar strategy, blending different feedstock varieties to balance the energy characteristics of the transportation fuel they produce. Follow this link to learn more: http://biomassmagazine.com/articles/8595/researchers-use-ionic-liquid-to-pretreat-biofuel-feedstock-mix
Advanced Regional Biomass Processing Depots: a Key to the Logistical Challenges of the Cellulosic Biofuel Industry
This scholarly article discusses the fundamental concept of Regional Biomass Processing Depots, their functionality, advantages, and potential challenges. Follow this link to learn more: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/bbb.318/abstract
Production, Prices, Employment, and Trade in Northwest Forest Industries
Graphs and Diagrams of Various Aspects of Northwest Forest Industries Follow this link to learn more: http://www.fs.fed.us/pnw/ppet/