A concise review of technologies for converting forest biomass to bioenergy

Abstract

The use of biomass is vital in reducing the negative effects of rising fossil fuel consumption. Given its quantity and diversity, forest biomass has garnered a lot of interest among the many kinds of biomass. This study evaluates the various strategies for transforming woody waste into usable biofuels. Carbon dioxide emissions from traditional energy generation systems could be mitigated through the direct utilization of forest biomass. Low energy conversion rates, as well as soot emissions and residues, are some of the problems that come up when directly using forest biomass. The sustainability of direct energy generation from forest biomass is also seriously threatened by the lack of constant access to biomass. Co-combustion with coal and pelletizing biomass is two solutions proposed for this issue. Co-combustion of forest biomass with coal has the potential to lower the process's emissions of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulfides. This article reviews and discusses the biochemical and thermochemical mechanisms that can transform forest biomass into a variety of liquid and gaseous biofuels. Future research using cutting-edge sustainability assessment tools like life cycle assessment, exergy, etc. should investigate the sustainability of forest biomass conversion processes to bioenergy further.