Maximizing the sustainability of a macroalgae biorefinery: a superstructure optimization of a volatile fatty acid platform

Abstract

<p>Macroalgae are a valuable energy source that can be transformed into numerous products most notably fuels and chemicals due to their high content of carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins.</p>

Towards a low-carbon future: exploring green urea synthesis for sustainable agriculture

“…Discounted cash flows were generated using the following assumptions: a discount rate of 10%, a straight-line deprecia-tion method spanning over 7 years, a tax rate of 30%, a construction time of 2 years, plant start-up in the 3 rd year, and 8000 hours of operation annually as summarized in Table S5 of the ESI. † [26][27][28][29] The net present value (NPV) and the rate of return on investment were estimated as follows: 25 NPV ¼…”

Multifeedstock and Multiproduct Process Design Using Neural Network Surrogate Flexibility Constraints

“…11 Dickson et al applied the macroalgae biorefinery superstructure model to choose promising pathways, operating conditions, and wastewater treatment network. 12 Life cycle assessment (LCA) has been widely applied to evaluate the environmental impacts of chemical production and support sustainable process development. Nevertheless, the parameters and data used for LCA are often susceptible to uncertainties, which severely affect decision-making.…”

“…The superstructure formulation was also utilized for detailed technology and module selection in the biorefinery that produces advanced fuel from ethanol. , A greenhouse gas emission comparison of different yellow poplar forest residuals as the feedstock for integrated biorefinery operation was demonstrated based on the process simulation . Dickson et al applied the macroalgae biorefinery superstructure model to choose promising pathways, operating conditions, and wastewater treatment network …”

Optimal design of a biofuel supply chain using an augmented multi-objective and TOPSIS method

“…1 Third-generation biofuel is derived from a group of cyanobacteria and algae, ranging in size from microscopic (microalgae) to macroalgae. 2 In some areas, growing and utilizing one particular type of biomass may not be possible due to climatic conditions, geographic features, or natural resource requirements, and even if all conditions are suitable, the energy produced may not be sufficient for all purposes. 3 To improve the reliability and efficiency of the biofuel supply system, investigating the multifeedstock supply and designing a balanced portfolio of biomass types is necessary.…”

“…1 Third-generation biofuel is derived from a group of cyanobacteria and algae, ranging in size from microscopic (microalgae) to macroalgae. 2…”