Researchers Review the Use of Mixed Lignocellulosic Biomass for Ethanol Production

Lignocellulosic ethanol is a promising alternative to fossil fuels because its use is environment-friendly. However, the high costs of feedstock supply and processing requirements of lignocellulosic biomass hinder the development of the lignocellulosic biorefinery. So far, lignocellulosic ethanol production studies have focused on individual feedstocks.

The University of Malaya researchers, led by Mushafau Adebayo Oke, reviewed the use of mixed lignocellulosic biomass (MLB) in biofuel production. While laboratory evaluations have shown that mixed feedstocks can produce comparable or even higher ethanol yields, more studies are needed to prove the possibility of getting significant cost savings in production.

The team also cited some potential benefits of MLB for ethanol production as well as some anticipated limitations. Ways to overcome these limitations have also been suggested.

Ethanol production from MLB is promising provided that measures are taken to ensure the sustainability of the industry.