Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
1.5.2.2
Phase II Biorefinery
Similarly to phase I biorefineries, phase II biorefineries can only process one
feedstock. However, they are capable of producing various end-products (energy,
chemicals and materials) and can therefore respond to market demand, prices,
contract obligation and the operating limits of the plant.
Recent studies have revealed that a biorefinery integrating biofuels and chemicals
offers a much higher return on investment and meets its energy and economic goals
simultaneously [37]. For instance, Wageningen University performed a study in 2010
in which 12 full biofuel value chains - both single-product processes and biorefinery
processes co-producing value-added products - were technically, economically and
ecologically assessed. The main overall conclusion was that the production costs of
the biofuels could be reduced by about 30% using the biorefinery approach [38].
One example of a phase II biorefinery is the Novamont plant in Italy, which
uses corn starch to produce a range of chemical products including biodegradable
polyesters (Origi-Bi) and starch-derived thermoplastics (Mater-Bi). Another
example of this type of biorefinery is the Roquette site of Lestrem in France that
produces a multitude of products including polyols, native and modified starches,
proteins and derivatives, cyclodextrins, organic acids and resins (see Figure 1.6).
Cereal grains
(
single feedstock
)
Multi-products
Polyols
Native and
modified starches
Physical separation
Pre-treatment
Proteins and
derivatives
Dietary fibres
Chemical and/or
biochemical catalysis
Enzymatic process
Cereal sugars
Cyclodextrins
Fermentation
Organic acids
Multi-processes
Plant-based resins
Figure 1.6
Roquette site in Lestrem, France: an example of a phase II biorefinery.
