Superheated Steam Torrefaction of Biomass Residues with Valorisation of Platform Chemicals—Part 1: Ecological Assessment

Within the last decade, research on torrefaction has gained increasing attention due to its ability improve physical properties and chemical composition of biomass residues for further energetic utilisation. While most works focused improving energy density solid fraction offer an ecological alternative coal applications, little was paid valorisation condensable gases as platform chemicals relevance when compared conventional production processes. Therefore, present study focuses evaluation innovative biorefinery concept that includes superheated steam drying at ambient pressure, recovery volatiles valorisation/separation several valuable chemicals. For a reference case system design scenario, footprint assessed, considering use different residues. The results show newly developed process can compete with established bio-based processes furfural, 5-HMF acetic acid in terms assessed environmental performance indicators. requirements synthesis other promising necessary economic were elaborated.