First-principles models and sensitivity analysis for the lignocellulosic biomass-to-methanol conversion process

• A novel concept of integrated second-third generation biorefinery is presented.
• First-principles multi-scale and multi-phase models for the biomass gasifier are provided.
• First-principles models of water/gas cooled reactors for methanol synthesis are provided.
• Sensitivity analysis on the main parameters for gasification and methanol synthesis is given.

The paper illustrates the redefinition of the concept of biorefinery and its application onto the biogas field. The proposed integrated framework merges in a synergistic way the second and third generation biorefineries with the aim of reducing the CO2 emissions and maximizing the utilization of biomass potential. The specific focus of the paper is on the mathematical modelling of the main conversion steps of the lignocellulosic residuals into biosyngas by means of thermal treatment (pyrolysis, combustion, gasification) and, next, into biomethanol (heterogeneously catalyzed synthesis). The models are implemented in user-friendly programmes and adopted to estimate biomass conversion and process yield. A final study of sensitivity analysis is provided to open the way for the next process optimization based on detail models.