Process design and economic analysis of a hypothetical bioethanol production plant using carob pod as feedstock

► The process design of a bioethanol production plant from carob pod is carried out and an economic analysis is made. ► Total fixed capital investment estimated for the process is similar to that reported for traditional feedstocks. ► Ethanol production cost for the proposed process is also similar to that reported for traditional feedstocks. ► Feedstock prices lower than 0.188€/kg makes the process profitable.