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Day 3 : October 4, 2017

Keynote Forum

Seema Singh

Joint Bioenergy Institute, USA

Keynote: Enabling bioeconomy and sustainability: technologies for fuels and chemical production from lignocellulose

Time : 09:00 - 09:30

Conference Series Biofuels-2017 International Conference Keynote Speaker Seema Singh photo

Biography:

Seema Singh is a biophysicist and a guest senior scientist with the JBEI Deconstruction Research Division & a director of Biomass Pretreatment. She is a distinguished member of the technical staff in Biomass Science and Conversion Technologies Department at Sandia National laboratories, CA.

Abstract:

Today, carbon-rich fossil fuels, primarily oil, coal and natural gas, provide 85 percent of the energy consumed in the United States. Fossil fuel use increases CO2 emissions, increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases and raising the risk of global warming. The high energy content of liquid hydrocarbon fuels makes them the preferred energy source for all modes of transportation. In the US alone, transportation consumes around 13.8 million barrels of oil per day and generates over 0.5 gigatons of carbon per year. This has spurred research into alternative, non-fossil energy sources. Among the options (nuclear, concentrated solar thermal, geothermal, hydroelectric, wind, solar and biomass), only biomass has the potential to provide a high-energy-content transportation fuel. Biomass is renewable resource that is carbon-neutral.Currently, biofuels such as ethanol are produced largely from grains, but there is a large, untapped resource (estimated at more than a billion tons per year) of plant biomass that could be utilized as a renewable, domestic source of liquid fuels. Well-established processes convert the starch content of the grain into sugars that can be fermented to ethanol. Plant-derived biomass contains cellulose, which is more difficult to convert to sugars. The development of cost-effective and energy-efficient processes to transform cellulose and lignin in biomass into fuels and chemicals is hampered by significant roadblocks, including the lack of specifically developed energy crops, the difficulty in separating biomass components, low activity of enzymes used to deconstruct biomass, and the inhibitory effect of fuels and processing byproducts on organisms responsible for producing fuels from biomass monomers.

The Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI) is one of three US Department of Energy Bioenergy Research Centers that is addressing these roadblocks in biofuels production by developing the scientific and technological base needed to convert the energy stored in cellulose into transportation fuels and commodity chemicals. This talk will present a summary of the efforts at JBEI and highlight the efforts on the discovery and development of novel biomass pretreatment methods that enable the efficient conversion of biomass into next-generation biofuels. I will also discuss, examples of lignin conversion technologies being developed by my team at Sandia National Laboratories via hybrid approaches and synthetic biology.

Keynote Forum

Francisco GarcÃa Labiano

ICB-CSIC, Spain

Keynote: Bioenergy production through chemical looping processes

Time : 09:30 - 10:00

Conference Series Biofuels-2017 International Conference Keynote Speaker Francisco GarcÃa Labiano photo

Biography:

Francisco García-Labiano is currently a Scientific Researcher at the Instituto de Carboquímica in Zaragoza, belonging to the Spanish National Research Council(CSIC). His research has been always close linked to environmental challenges in energy production processes. Since 2000, he has been involved in the development of the Chemical Looping Combustion (CLC), one of the most promising technologies within the area of CO2 Capture and Storage (CCS) aiming to reduce global warming. More recently he has been actively engaged in the use of renewable fuels, such as biomass, bioethanol, etc. in Chemical Looping processes (bio-CLC) with the main objective to reach negative CO2 emissions in energy processes. He is the author of more than 150 publications in international peer reviewed journals, 3 patents, etc. He has been recognized as Highly Cited Researcher by Thomson Reuters within engineering area in years 2015 and 2016.

Abstract:

This work presents an overview of the recent advances in bio-CLC technology within the key strategies arising nowadays to mitigate climate change. The Paris Agreement, the new treaty of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), urges to decarbonize the world energy systems in the near future in order to limit the increase in the average world temperature to 2ºC above pre-industrial levels. To reach this goal, CO2 emissions should start to decrease by 2020 and become negative by the end of the century. Among the different options, most of the low-carbon scenarios rely on the use of BECCS (Bioenergy and Carbon Capture and Storage) as mandatory technologies to reach negative emissions. In this sense, Chemical Looping Combustion (CLC) is considered one of the most promising CCS technologies for power plants and industries because its inherent CO2 capture avoids the energetic penalty present in other competing technologies. CLC process is based on the use of a solid oxygen carrier to transfer the oxygen from air to the fuel avoiding direct contact between them. The technology has undergone a great development during last 15 years including operational experience in continuous units and oxygen carrier’s manufacture. In addition, the new Chemical Looping with Oxygen Uncoupling (CLOU) process represents a qualitative step forward in solid fuel combustion due to the use of materials with capability to release oxygen. There are several renewable energy sources that can be used in chemical looping processes, including both solid and liquid fuels. The use of biomass in CLC represents important advantages compared to conventional biomass combustion. Besides CO2 negative balance, higher thermal efficiency, NOx formation reduction and lower corrosion in heat exchangers have been reported. In addition, several renewable liquid fuels, such as bioethanol can be also used both in combustion (CLC) and reforming (CLR) processes for heat/electricity and syngas/H2 production, respectively. In summary, the use of renewable fuels in chemical looping processes represents at this moment a very promising opportunity for future green energy development.

Keynote Forum

Animesh Dutta

University of Guelph, Canada

Keynote: Renewable fuels and products from biomass: A hybrid thermochemical and biochemical conversion process

Time : 10:00-10:30

Conference Series Biofuels-2017 International Conference Keynote Speaker Animesh Dutta photo

Biography:

Animesh Dutta is an Associate Professor and Director of Bio-renewable Innovation Lab and Associate Director of graduate studies with the School of Engineering at the University of Guelph, Canada. He is specialized in advanced energy systems and thermo-fluid science with hands-on experience in reactor design and pilot plant operation, design and performance of various tests in laboratory scale and pilot scale units, thermal design and process development. His current research is focused on thermochemical conversion (gasification, combustion, torrefaction, hydrothermal carbonization and liquefaction) and characterization of agri-residue, biomass and waste (MSW, Bio-solids) for fuel and energy and design and optimization of advanced energy systems. He is committed to developing an innovative research program on energy and other value-added products from biomass and waste materials. In his career, he has published over 75 peer-reviewed journal papers, 3 book chapters and has roughly 85 conference publications and reports.

Abstract:

Food security, climate change and energy sustainability are three major challenges in the 21st century. Among different renewable energy sources, bioenergy is a renewable primary energy source that touches all three major issues due to its competition with food on land use, low net CO2 emissions and potentially sustainable if the economic, environmental and societal impacts are properly managed. The research at Bio-renewable Innovation Lab (BRIL) at Guelph focuses on research and development of a novel approach for the production of an array of renewable products such as energy, fuels and products from Canada’s particular range of low grade biomass sources. These sources range from woody biomass to agricultural wastes, municipal green bin collections and animal manures. This novel approach integrates thermochemical and biochemical conversion processes through a series of innovative technologies (i.e., hydrothermal pretreatment, supercritical gasification or anaerobic digestion with dry reforming, gas-to-liquid fuel through fermentation). The innovative and synergistic integration of design with processing through the above projects are expected to result in renewable fuels and value-added products. The resulting biocarbon can substitute fossil resources on a cost-performance basis with the added benefit of eco-friendliness. This could mean a tremendous reduction in greenhouse gas emission through the use of bioproduct, reducing our dependency on petroleum. The use of hydrothermal, chemical looping and supercritical gasification, anaerobic digestion, dry reforming of biogas to produce syngas and syngas fermentation techniques in the development and application of biofuels and products would lead to reduced dependency on petroleum and a sustainable economy.

Break: Networking & Refreshment Break 10:30-10:40 @ Restaurant

Keynote Forum

Weilan shao

Jiangsu University, China

Keynote: Why is the thermophilic ethanol fermentation limited to low ethanol titers?

Time : 10:40 - 11:10

Conference Series Biofuels-2017 International Conference Keynote Speaker Weilan shao photo

Biography:

Dr. Weilan Shao holds a Master degree in Plant Disease and a Ph.D. degree in Microbiology. She participated in the field of the thermophilic degradation and fermentation of lignocellulosic biomass for her PhD study (1990-1993) in the University of Georgia, USA. Dr. Shao has worked as a distinguished professor in Jiangnan University, Nanjing normal University and Jiangsu University in China. Her research mission is to develop feasible and economic effective approaches for enzyme production and renewable bioenergy processing by using molecular biotechnology. Dr. Shao and her group have discovered a series of novel lignocellulases, the key aldehyde dehydrogenase for ethanol formation, the repressor/operator system coupling glycolysis and fermentation pathways, and the regulation mechanism of thermophilic ethanol fermentation. Dr Shao also invents new techniques of gene expression system (US patent), in situ gene random mutagenesis (CN patent; US patent), novel selection marker and so on.

Abstract:

Ethanogenic thermophiles can conduct consolidate fermentation of cellulosic ethanol; however, their practical application has been hindered by the fact that the fermentation results in relatively low final ethanol titers. Metabolic engineering has emerged as a powerful tool for improving ethanol production, but it is very fundamental to understand why thermophilic ethanol fermentation is ended, and how ethanol productivity can be elevated via metabolic engineering. Thermoanaerobacter ethanolicus strains are able to grow at temperatures above 70oC, use xylose efficiently, and produce ethanol as main fermentation product. Therefore T. ethanolicus JW200 is taken as a model strain of thermophilic ethanogens to study ethanol fermentation pathway and its regulation mechanisms. After AdhE was identified as the main aldehyde dehydrogenase (Aldh) ,physiological roles of the key enzymes AdhA, AdhB and AdhE have been determined in T. ethanolicus. All the seenzymes are able to catalyze reversible reactions forethanol formation and consumption based on substrate concentrations. AdhB gene is transcribed at beginning of cell growth in the absence of ethanol; AdhB has weak but both Aldh and Adh activities which initiate ethanol formation. The trace ethanol produced by AdhB induces gene transcription to produce AdhA and AdhE which conduct active
formation of ethanol. Further accumulated ethanol will increase the reverse reactions for ethanol consumption and inhibit the transcription of all Aldh and Adh genes. The transcription of dehydrogenase genes is regulated by redox-sensing-protein, which binds to oprators of different affinities so that adhA, adhB and adhE are expressed at directed time. Traditionally, it is believed that low ethanol titer is resulted from lacking high ethanol tolerance in thermophilic ethanogens (>4%). However, presented results support a regulation theory: The limitation of final ethanol titer is achieved in thermophilic ethanogens by a systematic regulation through transcriptions and reversible activities of the key enzymes involved in the ethanol fermentation pathway.

Special session

Location: Dorothy

Chair

Donald L Rockwood

University of Florida, USA

Session Introduction

Donald L Rockwood

University of Florida, USA

Title: Eucalyptus trees for bioenergy

Time : 11:45-12:05

Biography:

Dr. Donald L. Rockwood, President of Florida FGT LLC, has over 30 years of experience on the development and use of Eucalyptus amplifolia, E. grandis, Corymbia torelliana, Populus deltoides, cypress, and slash pine hybrids in Florida and elsewhere. Also Professor Emeritus at the School of Forest Resources and Conservation, University of Florida, he is actively involved with the genetic improvement of several Short Rotation Woody Crop (SRWC) species, including the commercial release of E. grandis cultivars, and with research on and the development of SRWC systems using these species.

Abstract:

Fast growing trees such as eucalypts have a number of potential bioenergy applications. Eucalyptus species are native to Australia but grown extensively worldwide as short rotation hardwoods for a variety of timber products and as ornamentals. They are the most valuable and widely planted hardwood in the world (18 million ha in 90 countries). Eucalypts are grown extensively as exotic plantation species in tropical and subtropical regions throughout Africa, South America, Asia, and Australia, and, in more temperate regions of Europe, South America, North America, and Australia. India has over 8.0 million mostly low productivity ha followed by Brazil with over 3.0 million mostly intensively cultivated ha reaching average productivities of 45–60 m3/ha/year. We describe their general importance with specific emphasis on existing and emerging markets as energy products and the potential to maximize their productivity as short rotation woody crops. Many conversion technologies are well understood, and several are being developed. Biomass characteristics, difficulty in securing adequate and cost effective supplies early in project development, and planning constraints currently prevent Eucalyptus bioenergy from reaching its full potential. Using experience in Florida, USA and similar locations, we document their current energy applications and assess their productivity as short-term and likely long-term energy and related products. However, increased biomass productivity and quality, prospects for carbon trading, distributed energy systems and hydrogen, multiple products from bio refining, and government incentives should foster the use of fast growing trees for bioenergy.

Ronald S Zalesny Jr

United States Department of Forest Service, USA

Title: Fast growing poplars for bioenergy

Time : 12:05:12:25

Biography:

Dr. Ronald S. Zalesny Jr., Team Leader and Research Plant Geneticist at the Northern Research Station’s Institute for Applied Ecosystem Studies, has over 20 years of experience on the development of Populus species and their hybrids for bioenergy, biofuels, and bioproducts. In addition, he is currently conducting ecosystem services research on the use of Populus and other short rotation woody crops for phytoremediation, phyto-recurrent selection, and associated phytotechnologies. He serves on the editorial boards of BioEnergy Research and International Journal of Phytoremediation, as well as being Coordinator of IUFRO working group 2.08.04 (Physiology and Genetics of Poplars and Willows), International Delegate to the Environmental Applications Working Party of FAO’s International Poplar Commission, Board Member of the International Phytotechnology Society, and Chairperson of the Short Rotation Woody Crops Operations Working Group.

Abstract:

Fast growing trees such as poplars have a number of potential bioenergy applications. Currently, the genus Populus is comprised of 32 species belonging to 6 taxonomic sections, each with distinct environmental and economic importance. In addition to being grown within their native ranges, successful natural and planned inter- and intra-species hybridization has resulted in poplars being used worldwide for bioenergy, biofuels, and bioproducts, as well as timber products (e.g., pulpwood, sawn wood, veneer) and ecological applications (e.g., phytoremediation and associated phytotechnologies).

Poplars are among the most valuable and widely planted hardwoods in the world, with 28 countries having significant areas of planted poplar totaling 8.8 million ha. Nearly 90% of these worldwide poplars are grown in Asia, with China producing 85.7% of the global total. Additionally, European countries have 9.4% of the worldwide poplar production, followed by North America (1%), South America (0.6%) and Africa (0.1%). Across the globe, poplar productivities range from 8.6 to 13.9 Mg ha-1 yr-1, with average mean annual increment of 11.2 Mg ha-1 yr-1. In general, the greatest poplar productivities are from Asia and North America, with mean values that are 1.4 and 1.1 times the global average, respectively. In contrast, productivities from Europe and South America are 90% and 54% of the worldwide mean, respectively. I will describe the general importance of poplar energy crops for the provision of ecosystem services such as biomass production and carbon sequestration, and I will emphasize how these uses can be integrated into existing and emerging markets as bioenergy products. Using experiences in the Midwestern USA and similar locations, I will highlight how maximization of productivity potential across the landscape contributes to environmental and economic benefits of these purpose-grown trees, regardless of end use and geographic location of deployment.

Timothy A Volk

State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, USA

Title: Shrub willow for bioenergy and ecosystem services

Time : 12:25-12:45

Biography:

Timothy A Volk is a Senior Research Associate at State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF), USA. He has over 25 years of experience working in the fields of forestry, agroforestry, short-rotation woody crops, bioenergy and phytoremediation in the Northeastern United States and West Africa. In his current position, he is responsible for projects focused on the development of shrub willow biomass production systems for bioenergy and bioproducts and incorporating willow into sustainable landscape designs. He is also actively involved in the development of harvesting systems for woody crops and sustainability assessments of willow and forest based bioenergy systems.

Abstract:

Short-rotation coppice (SRC) systems, like shrub willow (Salix spp.) and poplar (Populus spp.), are projected to supply over 200 million dry tons of biomass annually in the U.S. by 2040. Shrub willow can be grown on a wide range of sites to generate biomass for heat, power, liquid fuels and renewable bioproducts while providing additional environmental and rural development benefits. Shrub willow has many characteristics that make it anideal biomass feedstock including high yields, the ability to resprout after coppice, two to four year harvest cycles, ease of propagation from dormant stem cuttings, ease of breeding, a broad genetic base and a feedstock composition similar to other sources of woody biomass. Research on shrub willow for biomass energy and alternative applications (bioremediation, vegetative covers, treatment of organic wastes, riparian buffers, living snow fences) has been ongoing in the U.S. for over 30 years. Collaborative efforts involving both private, NGOs and public entities at the local, state and federal level have been critical to facilitating the commercialization of this system. The current expansion of willow in New York has been possible because of government incentive programs, commitment by an end user for the production of renewable power and heat, breeding and commercial scale up of improved cultivars and the development of reliable planting and harvesting systems. Deploying willow in multifunctional value-added systems provides opportunities for potential producers and end users to learn about the system and characteristics of the biomass feedstock, which will help remove barriers to deployment.

Break:
Lunch Break 12:45-13:30 @ Foyer A

Biomass | Bioenergy

Location: Dorothy

Chair

Prabir Basu

Dalhousie University, Canada

Co-Chair

Charles M. Cai

Universitty of California Riverside, USA

Session Introduction

Prabir Basu

Dalhousie University, Canada

Title: A comprehensive study on production of torrefied biofuel using inclined rotary reactor

Time : 13:30-13:50

Biography:

Prabir Basu is an educator and specialist in energy and environment, with a 30-year long professional career in energy, environment and power generation. He is consultant to several companies around the world for issues on fluidized bed boilers and gasifiers. He has authored several books on biomass conversion and fluidized bed boilers. He is also the President of Greenfield Research Incorporated, a private R&D company.

Abstract:

Torrefaction produces a char product with higher specific energy, lower equilibrium moisture content than untreated material, brittleness requiring low grinding energy and resistive to environmental degradation. Additionally, torrefaction provides a product of uniform qualities. Torrefaction process, thus, appears as excellent solution for pretreating biomass. A two-stage, inclined continuous rotary torrefier with novel flights has been developed in the Biomass Conversion Laboratory at Dalhousie University for improving biomass torrefaction process as is shown in Figure-1. Experimental work on torrefaction of fine Poplar wood particles (0.5-1.0 mm) in the torrefier was undertaken for a deeper understanding of the working of such torrefiers where the volatile gas released was used as the torrefaction medium instead of nitrogen. The rotary torrefier is operated under different operating conditions by varying its rotational speed, tilt angle and temperature. Chemical and physical properties of the torrefied products included ultimate and proximate analysis, polymeric analysis, energy density, mass yield, energy yield and bulk density were measured. Temperature and conversion at different interior points along the length of the rotary reactor while the biomass was being progressively torrefied in it were measured. Fixed carbon content, volatile and energy density of biomass undergoing torrefaction varied linearly along the length of the torrefier. Typical values of change in heating value, mass yield and energy yield of torrefied biomass was 40%, 34% and 48%, respectively for 300 °C and 5 RPM and 1° of tilt angle. Results showed that temperature is the most important parameter in the torrefaction process.

Charles M. Cai

University of California Riverside, USA

Title: Biomass deconstruction towards total carbon utilization for future biorefineries

Time : 13:50-14:10

Biography:

Charles M Cai is a Research Engineer and Adjunct Professor at UC Riverside, USA. He is also Co-Founder and CTO of MG Fuels, a bioenergy company. His

research focuses on the biological and catalytic processing of lignocellulosic biomass. He is responsible for creating and advancing the CELF process, one of the most promising new biomass conversion technologies, to enable affordable community scale production of power and liquid fuels. In 2017, he was listed in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 in Energy. He has received his PhD in Chemical and Environmental Engineering at UC Riverside and his BS in Biochemical Engineering at UC Davis.

Abstract:

Lignocellulosic biomass is the most abundant source of organic carbon on Earth and presents the only option with the potential to economically and sustainably replace fossil resources for large-scale production of renewable chemicals, materials and liquid fuels. However, past methods to achieve the facile deconstruction of biomass has been challenged by processing difficulties, low product recovery and excessive materials and energy costs. Here, we evaluate lessons learned over decades of research and outline key features in advanced technologies for biomass pretreatment that are necessary to help achieve more economically feasible deconstruction of biomass. We demonstrate how atomic-scale interactions simulated by supercomputers could help understand key chemical mechanisms responsible for biomass breakdown to help improve design of bulk-scale pretreatment processes that can be subsequently integrated with biological or catalytic conversion pathways. The objective of biomass deconstruction is then to maximize the total carbon utilization of biomass to products by improving recovery of sugars and lignin and managing the removal of trace inorganics. Towards these goals we have created a breakthrough pretreatment technology called as CELF (Co-solvent Enhanced Lignocellulosic Fractionation) that provides a front-end platform for biomass-based bio-refineries to achieve the highest utilization of sugars to liquid fuels and lignin to fuels and value-added co-products. CELF can then be coupled with both advanced biological and catalytic methods to help achieve unprecedented performance at significantly lower material and energy costs.

Alberto Abad

ICB-CSIC, Spain

Title: Biomass combustion with CO2 capture by chemical looping

Time : 14:10-14:30

Biography:

Alberto Abad is Tenured Scientist at the Instituto de Carboquímica at Zaragoza, belonging to the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC). His research has been always close linked to environmental challenges in energy production processes. Since 2002, he has been involved in the development of the Chemical Looping Combustion (CLC), one of the most promising technologies within the area of CO2 Capture and Storage (CCS) aiming to reduce global warming. More recently he has been actively engaged in the use of renewable fuels, such as biomass in Chemical Looping processes (bio-CLC) with the main objective to reach negative CO2 emissions in energy processes. He is author of more than 140 publications in international peer reviewed journals (h-index: 44) and 3 patents related to the development of oxygen carrier materials.

Abstract:

Bioenergy and Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS), is an interesting option to remove CO2 from the atmosphere, thus mitigating the CO2 emissions from the use of non-renewable sources, i.e., fossil fuels. BECCS has been identified as a relevant measure toachieve the target enforced by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in the Paris Agreement:To limit the increase in the average world temperature to 2ºC above pre-industrial levels. However, implementing CO2 capturein bioenergy through common technologies has the drawback of high economic and energetic costs. In this sense, the Chemical Looping Combustion (CLC) technology allows inherent CO2 capture at low cost during combustion. The benefits of CLC are based on avoiding the costly separation steps required in commercial CO2 capture processes, e.g., CO2 separation in flue gases or O2 production for oxy-fuel combustion, by the use of an oxygen carrier. The purpose of the oxygen carrier, usually a particulate metal oxide, is to transfer oxygen from air to fuel in order to avoid the direct contact between them. Thus, the oxygen carrier provides the oxygen required for combustion in the so-called fuel reactor. The oxygen carrier is later regenerated by air in the air reactor. The most common design of a CLC unit includes two fluidized bed reactors, being those mentioned fuel and air reactors with the oxygen carrier continuously circulating among them. CLC has been widely investigated for the use of gaseous fuels and coal but the interest of using biomass has recently increased considering that negative CO2 emissions would be possible. The objective of this work is to contributeto the development of biomass combustion by CLC evaluating the use of new and highly reactive Mn-based materials as oxygen carriers. Experiments were performed in a continuous 500 Wth CLC unit at Instituto de Carboquimica (ICB-CSIC), consisting oftwo interconnected fluidized-bed reactors. After determination of both gas streams composition, the performance of the CLC process was assessed by calculating the CO2 capture rate and the combustion efficiency as a function of the operating conditions. During the experimental campaign, the temperature in fuel reactor and the circulation rate of the oxygen carrier were varied. In general, CO2 capture rates close to 100% were obtained, which increased with temperature. In addition, high values of combustion efficiency were obtained. When the combustion was incomplete, the major unburnt compounds from the fuel reactor were H2, CO and CH4. Likely, these unburnt gases could proceed from the volatile matter as a high conversion of char would be expected. Interestingly, the amount of tar detected was low and they do not contribute significantly to the combustion efficiency.

Niclas Scott Bentsen

University of Copenhagen, Denmark

Title: Carbon debt of forest bioenergy - Fact or fantasy?

Time : 14:30-14:50

Biography:

Niclas Scott Bentsen is an Associate Professor at Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. With a background in Forest Engineering, his research focuses on quantifying agriculture and forest biomass resources, on resource allocation in energy systems and on sustainability of bioenergy with emphasis on carbon dynamics and climate impacts.

Abstract:

In later years the potential contribution of forest bioenergy to mitigate climate change has been increasingly questioned due to temporal displacement between CO2 emissions when forest biomass is used for energy and subsequent sequestration of carbon in new biomass. Also disturbance of natural decay of dead biomass when used for energy affect the carbon dynamics of forest ecosystems. These perturbations of forest ecosystems are summarized under the concept of carbon debt and its payback time. In the vast body of literature one can find support for almost any view on the climate impact of forest bioenergy, from being instantly beneficial to analyses showing that it will not in the next 10,000 years contribute to global warming mitigation. The objectives of the paper is to identify patterns and commonalities in assumptions and outcomes across the current scientific literature on forest bioenergy, carbon dynamics and global warming mitigation potential and to identify factors influencing carbon debt and payback times of energy production based on forest biomass. Binary recursive partitioning was used for pattern search. Partitioning is a multivariate non-parametric procedure that recursively partitions data to find groupings in predictor variables that best predicts a response variable. Partitioning does not require prior knowledge of distributions, models and interactions. The meta-analysis confirms that the outcome of carbon debt studies lie in the assumptions and find that methodological rather than ecosystem and management related assumptions determine the findings. The study implies that at the current development of carbon debt methodologies and their lack of consensus the concept in itself is inadequate for informing and guiding policy development. At the management level the carbon debt concept may provide valuable information directing management principles in more benign climate directions.

Scott Sattler

USDA-ARS, USA

Title: Modifying lignin content and composition to improve sorghum for bioenergy

Time : 14:50-15:10

Biography:

Scott Sattler is a Research Molecular Biologist for USDA-ARS, whose expertise is in the areas of plant biochemistry and molecular genetics. For the past 10 years,

he has led research efforts for to develop sorghum as a feedstock, and improve the biomass of composition sorghum for bioenergy uses

Abstract:

Modifying lignin content and composition are major targets for bioenergy feedstock improvement for both cellulosic and thermal bioenergy conversion. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is currently being developed as a dedicated bio-energy feedstock. To increase the energy content of sorghum biomass for thermal bioenergy conversion processes, including pyrolysis and direct combustion, a series of transgenic events ectopically expressing ten monolignol biosynthetic genes and a Myb transcription factor, SbMyb60, were developed. Higher lignin content is desirable, because lignin has greater energy content than cellulose or hemicellulose cell wall components. The events overexpressing SbMyb60 have elevated levels of enzymes from the lignin biosynthetic pathway, increased levels of phenolic compounds and increased energy content. This result indicated that overexpression of this transcription factor is sufficient to induce phenyl propanoid synthesis in sorghum. Likewise, overexpression of caffeoyl CoA O-methyltransferase (SbCCoAOMT) resulted in increased energy content, but without increasing lignin concentration. In contrast, reducing lignin content is desirable for improving cellulosic bioenergy conversion. To reduce lignin content and alter lignin composition, brown midrib (bmr) mutants are being utilized. bmr6 and 12 sorghum lines have been previously shown to significantly increase ethanol conversion through saccharification and fermentation. Currently, five other bmr loci are being evaluated for the potential to improve biomass conversion. In addition, both the bmr and the transgenic strategies are being combined together with the goal of tailoring lignin content and composition beyond what has been previously observed in sorghum. The development of these experimental lines with altered phenyl propanoid metabolism will lead to a greater understanding of how these modifications impact plant fitness and affect bioenergy conversion technologies in sorghum and other bioenergy grasses

James B Houser

Appalachian State University, USA

Title: Cold climate anaerobic digestion

Time : 15:10:15:30

Biography:

James B Houser is an Associate Professor in the Department of Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment at Appalachian State University, where he focuses on issues of resource management, biomass energy and the relationship of technology and society and recently co-authored a book entitled Starting the Dialogue: Perspectives on Technology and Society. He has been actively involved with issues of sustainability at Appalachian State University, serving as Faculty Co-Chair of the Sustainability Council. He has received BA in Biology from Wake Forest University, MA in Appropriate Technology from Appalachian State University and a PhD in Biological and Agricultural Engineering from Cornell University. His Post-doctorate work was at the University of Georgia in the Agricultural Water Use program. He was also a licensed Waste Water Treatment Plant Operator in the state of North Carolina.

Abstract:

Small-scale animal farmers face unique challenges in bringing products to local markets. To stay profitable amid changing market conditions, on-farm systems that integrate inputs and outputs to keep nutrient and energy flows within the farm are essential. Anaerobic digestion (AD) of wastes is a powerful technology that serves this function, as it transforms manure into two valuable onfarm byproducts: Renewable biogas that can replace fossil fuels and nutrient-rich digestate that can be used as an organic replacement of petrochemical fertilizers. However, small-scale digesters that function passively (and therefore cost-effectively) in cold climates previously did not exist. In the last decade, such digesters that passively maintain operating temperatures through the greenhouse effect and thermal mass have been developed and implemented for under $300 in material costs (Figure-1). These digesters have the potential for low-income farmers in cold climates to manage manure more efficiently while creating a yield-boosting organic fertilizer and a fossil fuel substitute that can be used for heating greenhouses, value-added process heating or electricity generation. As food systems become more localized and distributed, such a technology can be a keystone to small farm viability. Researchers at Appalachian State University in the mountains of North Carolina have been designing, constructing and testing multiple prototype systems for cold temperature anaerobic digestion. A solar thermal system that uses thermo-siphoning has proven to be effective in maintaining digester temperatures and gas production through Boone, North Carolina winters that have an average of Soil Loss and Available Water Content to Assess the Sustainability of temperature between 0 and 5oC. We also have a Taiwanese type digester that is buried, insulated and heated through heat exchangers in-line with a static compost pile that has been able to maintain proper temperatures during periods of cold weather. We are also experimenting with a super-insulated digester building that should require very little energy for temperature maintenance.

Jacob K Jensen

Michigan State University, USA

Title: Genetic manipulation of the cell wall hemicellulose component as a route to improved feedstock materials for biofuels production

Time : 15:30-15:50

Biography:

Jacob K Jensen has his expertise in plant cell wall materials and their formation. His particular area of interest is cell wall molecular architecture and design principles.

Abstract:

Biomass recalcitrance is one of the major impediments to the success of biofuels. High recalcitrance requires extended pretreatment procedures, high enzyme loading and extended digestion conditions, each adding to overall production cost. The biomass feedstock consists of approximately equal amounts of cellulose, lignin and hemicellulose, the latter consisting of a range

of more complex polysaccharide species that play important roles in cellulose deposition and organization. In this work, we are exploring two principles for achieving improved feedstock materials based on genetically manipulating hemicellulose production in the plant material: (1) The effects of the hemicellulose component on cellulose microfibril organization and hence on overall biomass recalcitrance, and (2) the overproduction and deposition of an easily degradable hemicellulose to improve biomass glucose yields. In one study, we manipulate xylan formation during secondary cell wall formation and document altered cellulose microfilbril organization and improved enzymatically digestibility as a consequence. Some of these have the advantage of being genetically dominant, stackable with other favorable biomass traits and having a minimal impact on plant growth and physiology. A second line

of research involves over production of mixed-linked glucan, an all glucose cell wall polymer, in grass stem pith cells. In this case, the hemicellulose functions as storage compound for fixed carbon, a mechanism that seems to already be in place in the plant. Mixedlinked glucan is highly soluble and easily enzymatically degradable. By increasing the carbon storages in this form, more glucose is released under milder processing conditions.

Sally krigstin

University of Toronto, Canada

Title: Storage activity in the woody biomass supply chain: Mitigating GHG emissions and biomass degradation

Time : 15:50-16:10

Biography:

Dr. Krigstin’s research interests are focused on value-added applications for wood and biomass materials as well as by-product streams from related processing industries. Being practical and focused, this research tends to resolve industrial issues in the Forest and Pulp and Paper Industry. Dr. Krigstin has spent many cyears working in the Pulp and Paper Industry and uses her practical knowledge to bring feasible solutions to challenges facing one of Canada’s main manufacturing sectors. The current research on bioenergy centres around characterization of biomass during the natural degradation occurring over storage phase in bioenergy supply chain.

Abstract:

Biomass piles spontaneously combust due to internal heat generation from biological and chemical activity in the woody materials. The biological and chemical activity also causes the breakdown of biomass to greenhouse gasses (GHG’s); this breakdown is further enhanced by rising temperature within the pile. Both the conversion of biomass matter to GHG’s and spontaneous combustion of biomass results in decreased material available for bioenergy generation, resulting in increased cost of storage and decreased efficiency of the biomass supply chain. Small-scale and industrial field trials have led to an improved understanding of the biological and chemical processes that occur in woody biomass piles. Models that simulate GHG generation and temperature changes in stored woody biomass piles have been developed. Current parameters being investigated are moisture content, oxygen levels, pile height and bulk density. Work is being conducted in developing mathematical relationships between the parameters and biomass growth rates. The growth rates are used to predict heat generation and GHG emissions. The model outputs are used to recommend test conditions for storage trials across Canada in order to determine best practices for minimizing GHG emissions and spontaneous combustion. The consolidation of these best practices into a CSA standard will allow for the safe and cost-effective storage of biomass, as it reduces the need for expensive GHG and temperature monitoring while minimizing matter losses. It is the hope that removing this barrier for biomass storage will increase the use of biomass feedstock throughout Canada.

Break:
Networking & Refreshment Break 16:10-16:20 @ Foyer

Biomass | Bioenergy | Session-2

Location: Dorothy

Chair

Vosatka Miroslav

Institute of Botany Czech Academy of Sciences, Czech Republic

Co-Chair

Niclas Scott Bentsen

University of Copenhagen, Denmark

Session Introduction

Adam Campen

Imreys inc., USA

Title: Demonstrating operational stability and high returns on investment using additives in biomass burning power boilers

Time : 16:20-16:40

Biography:

Adam Campen joined Imerys as a Combustion Engineer in 2014. His experience with fuel additives covers a wide range of solid fuels and furnace configurations. Adam has a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a PhD in Engineering Science from Southern Illinois University, where he researched coal and biomass gasification, synthesis gas processes, and fly ash utilization.

Abstract:

Most steam/power producing facilities burning solid fuels encounter slagging, fouling, agglomeration, or corrosion at some point in the life of their units. These effects are a direct result of fuel chemistry and producers are often tied to a fuel. The fuel may be a waste from another on-site process (i.e. stripped bark from a paper mill), a contractual obligation, or a requirement to receive subsidies. In addition to inefficiencies and burdensome cleaning schedules, producers may also have to tolerate frequent unplanned outages; all of which can add up to significant financial loss. Aurora is a portfolio of engineered additives formulated to address the problematic components of ash in solid fuels. Depending on the furnace design and issues faced, the additive may be blown into the furnace or applied directly to the fuel prior to entering the furnace, to optimize performance in problematic areas. The additives are aluminosilicate blends that preferentially react with volatile alkalis (sodium and potassium) at standard furnace temperatures to form higher melting point compounds. This decreases the abundance of molten phases, and lowers the potential for deposits and agglomerates to form. Another mechanism of the additive is to infuse non-cohesive layers between deposited particles, acting as a mechanical barrier which limits densification and eases removal. As a consequence of decreased deposit build-up on tube surfaces, corrosion is significantly reduced. Two recent success stories using Aurora in biomass boilers will be presented: Boiler rating: 2x12.5 steam tons per hour furnace configuration: Grate stoker with fire-tube boiler Fuel: Municipal waste and wood blend main challenges: Superheater fouling and deposition in fire tubes; Boiler rating: 450 steam tons per hour furnace configuration: Circulating fluidized bed fuel: Bark and petcoke blend main challenges: Unstable operation and loop seal plugging.

Christina Dorado

USDA-ARS, USA

Title: Steam Explosion for the extraction of sugars, pectic hydrocolloids, phenolics, flavonoids and oils from Citrus sinensis

Time : 16:40-17:00

Biography:

Dorado is a research chemist for the Citrus and Other Subtropical Products Research Unit located at the US Horticultural Research Laboratory (USHRL). She is currently working on various collaborative projects with USHRL scientists implementing steam explosion technology on sweet orange, grapefruit and processed lime peel. She has interests in implementing steam explosion technology on other Florida crops including sugar beets, olive leaves and banana plant residues. She is a Member of the Farm2Fly working group which explores the potential of utilizing locally grown sugar beets to create sustainable jet fuel. She has over four years of experience in biomass valorization methods including thermochemical, high pressure and catalytic processes for the conversion of biomass

Abstract:

Statement of the Problem: 95 percent of oranges harvested in the state of Florida are used for juice processing. Citrus processing waste (CPW) is 44% of the fruit mass wet. Currently, processors convert most of the CPW to animal feed pellets and molasses which results in small to negative profit margins due to the energy consumed in the process. CPW contains sugars, pectin, phenolics,

flavonoids and oil that can be extracted and converted to value added products to increase the overall value of the fruit. The US Horticultural Research Laboratory has completed extensive research on the use of steam explosion technology for the extraction of these valuable components of CPW. To date this work has focused on a narrow range of temperatures and hold times and in many cases only monitored the effects on only some of the components from CPW.

Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: In this work we intend to investigate the effect of steam explosion using three different temperatures (130oC, 150oC and 170oC) and various holds times (1,2,4 and 8 minutes) on the two major varieties of CPW from juicing oranges (Valencia and Hamlin) to determine the optimum conditions for the extraction of sugars, phenolics, pectin and limonene from CPW. This work is necessary for determining the conditions for optimizing the extraction of the valuable components found in CPW based on the variety of orange being processed and the compounds of interest for isolation in a comprehensive manner.

Conclusion & Significance: Maximization of the amount of fructose and glucose from CPW required, on average, higher temperatures and longer hold times than sucrose. The concentration of the flavonoid hesperidin increased with increasing temperature and hold time. Pectic hydrocolloids were recovered in greater amounts at higher temperatures but shorter hold times.

Serpil Ã–zmÄ±hÃ§Ä±

Dokuz EylÃ¼l University, Turkey

Title: Evaluation of rise husk for bio-hydrogen production

Time : 17:00-17:20

Biography:

Serpil Ozmihci has completed her PhD in Dokuz Eylul University in 2005. She is a Assistant Professor in Environmental Engineering Department of Dokuz Eylul

University. She has published nearly 20 articles related to biofuels reasearch.

Abstract:

Fossil fuels do not meet needs of increasing energy demands and bring along as well as the climate change, global warming, environmental issues, such as the deterioration of air quality. Bio-hydrogen production from organic wastes is an attractive approach, since it can remove organic biomass while simultaneously producing clean hydrogen energy. The EU target till 2020 is to provide 20% energy from renewable energy sources of the total within the use of 10% renewable energy sources in transport rather than the use of petrol and diesel. Among these resources it counts wastes, residues, non-food cellulosic materials and lignocellulosic materials. In achieving the goals of Europe; bio-hydrogen production from waste sources has gained importance in recent years. It stands out as one of the potential responses that could form the backbone of green technology as well as provides to achieve sustainable development, renewable energy use, mitigation of the effects greenhouse gases, high energy value (122 kJ g-1), and from environmental point of view waste reduction and recycling. Rice-husk as a lignocellulosic waste can be utilized for bio-hydrogen production. In this study different rice husk concentrations was subjected to batch dark fermentation for bio-hydrogen production. 310 ml serum bottles were used in mesophilic and static conditions. Effects of substrate concentration (1-20 gdw) on the rate and yield of bio-hydrogen formation were investigated in solid state fermentation. The highest CHF (76 ml) were obtained with 15 gdw substrate concentration. Butyric acid was the main volatile fatty acid produced in the fermentation media. pH varied between 6.5-

5.5. Soluble sugars were around 200-400 mg L-1 and the main monosaccharide in the fermentation media were found as glucose and cellobiose. The highest yield (11 ml H2 g-1 substrate) was obtained with 2 gdw and specific hydrogen production rate was obtained with 15 gdw.

Vosatka Miroslav

Institute of Botany Czech Academy of Sciences, Czech Republic

Title: Ecological management of fast growing trees plantations and biorefinery of added value products from biomass

Time : 17:20:17:40

Biography:

Vosatka Miroslav has his expertise in soil microbiology, plant ecology and in the practical applications of biofertilizers in plant production. He has been working at

the Institute of Botany, CAS for the last 30 years he is also an External Lecturer at Charles University and Masaryk University. For several years he has been a fellow at the International Institute of Biotechnology and Kent Science Park in the UK. He has a long term experience in collaborations in organic agriculture and

biofuel plantations worldwide.

Abstract:

During the last 10 years an intensive research activities regarding cultivation of the fast growing trees (poplar, wilow and paulownia) and refinery of added value products have been accomplished within the Centre of Competence Biorefinery project held among several Institutions and private companies in the Czech Republic. Preceding that a 5 years study was conducted to find out whether poplar and willow plantations can be established as an apart from biofuel production the plantations had an added value in increased capability of cover crop to decontaminate polluted soil. Then a 5 years study was conducted to establish the best cultivation practice including fertilizing with sewage sludge and wood ash or bio fertilizing with mycorrhizas and endophytic fungi or PGPB. Manuals for the best cultivation practice were developed for poplar, willow and paulownia plantations. An added value product from plantations was designed (e.g. patented game repellent product from poplar buds, use of edges of tree plantations for production of nutraceutical plants etc.). Sustainability and economic feasibility of biofuel plantations on marginal land can be significantly increased by assignment of other expected ecosystem services such as decontamination of pollutants or by designing the co-products with higher added value that can be produced alongside on biofuel plantations.

Janaina Camile Pasqual

Pontifical Catholic University of ParanÃ¡, Brazil

Title: Water-Energy-Food Nexus: Biogas background and perspectives for Brazil and the United States by 2050

Time : 17:40-17:55

Biography:

Janaina Camile Pasqual has completed her Masters in Urban Management and Biogas Issues and currently pursuing PhD at the Pontifical Catholic University of

Parana, in partnership with the University of Arizona, USA. She is a Consultant of the International Center of Renewable Energies/Biogas and International Center of Hydroinformatics, Brazil. She has published more than 10 papers in reputed journals and has participated international committees related to water-energy-nexus and biogas.

Abstract:

Increasing population and industrialization are augmenting the demand for water, energy and food, especially in developing countries. In this context, the analysis of these three elements has gained increasing attention globally in research, business and policy spheres. This article will provide an analysis of this nexus for Brazil and the United States, using current and predicted scenario for 2050. Contemplating the relevance of renewable sources of energy to overcome these challenges and diversify the energy matrix in both countries, the study will also present the biogas potential for these countries, including best practices and case studies implemented in this area. Both countries have similar scenarios regarding the opportunities for use of this energy source are among the five countries with the largest population and territorial extent, leaders in food production, large energy consumers and are among the countries with greater availability of water in the world. It will be concluded that biogas can provide multiple economic, environmental and social benefits, such as electrical, thermal and vehicular energy, high-quality biofertilizer, reduction of odor and pathogenic vectors in the farms, decrease of ground and surface water pollution, promotion of new income for the farmers, reduction the greenhouse gases emissions, among others.

Naz Orang

University of Toronto, Canada

Title: Predictive statistical model for optimized biomass boiler operation

Time : 17:55-18:10

Biography:

Naz Orang is a PhD candidate in Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry at the University of Toronto. Her main research focus is on biomass combustion

and biomass boiler optimization. Her research is under the supervision of Prof. Honghi Tran in the Chemical Recovery Research Group at UofT’s Pulp and Paper

Center. Her practical research approach has made her work uniquely applicable to industrial applications and their challenges.

Abstract:

Biomass boilers provide pulp mills with one third of their required energy in the form of superheated steam. The biomass fuel in these types of boilers is conventionally called hog fuel, which is a mixture of different types of wood waste found on the mill site. Biomass is considered a carbon neutral fuel and is therefore sustainable and provides a feasible way for mills to dispose of their wood waste while harvesting its energy content. Burning wood waste in biomass boilers is an economical and environmentally sustainable way for pulp mills to remain competitive in today’s challenging market. The variability of hog fuel makes stable and optimized boiler operation a challenge. Since the quality of the fuel is constantly changing, there is a need to detect sub optimal operation and to mitigate the adverse effects of fuel variability as early as possible. For this reason, a predictive statistical model is presented which enables the detection of process upsets caused by changes in hog fuel quality before these changes affect steam production. An OPLS (orthogonal projection to latent structures) model was built for operating data from a stoker-grate biomass boiler in a Canadian pulp mill. Biomass boiler operating data is highly

interconnected and correlated, and OPLS is a predictive projection method which is well suited in dealing with these issues. The thermal performance of the boiler, which is the amount of steam produced per amount of biomass burnt, is modeled as the target variable using operating parameters such as inlet air flow rate and temperature, flue gas flow rate, temperature and composition as predictor variables. The model enables the prediction of the onset of a process upset, which will lead to a decrease in thermal performance and the contributing factors to the upset are also identified by the model which can be used to mitigate the situation and increase thermal performance back to optimal values. This way, biomass combustion for the purpose of steam production can be carried out with minimal co-combustion of fossil fuels.

Augstina E.phram

Centre RAPSODEE, France

Title: Hydrogen chloride removal from wood waste-derived syngas using inorganic sorbents

Time : 18:10-18:25

Biography:

Augustina EPHRAIM obtained a Masters degree in Chemical Engineering from Imperial College London in 2012 and has recently completed her 3 year PhD programme in Process and Environmental Engineering at Ecole des Mines d’Albi in France.

Abstract:

Wood waste is an attractive feedstock for syngas production via pyro-gasification, due to its good fuel properties, abundant supply, and low recycling rate. However, wood waste may contain significant levels of chlorine, which may form hydrogen chloride (HCl) in gasifiers, which in turn may cause corrosion in syngas end-use devices, as well as health and environmental problems. A promising technique to remove HCl from syngas is by dry adsorption of HCl onto solid inorganic sorbents. In this paper, we present an experimental study on the adsorption potential of four sorbents: two industrial solid residues– CCW-S and CCW-D, and two commercial sorbents – Bicar and Lime. The first set of adsorption tests were performed using a gas mixture of 200 ppm HCl in nitrogen (HCl/N2) at ambient conditions. The results revealed that Bicar was the best performing sorbent with an average breakthrough time of 66 h and a HCl adsorption capacity of 27 wt%, whereas the performance of the solid residues was lower (e.g. 7.8 h and 4 wt% for CCW-S). When the adsorption tests were conducted with a simulated HCl/ Syngas atmosphere, a significant decrease in sorbent performance was observed which indicated that inhibitory interactions occured between syngas and the sorbents, in relation to HCl adsorption. Our results reveal a promising opportunity to valorize industrial residues as cheap and effective sorbents for the removal of HCl in syngas. This will enable a wider market penetrating of wood waste-derived syngas, while meeting the quality requirements of increasingly strict environmental regulations.

Rajesh MUNIRATHINAM

Centre RAPSODEE, France

Title: Calcium phosphates as a novel support material for catalysis in Fischer-Tropsh synthesis

Time : 18:25-18:40

Biography:

Rajesh Munirathinam has completed his PhD from University of Twente and his postdoctoral studies from IFP Energies Nouvelles. Presently, he is working on developing efficient Fischer-Tropsch catalysts as a research engineer in the group of Prof. Ange Nzihou at RAPSODEE Reserch Centre in Ecole des Mines d’Albi.

He has published about 9 papers in reputed journals and he is very passionate about the catalysis research field.

Abstract:

Increasing global demand for a decreased dependence on petroleum for the production of fuels and chemicals in recent years has called for the revival of interest towards Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS). FTS is a heterogeneous catalytic process for the production of hydrocarbon fuels or chemicals from synthesis gas (CO+H2). Synthesis gas (syn gas) is generally derived from non-petroleum feedstocks such as natural gas, coal, or biomass. Growing awareness towards the valorization of biomass for sustainable environment has augmented the production of syn gas, which can be further processed using FTS to produce value added biofuels and chemicals. FT catalysts usually consist of Co or Fe nanoparticles, which are dispersed on a support material such as alumina, silica, titanium oxide, zirconium oxide, niobium oxide, SiC, or carbon. Tuning of acid - base properties of these conventional supports is not very trivial. In recent years, calcium phosphates (CaP), has been investigated as porous support. The presence of phosphate groups in CaP not only stabilize the structure of active sites, but also allow for easy tuning of acid-base properties by varying the calcium/phosphate ratio. This property of CaP would enable to tune the selectivity of the product distribution in FTS. Further, industrially used conventional supports like alumina and silica display strongmetal support interactions (SMSI); as a result, the reducibility of metallic oxide (e.g. Co3O4) to metallic state (Co) is hindered. However, using CaP as a support SMSI can be minimized drastically. In this study, we investigate for the first time, the textural, structural chemistry and catalytic behavior of a series of CaP-supported cobalt samples in the FTS process. The results of catalytic CO conversion and product selectivity in the FTS obtained by tuning the acid-base properties of the CaP support will be discussed.

Rachna Dhir

University of California Riverside, USA

Title: Comparing pretreatment and subsequent hydrolysis maximum total sugar yielding conditions organosolv pretreatment to CELF pretreated poplar

Time : 18:40-18:55

Biography:

Rachna Dhir is PhD candidate at Chemical and Environmental Engineering, UCR Center for Environmental Research and Technology (CE-CERT). She is a co-author of Mechanisms and characteristics of Biological pretreatment used for lignocellulosic biomass. She also worked as Undergraduate Student Mentor in University of California, Riverside, CA. she is currently primary author of few upcoming publications.

Abstract:

Lignocellulosic biomass consists of strong interlinked components as cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Pretreatment is an important step to recover these structural components from lignocellulosic biomass structure for their higher accessibility during enzymatic hydrolysis stage. Various pretreatments assist disruption of the lignocellulosic structures. However, aqueous pretreatments comes with added advantage of solvent recovery and reuse. Combined sugar yields from pretreatment (Stage 1) and enzymatic hydrolysis (Stage 2) at the end of 7 days used to identify the maximum total glucose and xylose yields for

ethanol organosolv pretreated poplar were compared to the maximum total sugar yielding conditions for THF co-solvent enhanced lignocellulosic fractionated (CELF) pretreated wood. Ethanol organosolv pretreatment applied in this study to identify the maximum total sugar yielding conditions for poplar wood resulted in highest combined total sugar yields of 78.2% at 185°C-15min compared to CELF pretreatment conditions as 160°C-15min illustrating 100% yields at 15mg/g glucan in raw biomass enzyme loading used during hydrolysis stage. Ethanol organosolv pretreated wood showed lower lignin removal of 85% in comparison to the CELF pretreated biomass with over 90% removal during the pretreatment stage. Negligible degradation product formation during CELF pretreatments in comparison to ethanol organosolv makes CELF a desired pretreatment for ethanol fuel production. Focus of the present study is to enumerate the change in yields for the two pretreatments and discuss the advantages of using CELF over organosolv for further insight.

Entrepreneur investment meet | Special session |

Location: Dorothy

Chair

Malgorzata Slupska

POET, USA

Session Introduction

Malgorzata Slupska

POET, USA

Title: Advances in the commercial ethanol production

Time : 11:10-11:30

Biography:

Dr Malgorzata Slupska has completed PhD at the Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics Polish Academy of Sciences at Warsaw, Poland and postdoctoral studies at Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory and University of California Los Angeles, CA. For over 15 years she worked in the area of biofuels at biotech companies (Diversa and Verenium, San Diego, CA), BP Biofuels (San Diego, CA) and currently she is a Lignocellulosic Research Director at POET (Sioux Falls, SD). She has published more than 20 scientific papers and coauthored 12 patents and patent applications.

Abstract:

POET, the world’s largest biofuel producer, is a leader in biorefining through its efficient, vertically integrated approach to production. The 30-year-old company has a network of 27 production facilities with a production capacity of 1.75 billion gallons. POET employs approximately 1,800 team members and in addition to ethanol produces 9 billion pounds of distillers’ dry grains and approximately 550 million pounds of corn oil per year. POET’s mission is to be a good steward of the Earth by converting renewable resources to energy and other valuable goods as effectively as humanly possible. POET is also known for its excellent record of innovation with a “raw starch” process (BPX) being the most widely known. POET, through its joint venture with DSM, also operates a commercial-scale cellulosic ethanol plant in Emmetsburg, Iowa. Project LIBERTY has a 20-25 million gallon capacity. Project LIBERTY is currently ramping up production and has achieved a conversion rate of 70 gallons per ton of biomass. The latest achievements at Project LIBERTY will be further discussed during the meeting.

Jason Bootsma

Flint Hills Resources, USA

Title: Innovation at Flint Hills Resources

Time : 11:30-11:50

Biography:

Jason Bootsma is currently Director of Technology Innovation at Flint Hills Resources.He is Responsible for evaluation and development of new technologies and other sources of competitive advantage for all of Flint Hills' businesses.

Abstract:

Flint Hills Resources, LLC, is a leading refining, chemicals and biofuels company with operations primarily in the Midwest and Texas. Flint Hills Resources’ subsidiaries produce and market gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, asphalt, ethanol, biodiesel, liquefied natural gas, olefins, polymers, intermediate chemicals, as well as base oils, corn oil and dried distillers grain. Flint Hills Resources operates seven corn dry-mill ethanol plants in the Midwest and Southeast. The plants have a combined annual capacity of 820 million gallons of ethanol. The refining business operates refineries in Minnesota (Rosemount) and Texas (Corpus Christi), with a combined crude oil processing capacity of more than 600,000 barrels per day. The petrochemical business includes production facilities in Illinois and Texas. The asphalt business produces and markets product in the Midwest. A subsidiary owns an interest in a lubricants base oil facility in Louisiana. The company is based in Wichita, Kansas, and its more than 5,000 employees strive to create value for customers and society. Flint Hills Resources does not have a formal R&D capability; the company relies upon an open innovation model. Flint Hills’ culture is based on Principled Entrepreneurship™, which means it combines a commitment to integrity and compliance with a focus on innovation to anticipate market changes – faster than our competitors – and produce products that make lives better. Employees drive the innovation that has resulted in developing value-added fuels and new technologies, while achieving safety, efficiency and environmental protection goals.

Brooks Henningsen

Mascoma LLC, USA

Title: Improving first and second generation ethanol production with biotech yeast

Time : 11:50-12:10

Biography:

Brooks Henningsen has his expertise in molecular biology and genetic engineering. He joined Mascoma, LLC in 2012 following the completion of his Master of Science degree in Biological Sciences. Since joining Mascoma he has worked towards the development of advanced yeast strains and technologies for use in the cellulosic ethanol industry. These technologies include robust C5 sugar utilization and the anaerobic conversion of acetate to value added end-products. He has also spear-headed the improvement of molecular biology techniques at Mascoma to increase strain engineering throughput and efficiency.

Abstract:

Currently, the majority of liquid transportation fuel is derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource. Commercial ethanol production is a proven technology and serves as a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. However, the operating margins of ethanol plants are narrow and significant efforts in research and development have been undertaken to improve the economic viability of the industry. Biotech yeast represent a drop-in solution that can increase ethanol yields and minimize costs without the need for further capital or process modifications. Using advanced molecular biology and genetic techniques Mascoma LLC has successfully created and commercialized a series of bio-tech yeast for use in the corn ethanol industry that minimizes external enzyme addition and increases ethanol product yield. Mascoma has also developed products for the Brazilian sugar cane industry and emerging 1.5 and 2.0 cellulosic ethanol processes. While these products have already demonstrated great progress in the field, vast opportunities still exist to further increase the sustainability of fuel ethanol production and increase profitability through the generation of ever improving bio-tech yeast strains.

Herman Pel

DSM, Netherlands

Title: Optimizing enzyme cocktails and process conditions for production of cellulosic ethanol

Time : 12:10-12:30

Biography:

Herman Pel studied Biology at the University of Utrecht, The Netherlands. In 1992 he completed his PhD on biogenesis of mitochondria of the baker’s yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae at the University of Amsterdam. He received a long-term EMBO fellowship to continue his work on mitochondrial genetics at the Institut Genetique Moleculaire at the University of Paris-South, Orsay, France. In 1995 he became Research Fellow at the department of Biochemistry of the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand, where he worked on bacterial and mitochondrial protein synthesis. In 1998 he joined DSM where he currently holds a position as Principal Scientist microbial strain development at the DSM Biotechnology Center (DBC) in Delft. Within DSM he has been involved in the development of numerous enzyme and metabolite production processes. At present he is scientific leader of DSM’s enzymes for biofuels R&D program..

Abstract:

Royal DSM is a global science-based company active in health, nutrition and materials. By connecting its unique competences in life sciences and materials sciences DSM is driving economic prosperity, environmental progress and social advances to create sustainable value. DSM delivers innovative solutions that nourish, protect and improve performance in global markets such as food and dietary supplements, personal care, feed, medical devices, automotive, paints, electrical and electronics, life protection, alternative energy and bio-based materials. DSM and its associated companies deliver annual net sales of about €10 billion with approximately 25,000 employees. DSM’s biotechnology cluster roots back to 1869 when Jacques C. van Marken, an innovative businessman believing in science, founded NG&SF (Dutch Yeast & Spirits Factory) to produce baker’s yeast and potable alcohol. Since 2014 DSM is, via its joint venture POET-DSM Advanced Biofuels, again involved in ethanol production. The joint venture operates a commercial-scale cellulosic ethanol plant in Emmetsburg, Iowa. Project LIBERTY has a 20-25 million gallon capacity and is currently ramping up production. The role of DSM’s advanced cellulosic enzyme cocktails and yeasts is to enable the bio-ethanol industry to diversify from starch crops to lignocellulosic agricultural residues. DSM has

developed robust enzyme cocktails and yeasts to reach the ambitious ethanol cost reduction targets. This presentation will highlight how combined efforts in enzyme discovery, yeast fermentation and application process development were used to make lignocellulosic bioethanol a commercial reality.

Sarah Teter

Novozymes, USA

Title: Customized enzymes and robust yeast- Novozymesâ€™ solutions for cellulosic biorefineries

Time : 12:30-12:50

Biography:

Dr. Sarah A. Teter is Global Manager of Biomass R&D at Novozymes. Teter’s R&D teams have had a significant impact on reducing costs for production of cellulosic ethanol. Since 2001, when Novozymes initiated focused work on delivering enzymes for biomass conversion, she has been a key part of innovative research programs developing improved enzymes (cellulases, hemicellulases, and auxiliary enzymes). Teter has extensive experience in coordinating multidisciplinary research teams, as well as customer-facing enzyme application projects. Her technical training includes post-doctorate studies at University of Michigan (1999-2001) and Max-Planck Institute for Biochemistry (1997-1999), a Ph.D. from UC Davis (1997).

Abstract:

In recent years, several industry front-runners have ramped up cellulosic ethanol production in commercial scale biorefineries. Novozymes’ Cellic® enzyme products are used in most of these plants. A diverse set of biomass feedstocks and fundamentally unique technologies in the marketplace have led Novozymes to deploy tailored enzyme cocktails, with biocatalysts designed to

meet specific customer needs. Building on success in the enzyme area, Novozymes has more recently launched Cellerity® – a yeast product specifically optimized to use sugars derived from biomass. Product robustness is critical in this industry, and both product lines have been developed to facilitate operation in relevant full-scale conditions. Novozymes is committed to continuing close collaboration with leaders in the biomass biorefining industry to further enable growth of the industry

Break:
Lunch Break: Lunch Break 12:50-13:30 @ Foyer

Special talk

Location: Dorothy

Session Introduction

Jeff Passmore

Passmore Group Inc., Canada

Title: Getting to Scale: Choosing the right financing tool, and the right location

Time : 13:30-13:55

Biography:

Abstract:

Advnaced biofuels | Biorefineries | Bioethanol

Location: Dorothy

Chair

Wolfgang Bauer

Michigan State University, USA

Co-Chair

Kesen Ma

University of Waterloo, Canada

Session Introduction

Wolfgang Bauer

Michigan State University, USA

Title: Comparison of bio-ethanol and biogas: Net energy ratio, total yield, and greenhouse gas emissions

Time : 13:55-14:15

Biography:

Wolfgang Bauer is a University Distinguished Professor at Michigan State University (MSU). He received his Ph.D. in physics from the University of Giessen in Germany in 1987. After a one-year postdoctoral appointment at the California Institute of Technology, he joined the faculty at MSU in 1988. From 2001 to 2013 he served as chairperson of the Department of Physics of Astronomy, and in 2009 he became the Founding Director of the Institute for Cyber-Enabled Research. He has consulted on energy issues for hedge funds and oil companies, and he is co-owner of several companies in the renewable energy sector.

Abstract:

Liquid and gaseous biofuels can have a significant impact on the reduction of fossil transportation fuels and thus make a large contribution to reducing global CO2 emissions. Examples for these biofuels include ethanol produced from sugarcane, sweet sorghum, corn, switchgrass, and other energy crops, but also biogas/methane produced from the same energy crops or algae cultures. However, it is of fundamental importance to consider all fossil fuel based inputs into the biofuel production in a life-cycle analysis. In addition, we need to optimize the total yield of biofuels per area of energy crops in order to minimize the conflict of fuel versus food, we need to reduce the use of artificial fertilizers as much as possible, and we need to minimize the net emissions of greenhouse gases in the biofuel production process. In this presentation I will evaluate different biofuels and compare them to each other, taking all of the above considerations into account.

Daniel thran

Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ), Germany

Title: Biofuels between manifold expectations - How to assess their potential for sustainable transportation?

Time : 14:15-14:35

Biography:

Prof. Daniela Thrän studied environmental engineering at the Technical University of Berlin. After completion, she obtained her PhD at the University of Weimar, Germany. Daniela Thrän is an accomplished researcher, having held positions at both the University of Potsdam and Stuttgart. In 2003, she became the Department Head of “Bioenergy Systems” at DBFZ - Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum gGmbH (former: IE Leipzig gGmbH). In 2011 she also took the lead of the newly established department "Bioenergy" at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research GmbH (UFZ). Professor Thrän is currently leading a multidisciplinary team of about 50 scientists, working in a broad spectrum of interests, investigating different national and international research projects focusing on areas of; biomass potentials, bioenergy pathways and their assessment, standardisation of solid biofuels material flow management and sustainability assessment. She is the author of more than 100 publications in the bioenergy sector.

Abstract:

Biofuels have been introduced 25 years ago and show constant increase globally. Today many biofuel technologies and concepts are developed and discussed to supply different transport sectors. They differ in feedstock, conversion technologies, levels of development, product quality and availability on the market as well. In 2016, the global market volume contained 2,086 PJ of bioethanol (from sugar and starch), 926 PJ of biodiesel and 177 PJ of HVO. Additionally biomethane, DME and MeOH and bioethanol from lignocellulosic materials are currently introduced into the market. Most biofuels are used in road transport sector. In parallel there is an intensive debate on relevant sustainability dimensions for the assessment of biofuels in general (i.e., GBEP, RED etc.) and it is well known, that the frame condition from support schemes, the specific demand from different transport sectors (road, ship, aviation) and the development of feedstock markets will influence the future feasibility substantially. With regard to those expectations, the assessment of the potential for current and future biofuel provision concepts has to consider different possible futures, which will be figured in a scenario approach. Based on defined expectations and framework conditions each scenario different biofuel concepts are analyzed, in particular with respect to their technical performance, potential for greenhouse gas emission reduction and their market potentials considering different prices for feedstock, energy and carbon certificates. Finally, we will provide the relevant driver for market implementation of the different biofuels for both, the short term perspective till 2020 and for the longer term

Shingjiang Jessie Lue

Chang Gung University, Taiwan

Title: Direct ethanol fuel cell performance using polyzenzimidazole/graphene oxide nanosheets electrolyte membrane

Time : 14:35-14:55

Biography:

Shingjiang Jessie Lue has obtained her BS and MS degrees from National Taiwan University, Taiwan and PhD degree of Biotechnology Engineering from University of Missouri-Columbia, USA in 1990. Her research interest focuses on the development of high-performance materials for separation, energy and biotechnology applications. She has published nearly 80 SCI papers and 2 book chapters, given 140 conference presentations and applied 2 patents.

Abstract:

Direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs) have become a promising power generation technology due to the simple systems without the need of reformers. It is especially suitable for portable, mobile and transportation applications. Ethanol is an environmentally friendly fuel and possesses higher energy density than methanol (8.00 vs. 6.09 kWh kg–1). Ethanol can be easily produced in large quantities from biological processing of agriculture products and it is considered a renewable energy source. In this presentation, the developments of membrane electrolyte and electro-catalyst are presented. The design principle and the structure-property relationship between materials and cell performance are discussed. The best results from the author’s group are 184 mW/cm2 using Pt-based catalysts and 100 mW/cm2 using non-Pt catalysts, along with polybenzimidazole/graphene oxide composites. These values are significantly higher than literature data.

Ian Rowe

U.S. Department of Energy, USA

Title: Engineered carbon cycling strategies for advanced net-zero carbon Biofuels

Biography:

Dr. Ian Rowe is a Technology Manager with the Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) at the US Department of Energy. Working out of DOE Headquarters in Washington DC, Ian is responsible for a number of projects within BETO’s Conversion program. His focus is primarily on biological strategies for generating biofuels and bioproducts, concentrating in molecular biology, organism development, and biophysics. Ian is active in BETO’s efforts in carbon efficiency, the feedstock/ conversion interface, and synthetic biology. He is a recipient of a STEM Presidential Management Fellowship. Prior to DOE, Ian received his PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Maryland for his work on bacterial membrane biophysics and a BS in Biochemistry from Millersville University

Abstract:

Large-scale and rapid deployments of renewable power such as wind and solar are driving down both the carbon intensity and price of power. The transition to renewable power will help decarbonize every sector of the economy, which will increase environmental sustainability, energy security and economic competitiveness. However, grid integration challenges and disproportionate renewable power generation and use are preventing the most effective utilization of these resources and technologies to decarbonize fuel reliant sectors, such as the transportation sector, are not as advanced or readily deployable as wind and solar. Therefore, the U.S Department of Energy and its Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) are seeking to exploit the deployment of cheaper and cleaner renewable power to address these challenges and fundamentally change how organic carbon is synthesized from carbon dioxide. Specifically, one strategy that BETO is pursuing is re-imagining the carbon cycle without photosynthesis and it is exploring technologies that can efficiently leverage renewable power to productively utilize carbon dioxide to generate relevant organic chemical intermediates. This presentation will outline the social, economic and environmental implications of decoupling the production of renewable biofuels from the land sector by industrializing the non-photosynthetic conversion of carbon dioxide to useful products. Various

technologies and specific system configurations to enable enhanced carbon cycling to offer land-sparing organic feedstock for the advanced bioeconomy and to create tools that leverage renewable power to increase overall system efficiency, manage carbon, address climate change and support advanced bioproduct pathways for new economic opportunities will be discussed. Also, relevant organic intermediates, based on thermodynamic efficiencies and biological upgrading potential will be examined and contextualized in terms of associated pathway scalability. Finally, BETO’s efforts to exploit inexpensive power to supplement or reduce land use while generating low-carbon renewable biofuels as well as future opportunities and directions will be outlined.

Leandro Soter de Mariz e Miranda

UFRJ, Brazil

Title: Making a bridge between biomass and hydrocarbon in a standard refinery

Time : 14:55-15:15

Biography:

I Graduated in Pharmacy in 2001 and obtained my PhD in 2007 working on the synthesis of natural products. After obtaining my PhD I moved to the Pharmochemical Industry to work on the P&D department in nucleoside chemistry, searching for new synthetic strategies for the synthesis of clinically important nucleosides. In 2011 I Joined the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and an assistant Professor. In 2011 I went to the University Of Cergy-Pontoise, France, as an Invited Professor to work on Nucleosides against HCV. My research interests are Biocatalysis, Nucleoside and Carbohydrate Chemistry. In 2012 the interest on carbohydrate chemistry led me to work with Lignocellulosic Biomass, in a project with the aim to transform it, in order to allow its introduction into the FCC Unit for the synthesis of green hydrocarbons.

Abstract:

A conventional refinery is based on mature processes that obtain standard products from a large variety of non- renewable feeds. Despite enormous benefits to modern civilization, the adopted production and consumption patterns paradoxically put us at environmental risk. Therefore it is mandatory a paradigm shift to decrease the carbon footprint without reducing the energy access to people. Biomass is composed of functionalized biopolymers (lignin-cellulose) based on sugars- and phenol-derivatives. On the other hand, refinery processes have been designed to operate on poorly reactive compounds like hydrocarbons. The bridge between these two remarkable worlds was archived in two steps: 1- by transforming the biomass into a bio-crude, which was produced by ketalyzation in acetone [1, 2] and acetylation reactions in acetic anhydride [3] under mild temperature conditions (around 1000C). This black bio-crude (density 1.0-1.3 gmL-1 and Typical CHO composition of 60, 8 and 32 respectively) is chemically distinct of any other bio-feed so far. 2- -The transformation of bio-crude and model compounds by the fluid catalytic cracking and hydrotreatment into monoaromatic and saturated hydrocarbons respectively [4]. Herein the results of the fluidized bed pilot plant in laboratory scale of both model test and bio-crude are presented. A representative ketal- derivative,1,2:5,6-di-O-isopropyliden-α-D-glucofuranose (DX) mixture up to 50% in n-hexane achieved three main goals: small coke formation, remarkable selectivity to hydrocarbons and slight improvement in n-hexane conversion as presented in Table1. Moreover, no oxygenated compounds were observed in the liquid phase, thus resulting in a drop-in fraction in the fuel pool.

Wensheng qin

Lakehead University, Canada

Title: Effective microbial production of 2,3-butanediol from Biodiesel derived crude glycerol

Time : 15:35-15:55

Biography:

Wensheng Qin has received his BSc and MSc in Agriculture and Biotechnology from Zhejiang University in China. He has earned his PhD in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology in 2005 from Queen's University in Canada. He further received Postdoctoral training at Stanford University in Biochemistry and Biotechnology. During his studies, he was awarded multiple fellowships and scholarships such as NSERC Fellowship and Ontario Graduate Scholarship. He has also worked in several other institutions including University of Toronto and University of Waterloo in Canada, Kansas State University and Yale University in USA, National Polytechnic Institute of Mexico. He has published 98 peer-reviewed papers. He has extensive research experience and holds expertise in the fields of biorefining, biofuels, microbial engineering, molecular biology and biochemistry.

Abstract:

Biodiesel, a renewable biofuel, is produced from vegetable oils and animal fats by transesterification. The booming of biodiesel industry all over the world has led to generate a large amount (10% v/v) of crude glycerol, created an oversupply problem. The high volume of this non bio-degradable glycerol is becoming of a great environmental and economic concern for the development of biodiesel industries. Herein, we report the product concentrations of major metabolic products attained from pure and crude glycerol biotransformation process using an adapted mutant strain Klebsiella variicola SW3. Real-time qPCR and glycerol dehydrogenase (GDH) enzyme activity assay revealed that the overexpression of GDH gene resulted in an increased GDH enzyme activity, led to a markedly boosted 2,3-butanediol (2,3-BD) production. Based on these results, the SW3 strain obtained from wild type strain Klebsiella variicola SRP3 displayed a 1.39-fold increased 2,3-BD production of 82.5 g/L from 59.3 g/L, yielding 0.62 g/g using pure glycerol. However, in a batch culture, a final 33.5 g/L of 2,3-BD was accumulated within 96 hours from 50 g/L glycerol. Moreover, the strain SW3 withstanding high concentration (200 g/L) of crude glycerol displayed 64.9 and 29.25 g/L 2,3-BD in fed-batch and batch cultures respectively. These results indicated that our newly developed adapted mutant can tolerate high concentration of glycerol, have a high glycerol utilization rate and high product yield of 2,3-BD. It is demonstrated that the mutant strain K. variicola SW3 has an ability to produce fewer co-products at trace concentrations at higher glycerol concentrations and could be a potential candidate for 2,3-DB production in an industrial bioconversion process.Therefore, this bioconversion of crude glycerol to 2,3-BD; a valueadded green product with potential industrial applications as a liquid fuel or fuel additive would represent a remarkable alternative to add value to the biodiesel production helping biodiesel industries development.

Break:
Networking & Refreshment Break 15:55-16:05 @ Foyer

Kesen Ma

University of Waterloo, Canada

Title: Thermostable pyruvate decarboxylases are key enzymes in the alcohol fermentation at high temperatures

Time : 16:05-16:25

Biography:

Kesen Ma is a Microbiologist, graduated from the Department of Biology, Wuhan University. After graduated with an MSc degree from the Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Science (CAS), he went to Germany as a Max-Planck-Institute Fellow and obtained his PhD from Philipps-University Marburg. He worked as a Research Associate at the University, and a Postdoctoral Fellow and then an Assistant Research Scientist at the University of Georgia, United States. He became a Graduate Faculty at the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Georgia. He is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Waterloo, Canada. His current research has a focus on enzymology, metabolism, bio-processing and biotechnological applications of hyperthermophilic microorganisms.

Abstract:

Many anaerobic hyperthermophiles can grow on carbohydrates and peptides and produce ethanol as an end product. Alcohol dehydrogenases (ADHs) catalyze the final step of the ethanol production from acetaldehyde; however, there is a lack of understanding of the enzyme catalyzing the production of acetaldehyde at high temperatures. No homolog genes are found to encode commonly-known pyruvate decarboxylase (PDC) and CoA-dependent aldehyde dehydrogenase respectively. Anovel bifunctional PDC is present in Pyrococcus furiosus, which catalyzes both oxidative (pyruvate ferredoxin oxidoreductase, POR) and non-oxidative (PDC) decarboxylation of pyruvate, producing acetyl-CoA and acetaldehyde, respectively. Our results showed that the PDC activities were also present in hyperthermophilic archaeon Thermococcus guaymasensis (Tg) and bacteria Thermotoga maritima (Tm) and Thermotoga hypogea (Th). Coenzyme A or desulfo-CoA was required for the PDC activity. PDC and POR activities were co-eluted during different steps of chromatography. All three purified enzymes from Tg, Tm and Th were revealed to be a hetero-tetrameric protein using SDS-PAGE. The purified Tg enzyme had PDC activity of 3.8±0.22 U mg-1 with optimal pH-value of 9.5. The optimum pH for both TmPDC and ThPDC was 8.4, while specific activities of PDCs were 1.9±0.4 U/mg and 1.4±0.2 U/mg for Th and Tm, respectively. Another PDC activity (25.94±0.6 U/ mg) was also identified in T. maritima, which also had acetohydroxyacid synthase (AHAS) activity. It was concluded that the bifunctional PDC and POR enzyme is present in hyperthermophilic archaeon T. guaymasensis and bacteria T. maritima and T. hypogea, and the bifunctional PDC and AHAS is also present in T. maritima. These bifunctionalities are likely a common property of the same type of enzymes in hyperthermophiles. Further studies of these thermostable PDC enzymes are required for bioengineering a more efficient alcohol fermentation process at high temperatures.

Nuwan Sella Kapu

University of British Columbia, Canada

Title: Bamboo: A fast-growing feedstock for a biorefinery

Time : 16:25-16:45

Biography:

Nuwan Sella Kapu has more than fifteen years of experience in the plant sciences and biomass processing. He obtained his Ph.D. (2006) in Plant Biology specializing in cell wall biology and biochemistry from the Pennsylvania State University, University Park. In 2007, he joined Expansyn Technologies, Inc., a startup company, as Principal Scientist to spearhead research and development programs to commercialize plant cell wall proteins to produce biofuels. From 2010- 2015 Nuwan led research efforts in ethanol fermentation and bamboo pulping with Drs. Jack Saddler, Mark Martinez and Rodger Beatson at UBC. He later joined FPInnovations as a Scientist in the Chemical Pulping-Process Engineering group and worked on mill-targeted, applied research programs in kraft pulping. His current research at UBC is focused on developing technologies for bio-products and biorefineries

Abstract:

Bamboo is a fast-growing species that is widely distributed in many parts of the world, especially in Asia, with India and China leading in acreage. Moreover, over 1200 species of bamboo have been reported indicating the existence of

remarkable genetic diversity. Over the past decade or so there have been increased efforts to develop bamboo as a feedstock for conventional pulp and paper products, dissolving pulp, and cellulosic ethanol. However, its high silica content is a challenge for bamboo processing. Consequences of high silica such as scale build-up in evaporators are well acknowledged in the pulp and paper industry. Recently it was reported that silica also affects enzymatic hydrolysis during cellulosic ethanol production. We investigated alkali-and acid-based chemical methods and mechanical treatments to develop technologies for using bamboo as a feedstock in biorefinery applications. Treatment with NaOH at moderate temperatures led to the removal of more than 95% of silica in bamboo. We successfully integrated this method to a modified kraft pulping process scheme to co-produce dissolving grade pulp, lignin, cellulosic ethanol, and silica at 32%, 20%, 9%, and 1% (% wt. on input dry bamboo), respectively,

at lab-scale. Further studies have shown that NaOH treatment can be bolted-on as a unit operation in several approaches for cellulosic ethanol production from bamboo. On the acidic treatment front, we improved the conventional pre-hydrolysis kraft pulping process by incorporating mechanical refining and xylanase treatment to produce dissolving grade pulp. Collectively, these results demonstrate the feasibility of using bamboo as a promising feedstock for a biorefinery.

Franklin Kalu

Heriot-Watt University, UK

Title: The potential black liquor has to improve the sustainability of kraft process if used as feedstock for kraft biorefinery

Time : 16:45-17:00

Biography:

Franklin Kalu has his first degree in Bio-resource Engineering, and holds a Masters degree in Renewable Energy Engineering. Recently he is a PhD student at Heriot Watt University. His research interests are focusing on how the integration of a biorefinery concept can make large industries sustainable. Currently he is working on how changes in input parameter (woodchip length) affect energy consumption and greenhouse gas emission. Furthermore, he is analysing the impact of converting by-products from Kraft pulping mills into value-added products.

Abstract:

Among different chemical pulping processes, conventional Kraft pulping process is commonly practised. In this chemical pulping process, woodchips are converted into pulp and black liquor in presence of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium sulphide (N2S). This black liquor is subjected to combustion in the recovery boiler to produce steam, used for power generation and smelt recycled to extract cooking chemical (white liquor). However, Birch wood was used for this experiment. After cooking the wood sample, the pulp was separated from the black liquor using a filter paper. Furthermore, the product was washed and dried at 105oC. The by- product obtained from cooking each particle size (0-2, 2-4 and 4-8mm); at these cooking times (30, 60 and 90mins) resulted to different strong Kraft spent liquor (SKSL) samples. A liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) was carried out on the SKSL’s using Hexane as the separation solvent. The results obtained from analysing the extract using a GC/ MS and a thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), indicate that particle size 0- 2mm contain higher percentage of extractable biocrude that can be converted to value-added products In summary, the result obtained from the TGA and GC/MS analysis has shown that black liquor has the potential to improve the sustainability and economic viability of Kraft pulping mills when used as a feedstock in Kraft bio-refinery to produce value- added product.

Amanpreet Singh

Engineers India Limited, India

Title: India BioFuel industry- Challenges, Opportunities and business strategies

Time : 17:00-17:15

Biography:

Amanpreet Singh Chopra is presently working as Executive Assistance to Chairman & Managing Director of Engineers India Limited and providing support on operations, strategy and business aspects. He is also part of Corporate Strategy & Business development Group at Engineers India Limited and heading a team of technical and commercial specialities in BioFuels and Alternate Energy. He is a Mechanical Engineer from Thapar University, Patiala (erstwhile Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology) and completed his Master in Business Administration from IIM-Indore. He is currently pursuing his Doctoral degree in management from UPES. With more than 16 years of extensive experience across the hydrocarbon value chain, he has served all the major clients in the sector. He has travelled extensively in connection with professional and business activities and has presented many papers in various forums.

Abstract:

The existing Government Targets of 5E/10E/20E fuel ethanol blending with gasoline and analysed the current and future demand and supply of fuel ethanol in India till 2020. This presents huge business opportunities for technology providers to participate in forthcoming projects in India. Author also studied the techno-economic feasibility of production of Fuel Ethanol through standalone 2nd Generation Technologies (lignocellulosic) and through sensitivity analysis concluded that with current capping on Fuel Ethanol Pricing @ INR 39/L, the Ethanol production through 2G technologies is economically not viable in the country. This is hampering the huge potential available for Fuel Ethanol in India. Author also analysed that the current (1G) technological set up in the country i.e production of Fuel ethanol through Sugarcane Molasses, India willstill fall way short of its blending targets. This calls for scouting newer and economical viable technologies or innovative methodologies for ramping up ethanol production in the country. To bridge this ever increasing supply and demand gap and acieve certain degree of economic viability, author proposed the future strategies of process and 3rd level integration of 1G and 2G technologies along with sugarmill to achieve economy of scale for the forthcoming projects.

Funmilayo Faloye

University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Title: Microwave-assisted organic acid pretreatment of starch based agro-residue: Assessment of fermentable sugar and bioethanol production

Time : 17:15-17:30

Biography:

Funmilayo Faloye has recently completed her PhD from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa which focused on the optimization of bio hydrogen production leading to publications in reputable journals. For her Postdoctoral research, she is investigating integrated biofuel production systems from agricultural wastes in South Africa with focus on bioethanol and biogas. Her research interest includes bioprocess development, fermentation technology and biofuel production.

Abstract:

Biofuels production continue to generate increasing interest as an alternative to fossil fuel more importantly the advanced biofuel production using agro industrial wastes as feedstock. Over the last decade, newer approach for sustainable and efficient utilization of agro-industrial residues to produce value added products such as biofuels and bioenergy has sparked a lot of interest. In South Africa, potato is regarded as one of the major vegetable crops with about 4% of the total production capacity in Africa; the resulting peels is normally disposed as waste contributing significantly to disposal problems and environmental pollution. In this study, the potential of potato peels waste as a feedstock for bioethanol production was investigated. Furthermore, a hybrid pre-treatment technique of microwave assisted organic acid was modeled and optimized using the response surface methodology. The input factors considered were microwave duration (min), microwave power (watt), acid concentration (%) and solid loading (%). A coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.90% was achieved indicating the fitness of the model. Optimum conditions of 10 min, 800 watt, 2.5% and 10% for microwave duration (min), microwave power (watt), acid concentration (%) and solid loading (%) respectively was achieved leading to a maximum reducing sugar yield of 56 g/l corresponding to a fermentable sugar yield of 0.85 g/g potato peels. Furthermore, the hydrolyzed potato peels waste was subjected to ethanol fermentation with and a maximum ethanol yield of 11 g/l was achieved. These results demonstrate the potential of potato peels waste for the production of fermentable sugar as feedstock for bioethanol production.

M Ali Mandegari

University of Stellenbosch, South Africa

Title: Fossil fuel co-combustion of lignocellulosic sugarcane biorefineries: Techno-economic analysis (TEA) and life cycle assessment (LCA)

Time : 17:30-17:45

Biography:

M Ali Mandegari is presently a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Process Engineering Department at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, since August 2014. His

current research work is being carried out to develop bio-refinery simulations annexed to an existing sugar mill in South Africa and these include a baseline bioethanol plant as well as the production of biobutanol, lactic acid, furfural, syn-crude, methanol and electricity. He has also conducted and cooperated in eight research projects, seven of which have been completed. The results of his research are summarized by six ISI published papers, three ISI papers and twenty two presented conference papers. He has more than 8 years industrial experience in the petroleum, gas and petrochemical plants as R&D Manager, Project Engineer and Engineering Manager and Energy Auditor.

Abstract:

In this study, alternative lignocellulose biorefineries annexed to a typical sugarcane mill were investigated, which produce ethanol (EtOH), lactic acid (LA) or Methanol (MeOH), or co-produce EtOH and LA, all with surplus electricity for sale, by the conversion of bagasse and harvesting residues (brown leaves). The energy demands of the combined complex (sugar mill and biorefinery) were not met by burning the residues of biorefinery therefore, a portion of feedstock or a fossil source (coal) were burnt along with residues in the centralized CHP unit. A thorough simulation was developed using Aspen Plus for each biorefinery scenario for which energy assessment, economic evaluation based on Monte Carlo simulation, and environmental life cycle analysis (LCA) were carried out, in a multi-criteria assessment of the desirability of each scenario.The lactic acid production process was found to be the most energy intensive process with highest chemical consumption and the highest conversion of biomass carbon input to products. Consumption of coal as an alternative source of energy enhanced the available biomass for valorization. Biorefineries with coal combustion producing ethanol or ethanol&lactic acid had better environmental performance than methanol producing biorefineries, based on 1 ton of product. The co-production of EtOH and LA showed the largest likelihood of economic success, while some of the EtOH producing scenarios could achieve a positive NPV. MeOH producing scenarios had a zero likelihood of a positive NPV without substantial financial incentives or improved market prices.

Workshop

Location: Dorothy

Session Introduction

Koji Hashimoto

Tohoku Institute of Technology, Japan

Title: Synthesized natural gas production by dually fluidized bed gasification of woody biomass and subsequent methanation

Time : 11:10 - 11:35

Biography:

Koji Hashimoto is the Professor of Emeritus Tohoku Institute of Technology and Visiting Scholar Tohoku Institute of Technology. He has completed his Postdoctoral studies at the Division of Applied Chemistry, ational Research Council,Canada. He has published over 540 papers in scientific journals in addition to review articles and book chapters. He is the Editorial Board member of "Corrosion Science and the Electrochemical Society of Japan, the Society of Chemical Engineers, Japan. In particular, he has built a prototype plant for global CO2 recycling in 1995 on the roof top of the Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University.

Abstract:

The current atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration on our planet exceeded 400 ppm, which corresponds to the atmosphere in Pliocene 3.5 million years ago. Our planet had to spend 2.5 million years to decrease it to the pre-industrial level of about 280 ppm mostly by solid carbonate formation as a result of weathering dissolution of rocks on elevated Himalayan Tibet mountain massif due to the heavy rain of the monsoon. It is, therefore, impossible for us to decrease carbon dioxide from 400 ppm to 280 ppm. Only the effort we can do is to decrease carbon dioxide emissions. Our effort of the use of woody biomass in the form of synthesized natural gas is one of the solutions. We formed synthesized natural gas by efficient gasification of woody biomass and subsequent methanation. For gasification of whole-wood pellets including bark, we carried out dual fluidization in both combustion furnace and gasification furnace. In this system we performed gasification by thermal decomposition and steam gasification avoiding nitrogen contamination and achieved more than 75% cold gas efficiency of the calorific value of the wood, obtaining high concentration of hydrogen. We used a novel tar reformer with a catalyst and attained 99.9% tar reformation in the pilot scale experiment, without deterioration for 8000 h in the laboratory scale experiment. After gasification, we sent a mixture of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and steam to the methanation reactor, which uses Ni-ZrO2 type oxide catalysts. The reactor converts a mixture of 4 volumes of hydrogen and one volume of carbon dioxide to methane with almost 100% methane selectivity and about 90% conversion efficiency at 300 °C and ambient pressure. In fact, carbon monoxide at first reacted with steam shifting to hydrogen and carbon dioxide (CO+H2O=H2+CO2). Thus, the amount of methane formed was a quarter of the sum of hydrogen and carbon monoxide in the reactant gas (4H2+CO2=CH4+2H2O). We performed a demonstration at 38 Nm3/h of reactant gas with 40% steam to form methane with more than 70% calorific efficiency. The process simulation showed that the methane purity is higher than 99% after membrane separation.

Special talk

Location: Dorothy

Session Introduction

Jim Grey

Chair of renewable industries and CEO IGPC Ethanol Inc., Canada

Title: Special talk

Time : 11:35-12:00

Biography:

Abstract:

Biodiesel | Biogas | Algae Biofuels

Location: Dorothy

Session Introduction

Antonio Domingos Padula

UFRGS, Brazil

Title: A competitiveness analysis of alternative oilseeds for biodiesel production in Brazil

Time : 12:00 - 12:20

Biography:

Antonio Domingos Padula is Professor at the School of Management of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the School of Engineering of São José dos Campos (1980), Diplome D'Etudes Approfondies in Business Administration - Université de Sciences Sociales of Grenoble (1988) and doctorate in Business Administration - University of Social Sciences of Grenoble (1991). It operates in the following areas: production chains, agribusiness, bioenergy, industrial competitiveness, production strategy and operations. Participation in national and international projects: Coordinator CAPES-FIPSE-USA Project; Cooperation UFRGS-Nanjing Agricultural University (China); Cooperation UFRGS-Beijing Technology and Business University; UFRGS-UC-Berkeley Cooperation; Researcher in the Structuring Project of agroenergy in RS (FINEP and FAPERGS) and in the Pathways to Innovation Project in RS (CNPq-Pronex). This researcher participates with ad hoc consultant for CNPq, CAPES, FINEP, ... and in national and international journals.

Abstract:

The quest to develop energy matrices with higher content of renewable energy has encouraged efforts in different countries to produce and use liquid biofuels as substitutes for petrol and diesel. Biodiesel is a fuel produced from renewable sources such as vegetable oils and animal fats. In Brazil, the production and use of biodiesel is regulated by the institutional framework proposed by the national program for the production and use of biodiesel (Programa Nacional Produção e Uso de Biodiesel Produção - PNPB). The diversification of raw materials to produce biodiesel is among the main PNPB objectives. However, in Brazil, this biofuel is predominantly produced using soybeans (83%). In order to understand the reasons for the predominance of this oilseed, this research evaluated the competitiveness, economic efficiency and political effects of biodiesel production using three alternative oilseeds in Rio Grade do Sul state (the largest biodiesel producer in Brazil): Soybean, canola and sunflower. The research was conducted using the Policy Analysis Matrix (PAM) approach, which assists in analyzing and defining public policies and identifying possible market failures that might influence the economic outcomes of agribusiness chains, while assessing the competitiveness and efficiency of those systems. The results indicate that the three oilseed chains are competitive. Nevertheless, the superiority of biodiesel production from soybean chain is notable, as this chain is well organized, more competitive and more economically efficient. On the other hand, policy distortions were observed which disadvantage the private and social profitability of the three studied chains, such as the farmer’s payment system based on the seed weight, although the percentage of oil and prices differ substantially among the different raw materials, besides the significant differences in technological standards adopted in the different crops production. The results indicate the need to review the tax incentive policies, subsidies and payments to farmers of the different crops used for the production of biodiesel.

Ana Paula Alonso

The Ohio State University, USA

Title: A systems approach to improve oil synthesis in alternative crops

Time : 12:20 - 12:40

Biography:

Ana Paula Alonso is Associate Professor in the Dept. of Molecular Genetics, and Director of the Targeted Metabolomics Laboratory at The Ohio State University. A major focus of the Alonso Lab is the regulation of carbon partitioning through central metabolism. In plants, central metabolism carries carbon to the production of valuable storage compounds, such as sugars, proteins, starch, oils, and cellulose. Therefore understanding carbon partitioning is of fundamental relevance to plant fitness, fruit quality, seed yield and germination, and to designing novel approaches for breeding and genetic engineering of crops. For this purpose, the Alonso Lab combines metabolomics and 13C-based metabolic flux analysis - association of modern biochemistry with mathematical modeling. Current research aims at: Enhancing the flow of carbon towards the production of unusual fatty acids for biofuel and industrial applications and understanding the effect of biotic and abiotic stresses on plant metabolism.

Abstract:

Statement of the Problem: Physaria fendleri is a Brassicaceae that produces hydroxy fatty acids (HFAs) in its embryos; a type of oil that is very valuable and widely used in the industry of cosmetics, lubricants, biofuels... The goal of this study is to design an effective strategy for improving HFAs production by Physaria. Indeed, free of toxins and rich in HFAs, Physaria is an attractive alternative to imported castor oil, and is hence in the verge of commercialization. Moreover, Physaria has tremendous potentials for oil production, has a short maturity time and is not used for food compared to other oilseed crops. HFA production could theoretically be enhanced by classical breeding or genetic engineering approaches, however a lack of knowledge of the metabolic pathways underlying oil synthesis in Physaria seeds presents a major constraint. This study aims to find potential biochemical step(s) that limit(s) oil synthesis, which will serve as targets for future crop improvement.

Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: To advance towards this goal, we determined the intracellular metabolite levels (metabolomics) in Physaria embryos at different stages of development. For this purpose, we have developed novel and highly sensitive methodologies using state-of-the-art liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The contribution of each pathway to fatty acid synthesis in terms of carbon, reductant and energy provision is being assessed by measuring the carbon flow through the metabolic network.

Findings: The metabolomics study highlighted the metabolites and pathways that were active in Physaria embryos and important for oil production. We are now performing a 13oC-Metabolic Flux Analysis (fluxomics) to build a map of carbon flow through central metabolism.

Conclusion & Significance: This study describes the combination of innovative tools that will pave the way for controlling seed composition in promising alternative crops.

Anh phan

Newcastle University, UK

Title: Intensified biofuel production

Time : 12:40 - 13:00

Biography:

Anh N Phan has expertise in the field of reactor engineering/process intensification, biofuel processing and biorefining of waste biomass. She is also interested in kinetic modeling and catalysis. She has published more than 25 papers in high-impact factor journals with h-index of 14. Since 2013, her research has also focused on cold plasma technology and its applications in chemical processes, biorefining and waste treatment.

Abstract:

Biodiesel, a mixture of fatty acid esters formed from a transesterification of triglyceride containing feedstock with a short chain alcohol with or without catalyst, is an alternative to petro-diesel. Biodiesel is superior to petro-diesel because it has low sulfur content, high flash point temperature and lubricity and is biodegradable. It is produced from sustainable feedstock (i.e., vegetable oil, microalgae, waste oil), therefore reducing greenhouse gas (CO2) emissions. Biodiesel production is commonly carried out in batch mode in the presence of alkali catalyst and the required reaction time is up to 2 hours in order to obtain biodiesel that meets a fuel standard (i.e., EN14214). Transesterification is a two-phase reaction therefore the rate of the reaction is mass transfer-controlled. Mixing plays an important role throughout the process due to the low miscibility of oil and methanol initially and byproduct glycerol and esters in the final stages. If the mixing is insufficient, stratification (separation) could occur, therefore reducing reaction rates and this phenomenon is particularly pronounced as the phase separation removes the catalyst from the reaction mixture due to the much better solubility of sodium/potassium hydroxide in the glycerol phase. Oscillatory mixing can be effective method of eliminating mass transfer limitations in two-phase liquid systems due to its mode of mixing. An oscillatory baffled reactor (OBR), a form of continuous plug flow reactor was used to intensify the process. Biodiesel can be produced at an industrially acceptable level (>95%) in 2-5 minutes reaction time, approximately a 60-80% reduction in reactor size to obtain the same throughput. The reactor can be used for multi-stage operations and for two-stage biodiesel production for high free fatty acid feedstock. Another advantage of OBR is that, the scale up is predictable, meaning that conditions obtained in laboratory scales can be used for pilot/industrial scales.

Break:
Lunch Break 13:00-14:00 @ Foyer

A. Rajendiran

Bharat Petroleum corporation ltd, India

Title: Antiwear study on petroleum base oils with esters

Time : 14:00 - 14:20

Biography:

A Rajendiran is presently working as a Deputy General Manager (R&D) Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd in Mumbai, India. Dr.A.Rajendiran has completed his Ph.D from Annamalai University (Public University),Tamil Nadu,India He has 15 years of experience on development of lubricants. He has been involved in developing industrial products, Automotive specialty products and bio degradable lubricants. He was handling various base oils including synthetic base oil like ester base oil, PAO and PAG base oils etc. He has wide experience in NMR, FTIR spectral studies. Prior to this, he worked as the in-charge of Quality control lab about 12 years. He had experience of Motor sprit, High speed diesel, Furnace oil and Kerosene. He has wide experience on testing of testing fuels including Aviation fuels and lubricants, Chennai.He is the life member of The Indian Science Congress Association, India and Tribology society of India. Also he is the member(FRSC) Royal society of chemistry, London

Abstract:

Petroleum based mineral oils have been popularly used for manufacturing lubricants for industrial applications. However, due to concern of environmental pollution, the trend is to attempt to migrate to environment friendly and biodegradable lubricants, by using vegetable oils and synthetic esters, as these too can function as lubricants. This study covers our findings that substantial reduction in friction and wear can be achieved by mixing various proportions of mineral base oils and esters, without adding any conventional antiwear additives. Also, this study reveals the optimum dosage of esters used for reduction of wear and friction. This study is a useful tool for development of lubricants for industrial applications.

Luis F Barahona

CICY, Mexico

Title: Biofuels production from microalgae extracts (green diesel and biokerosene)

Time : 14:20 - 14:40

Biography:

Luis F Barahona has been working on biofuels production from agro-industrial residues. The processes are developed at laboratory scale but focused on the use of regional biomass and easy scale-up. He has applied biotechnological and chemical expertise to better understand the effects of process conditions on biofuels yields as well as sustainable processes.

Abstract:

The production of alternative bio jet fuels is mainly driven by environmental concerns and dependence on fossil fuels. Renewable feed stocks have been studied to provide biofuels with high energy densities, good cold flow properties and stability. Non edible oils and microalgae oils have been used to synthesize bio jet fuel and proved by several airlines. Oil palm, Jatropha, Camelina and microalgae are the most common feed stocks used until now. Due to their productivity, microalgae have good potential to be used as feedstock for biofuels production. Several studies have been carried out to assess their potential to produce three main chemical fractions: Lipids, carbohydrates and proteins that can be converted into biodiesel, bioethanol, biohydrogen and methane. In our group, we are studying the adaptation of the freshwater microalga Scenedesmus obliquus to synthetic wastewater and molasses ascarbon source. The effect of culture time on lipid profiles and the synthesis of biofuels from the microalgal extracts will be discussed.

Giovanni Antonio Lutzu

Oklahoma State University, USA

Title: Feasibility of using brewery wastewater for biodiesel production and nutrient removal by scenedesmus dimorphus

Time : 14:40 - 15:00

Biography:

Giovanni Antonio Lutzu is an Environmental Biologist, has strong interest on the use of microalgae for environmental remediation and as a priceless source of biofuels and high-value added products. He has obtained his PhD at University of Cagliari, Italy, investigating the growth kinetics of microalgae in batch and semibatch photo-bioreactors. Later, during his Postdoctoral Fellowship at the QIBEBT, China, he has focused his attention to the extraction of lipids relevant to the production of microalgal biofuels and to the enhancement of biomass as feedstock for high-value natural products. His ultimate goal as a Scientist has been to explore the feasibility of using wastewaters as a culture medium to enhance lipid and bioproducts accumulation in microalgae. Presently, he is carrying out research at BAE-OSU on the feasibility of using isolated Oklahoma native microalgae strains for the treatment of wastewater generated during the fracking activity for the extraction of oil and gas.

Abstract:

A new type of wastewater, which has potentially been recognized as an appreciable source of nutrients for microalgae cultivation, is represented by the brewery wastewater produced by the brewing industry. This work investigates the potential use of this effluent as a medium for the cultivation of the oleaginous species Scenedesmus dimorphus with the double aim of removing nutrients and to produce biomass as feedstock for biodiesel. For this purpose, effects of nitrogen (61.8-247 mg L−1), phosphorous (1.4-5.5 mg L−1) and iron (1.5-6 mg L−1) concentrations on growth, nutrients uptake, lipid accumulation and fatty acids profile of this microalga were investigated. Results showed that brewery wastewater can be used as a culture medium even if nitrogen and phosphorous concentrations should have been modified to improve both biomass (6.82 g L−1) and lipid accumulation (44.26%). The analysis revealed a C16-C18 composition of 93.47% fatty acids methyl esters with a relative high portion of unsaturated ones (67.24%). High removal efficiency (>99%) for total nitrogen and total phosphorous and a reduction of up to 65% in chemical oxygen demand was achieved, respectively. The final microalgae biomass, considering its high lipid content as well as its compliance with the standards for the quality of biodiesel and considering also the high removal efficiencies obtained for macronutrients and organic carbon makes the brewery wastewater a viable option as a priceless medium for the cultivation of microalgae.

Ashwin Gajra

Reliance Industries Limited, India

Title: Recycle of process streams for sustainable production of algae biofuels

Time : 15:00 - 15:20

Biography:

Ashwin Gajra has more than 15 years of experience in developing products and processes for Biotech applications. He has developed, scaled up and transferred technology for biofuels, biopharmaceuticals, diagnostic markers and waste water treatment and animal feed. He is currently developing cost-effective processes for separation and dewatering of algae, for biofuels and other high value applications.

Abstract:

In spite of several benefits offered by microalgae biomass as a feedstock for biofuels, high material and energy costs linked with production process poses a challenge of sustainability. Along with large volumes of water, nutrients (Nitrogen and Phosphorus) are among the substantial costs in cultivating algae. One of the many strategies to reduce the cost of cultivating algae is to lower the water footprint and reduce the nutrient requirement by efficient recycle of process streams. At Reliance Industrial Limited (RIL), the process development effort has an extensive focus on recycle of various process streams, to develop sustainable algae to oil process. This presentation will summarize the work carried out through targeted research leading to optimum recycle of harvested water and nutrients from different process streams; without any adverse impact on growth and productivity. Small-scale development work was carried out outdoors (in aquarium), in a semi-turbidostat mode, with water and nutrients supplementation from recycled process streams. Impact of inhibitors/toxic matter due to build-up in the system was studied. The results indicate a significant improvement in cost savings due to recycle of water and nutrients.

Javid Hussain

Institute of Chemical Sciences University of Peshawar, Pakistan

Title: Microbial based biofuel production: potential impact on the control of global warming

Time : 15:20 - 15:40

Biography:

Javid Hussain graduated (PhD) in 2016 from the UFBA and MSU, United States and where his supervisors were Drs. Iracema Nascimento and Dr. Wei Liao. In 2010, He received a Master’s degree in Environmental Chemistry from the Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Peshawar, Pakistan and in 2011 was admitted to MPhil program at the same institute. During his MPhil year, He received PhD offers from three countries (Australia, Brazil and South Korea). He accepted The World Academy of Sciences Award for PhD study.He has been published more than 12 papers in international peer-reviewed journals. He received grants from The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) to attend bioenergy conferences and events held in South America, North America, and Europe, and he delivered lectures at international events in four continents.

Abstract:

Environmental pollution and global warming is one of the biggest issues of world today. Environmental pollution is mainly due to anthropogenic way, mostly caused by human daily activities, usage of fossil fuels. In turn these are causing an increase in global warming. Although there are advantages of the fossil fuels in industry, but on the other hand the same fuels are also contributing the biggest amount of pollutants to the environment e.g., particulate matters, greenhouse gases which are involved in acid rain. For the last decade the world big economy pillars i.e., US, China, Brazil, Australia and some other European Countries have been giving great attention to solve the issue by increasing the production of biodiesel which are derived from various organic resources such as oleaginous fungi, microalgae, plants and animal fat. Biodiesel production is presently based on edible vegetable oils. The commercialization is challenged by high production cost and has been of the great concern regarding food vs. fuel competition. The proposed study is focused on finding non-edible oil sources such as algae. These microorganisms minimize competition with conventional agriculture, have fast growth rates, utilize a wide variety of water source, recycle stationary emissions of carbon dioxide and have high areal productivity. If we do commercialize it in market then the only option left is to produce microbial-based biodiesel, which have very good fuel properties and reduce the CO2 concentration in atmosphere. Moreover, this talk will outline recent progress made in understanding and optimizing the use of microorganisms such as algal, fungus which act as producers and decomposers in ecosystem. If scientifically and adequately explored, it will play an important role in energy sector, environmental sustainability and natural socio-ecological systems.

Henry T Bedoya

University of Life Sciences, Norway

Title: Production of Microalgae Biomass (MAB): A cost-efficient, profitable, sustainable and quality upscaling of five commercial microalgae strains in greenhouse at northern latitudes

Time : 15:40 - 16:00

Biography:

Henry T. Bedoya Has background in biological, botanical and microbiological studies and degrees from Kharkov´s National State University, Ukraine; University of Oslo, Norway and The University of Life Sciences of Norway. Field studies in food production at greenhouse conditions and specialization in microalgae biomass (MAB) production in greenhouse at northern latitudes. This journey started in Ukraine and continued in Norway with production and delivery of the MAB for the EU project under the Research for SME program titled, “Operation SWAT” under contract n: 286840 and comprehended cost-effective MAB production in two processes: upscaling and harvesting by flocculation and filtration. SWAT involved R&D institutions from Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Spain UK and Norway. Bedoya´s work at NMBU and IGV-GmbH results and findings, generated the core data for the recreation of a conveyor belt filter device from the wastewater treatment industry (Salsnes Filter Series), into a device specialized in MAB harvesting.

Abstract:

Statement of the Problem: The feasibility, sustainability, profitability and quality of a low-cost upscaling of microalgae biomass (MAB) production at Norwegian latitudes in greenhouse as an energy source. Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: Two marine(m) and three freshwater(f) algae were cultivated in duplicate, from inoculum batch to upscale in polypropylene open Tray PhotoBioReactor (TPBR, 25 L). Chlorella vulgaris(f), Dunaliella salina(m), Nannochloropsis oculata(m), cultivated for 63 days (20.06.12-23.08.12), and Scenedesmus sp(f), Chlorella wild mix Årungen(f), cultivated for 42 days (20.07.12-23.08.12), at semi-continuous operation system, enriched CO2 air (3%) and prepared in situ, trifold nitrogen nutrition bold media (3N-BBM+Vit) and tap water, with volumes replenished when need. Effects investigated: 1- Irradiance and temperature on specific growth rate and daily growth. At 23°C Scenedesmus sp grew faster at 1,2d-1 and fivefold when doubling the irradiation energy input, meanwhile Dunaliella salina, reported 0,576d-1 and 71,4% growth increase. 2- Outside weather condition in conjugation with irradiation and temperature on oxygen evolution (dissolved, DO) showed that cloudy days generated 31% more DO with 2,64 times less PAR irradiation than sunny days. 3- Optimized Dilution(D) and Mixing(M) regimes on biomass productivity(P) of marine algae increased by 60%. 4- Irradiance(I) on Photosynthetic Efficiency(PE), for marine strains, 61% lower irradiance gave 4 times higher PE, and for freshwater strains, a four times lower irradiance gave 4,6 times higher PE. 5- Irradiance on areal CO2 fixation

rate, the mean CO2 fixation rate was 55,44gCO2m-2d-1, which is 2,6 times higher values than found by Hulatt (2011). 6- Outdoors weather conditions on TPBRs energetic efficiency found the overall Irradiation Utilization Efficiency(IUE) provided by the TPBR. Nannochloropsis oculata, performed best with 1,37gMJ-1, and optical pathway 9cm.

Conclusion & Significance: A cost-efficient greenhouse MAB production at northern latitudes shows great potential as sustainable, profitable energy supplier as substitute of] soy meal in fish feed diet

Andisheh Yazdanpanaha

University of Western Ontario, Canada

Title: Effect of trace metals addition on food waste anaerobic digestion

Time : 16:00 - 16:20

Biography:

Andisheh Yazdanpanah is a a graduate student at Western University, London, Ontario

Abstract:

This study presents the impact of trace elements supplementation (TEs: Fe [50-400 mg/L], Ni [0.5-20 mg/L], Co [0.1-5 mg/L], Se [0.005-0.8 mg/L] and Mo [2-20mg/L]) individually as well as in mixtures on the specific methanogenic activity (SMA), maximum specific methane production rate (SMPRmax) and apparent hydrolysis rate constant (Kh) of food waste (FW) anaerobic digestion. Seriesof batch anaerobic digestion tests with kitchen FW as substrate were performed at various concentrations of different TEs under mesophilic conditions using Fe-rich inoculum (≈1.7 g/L). The results of this study revealed that addition of TEs adversely impacted methanogenic activity especially at the maximum concentrations of Fe, Ni, Co and Se by 47%, 70%, 33% and 37%, respectively. The effect of Mo on the methane production and SMA rate was neutral. Fe, Ni, and Co significantly affected the methane productions at elevated concentrations unlike Se and Mo. Impacts of individual supplementation of Fe, Co, Ni, Se and Mo on the SMPRmax and Kh were negligible except for Fe (400 mg/L) which moderately reduced the SMPRmax by 24%. Similar results to the control (no TEs addition), were also observed for the Kh when different mixtures of TEs were used, however, unlike the Kh, positive impacts on the SMPRmax (12%-22% enhancement) were obtained, possibly indicating the synergy. It is postulated that the high concentration of Fe in the used inoculum played an indispensable role in reducing the bioavailable fraction of metals in the form of free metal via precipitation, co-precipitation and adsorption in both single and multiple TEs addition forms.

Scientific Program

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Day 3 : October 4, 2017

Keynote Forum

Keynote: Enabling bioeconomy and sustainability: technologies for fuels and chemical production from lignocellulose

Biography:

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Keynote Forum

Keynote: Bioenergy production through chemical looping processes

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Keynote Forum

Keynote: Renewable fuels and products from biomass: A hybrid thermochemical and biochemical conversion process

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Keynote Forum

Keynote: Why is the thermophilic ethanol fermentation limited to low ethanol titers?

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Location: Dorothy

Chair

Donald L Rockwood

Session Introduction

Title: Eucalyptus trees for bioenergy

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Title: Fast growing poplars for bioenergy

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Title: Shrub willow for bioenergy and ecosystem services

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Location: Dorothy

Chair

Prabir Basu

Co-Chair

Charles M. Cai

Session Introduction

Title: A comprehensive study on production of torrefied biofuel using inclined rotary reactor

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Title: Biomass deconstruction towards total carbon utilization for future biorefineries

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Title: Biomass combustion with CO2 capture by chemical looping

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Title: Carbon debt of forest bioenergy - Fact or fantasy?

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Title: Modifying lignin content and composition to improve sorghum for bioenergy

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Title: Cold climate anaerobic digestion

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Title: Genetic manipulation of the cell wall hemicellulose component as a route to improved feedstock materials for biofuels production

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Title: Storage activity in the woody biomass supply chain: Mitigating GHG emissions and biomass degradation

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Location: Dorothy

Chair

Vosatka Miroslav

Co-Chair

Niclas Scott Bentsen

Session Introduction

Title: Demonstrating operational stability and high returns on investment using additives in biomass burning power boilers

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Title: Steam Explosion for the extraction of sugars, pectic hydrocolloids, phenolics, flavonoids and oils from Citrus sinensis

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Title: Evaluation of rise husk for bio-hydrogen production

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Title: Ecological management of fast growing trees plantations and biorefinery of added value products from biomass

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