Process Simulation Models Linking Biomass to Biofuel Experimental Outcomes with Supply Chain Optimization

In recent years, the emphasis of research on renewable energy has been towards determining the economic viability of biomass to biofuel supply chains. The conversion process is a critical segment of the overall supply chain which is influential in determining the viability of any biorefining process. The focus of this research is to develop novel process simulation models incorporating experimental outcomes that can be used estimate the economic feasibility. The models used are developed in Aspen Plus® process engineering suite which is dynamically linked to user defined kinetics. The process simulation model not only aims to replicate the lab scale outcomes but also to guide the experimental research to reduce infeasible iterations. Fully functional process optimization models are then interfaced with the supply chain optimization framework, to capture the effect of potential bottlenecks during the transportation of bio-based feedstock and end products. The comprehensive model is one of its kind which provides various stakeholders with credible economic findings pertaining to biorefining. This informative decision support tool can be used by researchers to examine practical impact of their experimental outcomes.