Technical and environmental analysis on the power production from residual biomass using hydrogen as energy vector

Decarbonization of energy by using renewable sources is a global need to tackle climate change. Herein, we report on the techno-environmental analysis of the use of sugarcane press-mud, a residual biomass, as feedstock to produce power in a fuel cell by using hydrogen (H-2) as energy vector. Technical analysis was performed by using experimental and Aspen plus simulation results whereas environmental analysis was assessed through life cycle assessment. Raw bioethanol was used as H-2 source, which was purified by three different technologies, i.e., flash, mash, and rectification columns. Mash column was selected as the suitable process to purify bioethanol for producing H-2 and power, mainly ascribed to the reduction of bioethanol impurities that increases H-2 yield, reduces energy demand, and mitigates the environmental impact in terms of global warming potential and acidification potential. This technology presented an energy efficiency of 56 %, a renewability factor of 1.24 and a carbon footprint of 1.21 kg CO2 kWh(-1). Additionally, the use of residual biomass showed environmental benefits in comparison with the use of first-generation bioethanol from sugarcane molasses. Therefore, using sugarcane press-mud as power source in rural areas can diversify the energy sources to move towards a decarbonized economy. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The study demonstrates the effective use of sugarcane press-mud as feedstock to produce power in a fuel cell using hydrogen, achieving efficient energy utilization and environmental benefits. Through life cycle assessment, the technology showed high energy efficiency, renewability, and low carbon footprint, contributing positively to the environment.