Biomass to hydrogen for the realization of closed cycles of energy resources

The crucial mission of energy research is the promotion and implementation of methods, technologies and processes for a sustainable economic and social development. Within this framework the key progress energy systems is the realization of Closed Cycles of Energy Resources-CCER, whose goal is to achieve zero consumption in terms of non-renewable resources and no impact on the environment. A CCER can be realised with biomass, a renewable energy resource, and hydrogen, the cleanest fuel. This solution can supply secure and environmental friendly energy for medium electric and heating power demand. This context meets the actual trend towards cleaner, greener, smaller and more decentralized energy production facilities. The paper, after a brief description of closed hydrogen cycle and biomass resources, presents a comprehensive overview of the topic. The review of sustainability of biomass hydrogen systems shows how these systems, even if they require further research and demonstration activity, can obtain a remarkable electricity and heat production with near zero pollution. Furthermore, using refusals or trash materials and standard technologies, the biomass to hydrogen systems can provide in many case economic and social advantages. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.