Title:
Development of an Agricultural Model for Biorefineries Sustainability Optimization
Author(s):
Cavalett, O., Chagas, M.F., Cardoso, T.F., Franco, H.C.J., Junqueira, T.L., Pavanello, L.G., Jesus, C.D.F., Moraes, B.S., Bonomi, A.
Document(s):
Paper
Abstract:
This paper presents an agricultural model that is used for integrated sustainability optimization of bioenergy chain. This study aims at showing the importance of using an integrated framework tool to assess technical and economic impacts of different biorefinery alternatives considering the full production chain. A case study based on the sugarcane biorefinery is introduced. Three optimization strategies for the current sugarcane biorefinery system in Brazil were evaluated: recovery of sugarcane straw for production of second generation ethanol and electricity; sugarcane harvesting season extension using sweet sorghum; and biodigestion and concentration of vinasse. The agricultural production model used in this study proved to be a powerful tool for sustainability optimization and comparative evaluation of renewable energy production chains. Results showed that the different optimization strategies assessed can improve economic performance of sugarcane biorefineries, while decreasing its environmental impacts due to higher bioenergy productivity and optimized utilization of crop residues, land, agricultural machinery and industrial equipment.
Keywords:
agriculture, biorefinery, economic aspects, ethanol, life cycle assessment (LCA), sugar cane
Topic:
Biomass Policies, Markets and Sustainability
Subtopic:
Sustainability assessment and criteria
Event:
21st European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
5EO.1.4
Pages:
1826 - 1834
ISBN:
978-88-89407-53-0
Paper DOI:
10.5071/21stEUBCE2013-5EO.1.4
Price:
FREE
