An integrated biorefinery framework for the coproduction of biofuels and chemicals: Experimental analysis, detailed modelling, optimisation and life cycle analysis

A novel integrated biorefinery framework is presented. A "cradle to grave" analysis is developed by adding novel steps into a basic biodiesel process involving the valorization of waste streams to value-added chemicals. Insights are given towards a new bioconversion route of glycerol to succinic acid. An unstructured model of batch experiments at different conditions is constructed. The develop model is used in optimization studies to compute the best initial conditions for batch as well as the optimal feeding profiles for fed-batch processes to maximize succinic acid productivity. The process is then incorporated into a biorefinery scheme. Simulation and optimization in conjunction with life cycle analysis is carried out to improve its economics and sustainability. This is an abstract of a paper presented at the 7th European Congress of Chemical Engineering-7 and 19th International Congress of Chemical and Process Engineering CHISA (Prague, Czech Republic 8/28/2010-9/1/2010).