Journal Description
Biomass
Biomass
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on biomass conversion and biorefinery published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, EBSCO, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 15.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Latest Articles
Enhancement of Biogas (Methane) Production from Cow Dung Using a Microbial Electrochemical Cell and Molecular Characterization of Isolated Methanogenic Bacteria
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 455-471; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020023 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Biogas has long been used as a household cooking fuel in many tropical counties, and it has the potential to be a significant energy source beyond household cooking fuel. In this study, we describe the use of low electrical energy input in an
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Biogas has long been used as a household cooking fuel in many tropical counties, and it has the potential to be a significant energy source beyond household cooking fuel. In this study, we describe the use of low electrical energy input in an anaerobic digestion process using a microbial electrochemical cell (MEC) to promote methane content in biogas at 18, 28, and 37 °C. Although the maximum amount of biogas production was at 37 °C (25 cm3), biogas could be effectively produced at lower temperatures, i.e., 18 (13 cm3) and 28 °C (19 cm3), with an external 2 V power input. The biogas production of 13 cm3 obtained at 18 °C was ~65-fold higher than the biogas produced without an external power supply (0.2 cm3). This was further enhanced by 23% using carbon-nanotubes-treated (CNT) graphite electrodes. This suggests that the MEC can be operated at as low as 18 °C and still produce significant amounts of biogas. The share of CH4 in biogas produced in the controls was 30%, whereas the biogas produced in an MEC had 80% CH4. The MEC effectively reduced COD to 42%, whereas it consumed 98% of reducing sugars. Accordingly, it is a suitable method for waste/manure treatment. Molecular characterization using 16s rRNA sequencing confirmed the presence of methanogenic bacteria, viz., Serratia liquefaciens and Zoballella taiwanensis, in the inoculum used for the fermentation. Consistent with recent studies, we believe that electromethanogenesis will play a significant role in the production of value-added products and improve the management of waste by converting it to energy.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Biomass Conversion)
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Evaluation of Mediterranean Tree Leaves as Valuable Biomass of Digestive Enzymes and Bacterial Inhibitors in the Concept of Circular Bioeconomy
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Atalanti Christou, Konstantina Stavrou, Christodoulos Michael, George Botsaris and Vlasios Goulas
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 442-454; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020022 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
This study aspires to evaluate the antibacterial and inhibitory effects of carbohydrate digestive enzymes in tree leaves that are widely distributed in the Mediterranean region. Leaves were sequentially extracted with solvents of increasing polarity. The results demonstrated a wide range of phenolic (3.5–770.7
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This study aspires to evaluate the antibacterial and inhibitory effects of carbohydrate digestive enzymes in tree leaves that are widely distributed in the Mediterranean region. Leaves were sequentially extracted with solvents of increasing polarity. The results demonstrated a wide range of phenolic (3.5–770.7 mg gallic acid equivalent g−1) and flavonoid (0.2–321.3 mg catechin equivalent g−1) contents in leaf extracts. The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentration of leaf extracts was determined for six bacteria using the broth microdilution method. The polar extracts of carob, lentisk, and white mulberry leaves exerted strong antibacterial potency against Gram-positive bacteria, while the susceptibility of Escherichia coli on relative apolar extracts of carob, fig, and olive leaves was also observed. In parallel, the inhibitory effects of leaf extracts on carbohydrate digestive enzymes were evaluated. A robust inhibition of α-glucosidase was found for carob and lentisk leaf extracts, followed by extracts produced by white mulberry and olive leaves. Carob and lentisk leaves also act as a-amylase inhibitors at high concentrations. Overall, this study provides valuable data for the nutraceutical value of the “forgotten” treasure of Mediterranean tree leaves and assesses these plants as potential sources of antibacterial and carbohydrate digestive enzyme inhibitory agents for drug discovery.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Valorization of Agri-Food Waste Biomass for the Extraction of Bioactive Compounds)
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Open AccessArticle
Production of Anthocyanin-Rich Red Rose Petal Extract by Enzymatic Maceration
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Bernardo Dias Ribeiro, Rachel de Moraes Ferreira, Liliana Areia Bastos Coelho and Daniel Weingart Barreto
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 429-441; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020021 - 10 May 2024
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The use of enzymes to hydrolyze the plant cell matrix is a method known for extracting bioactive substances. The current work used this strategy to produce a rose petal extract rich in anthocyanins that is stable in the presence of marine polysaccharides and
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The use of enzymes to hydrolyze the plant cell matrix is a method known for extracting bioactive substances. The current work used this strategy to produce a rose petal extract rich in anthocyanins that is stable in the presence of marine polysaccharides and has a high antioxidant activity. The process evaluation was carried out sequentially, initially comparing water, ethanol, and their mixtures to anthocyanins extracted in the presence or absence of enzymes. Then, a multi-objective desirability function optimized experimental conditions such as solvent and enzyme concentrations. This study is the first report describing the use of a statistical tool, the central composite rotatable design (CCRD), to optimize anthocyanin extraction from rose petals. This method obtained a maximum extraction of 9.99 mg/g of phenols. The stability of the rose petal extract when using marine polysaccharides retained 60% of the anthocyanins over 28 days without deterioration when protected from sunlight but was practically degraded upon exposure to sunlight. The rose petal extract demonstrated a very high antioxidant capacity of 3.19 μg/mL, close to the literature data for citrus compounds, known to be high in antioxidant compounds for cosmetic food purposes.
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Open AccessArticle
Edible Paper Sheets from Alternanthera philoxeroides and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix: Smart Biomass Valorization
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Sharmin Suraiya, Mst. Ayesha Siddika Mohona, Mst Fatema, Monjurul Haq, Md. Anisur Rahman and Subrata Mondal
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 414-428; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020020 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Alternanthera philoxeroides and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix offer significant nutritional benefits. This study evaluates the proximate composition, amino acid profile, GC-MS analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM and EDX, and color values of edible paper sheets (EPSs) derived from Alternanthera philoxeroides incorporating different levels of Hypophthalmichthys molitrix
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Alternanthera philoxeroides and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix offer significant nutritional benefits. This study evaluates the proximate composition, amino acid profile, GC-MS analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM and EDX, and color values of edible paper sheets (EPSs) derived from Alternanthera philoxeroides incorporating different levels of Hypophthalmichthys molitrix flesh. The protein content in the EPSs varied based on fish flesh incorporation, peaking at 52.66% in Ap100/Hm300 (Non-boil). Protein and carbohydrate contents showed an inverse correlation across EPSs, with the highest carbohydrate content of 60.89% in sample Ap400/Hm0 (Boil). Lipid content was also found to correlate with H. molitrix flesh content in EPSs, ranging from 1.59% to 18.41%. Amino acid analysis identified 11 types, with methionine as the most prevalent, followed by leucine, phenylalanine, and lysine. GC-MS analysis revealed 51 bioactive compounds, including carbonic acid, hentriacontane, and various fatty acids. FT-IR analysis showed characteristic bonds, while color analysis displayed L* values ranging from 24.37 to 30.97. SEM analyses depicted the microstructure, surface view, and elemental composition of the EPSs, and EDX showed an abundance of Ca, N, K, O, C, Mg, Na, P, Cl, Mn, and Fe. Therefore, EPSs prepared from A. philoxeroides and H. molitrix could offer a promising approach for effectively utilizing aquatic biomass and providing both plant and animal nutrients to consumers.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the "2nd European Congress on Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development—Energy Trends 2024")
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Enhancing the Extraction of Phenolic Antioxidants from Amazonian Assai (Euterpe oleracea Martius) Fruit Waste through Response Surface Methodology Optimization
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Yasmin Cunha-Silva, David Dias, Luiz Felipe Ravazi Pereira, Carlos Victor Lamarão Pereira, Emerson Silva Lima, Klenicy Kazumy de Lima Yamaguchi and Valdir Florêncio da Veiga-Junior
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 402-413; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020019 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Assai (Euterpe oleracea Martius) is a superfruit widely consumed in several countries, mainly produced in the Amazon region. The significant growth of the market for this fruit has raised environmental concerns regarding the disposal of production waste, especially the seeds that are
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Assai (Euterpe oleracea Martius) is a superfruit widely consumed in several countries, mainly produced in the Amazon region. The significant growth of the market for this fruit has raised environmental concerns regarding the disposal of production waste, especially the seeds that are not utilized and represent approximately 80% of the fruit. In the present study, strategies were developed for transforming these seed wastes into new products, using green solvents for extraction under conditions conducive to technology transfer and with feasible quality control through simple bench techniques, which represents an ideal approach for establishing a truly sustainable process. A significant interaction between solvent and extraction method was observed, impacting both yields and total phenols. Phenolic compounds are substances known for their health benefits, functioning as antioxidants and consequently aiding in disease prevention. The phenolic content observed in the extractions increased from 22.68% to 44.74% under optimal conditions during extraction via hot maceration (50 °C) in 100% ethanol for 2 h, which also enhanced yield and increased antioxidant capacity. The extracts displayed remarkable free radical scavenging activities (IC50 = 6.54 μg/mL in ABTS and IC50 = 14.71 μg/mL in DPPH), approaching the Trolox and quercetin standards, respectively. The optimized method paved the way for the industrial-scale utilization of the residues of this valuable Amazonian fruit.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Valorization of Agri-Food Waste Biomass for the Extraction of Bioactive Compounds)
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Revolutionizing Sustainable Nonwoven Fabrics: The Potential Use of Agricultural Waste and Natural Fibres for Nonwoven Fabric
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Hamdam Gaminian, Behzad Ahvazi, J. John Vidmar, Usukuma Ekuere and Sharon Regan
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 363-401; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020018 - 6 May 2024
Abstract
There has been a growing interest in recycling and upcycling different waste streams due to concerns for environmental protection. This has prompted the desire to develop circular economies and optimize the utilization of bioresources for different industrial sectors. Turning agricultural and forestry waste
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There has been a growing interest in recycling and upcycling different waste streams due to concerns for environmental protection. This has prompted the desire to develop circular economies and optimize the utilization of bioresources for different industrial sectors. Turning agricultural and forestry waste streams into high-performance materials is a promising and meaningful strategy for creating value-added materials. Lignocellulose fibres from plants are emerging as a potential candidate for eco-friendly feedstock in the textile industry. Nonwoven fabric is one of the most innovative and promising categories for the textile industry since it currently utilizes about 66% synthetic materials. In the upcoming wave of nonwoven products, we can expect an increased utilization of natural and renewable materials, particularly with a focus on incorporating lignocellulosic materials as both binders and fibre components. The introduction of low-cost fibres from waste residue materials to produce high-performance nonwoven fabrics represents a shift towards more environmentally sustainable paradigms in various applications and they represent ecological and inexpensive alternatives to conventional petroleum-derived materials. Here, we review potential technologies for using agricultural waste fibres in nonwoven products.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Valorization of Agri-Food Waste Biomass for the Extraction of Bioactive Compounds)
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Utilization of Blackmouth Catshark (Galeus melastomus) Skins as an Alternative Source of Gelatin: Extraction and Physicochemical Characterization in Comparison to Porcine Skin Gelatin
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Panayotis D. Karayannakidis, Soumela E. Chatziantoniou and Chong M. Lee
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 349-362; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020017 - 6 May 2024
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The present study investigated the potential use of blackmouth catshark (Galeus melastomus) skins for gelatin production by employing a combined alkaline and acidic process. The yield of dry gelatin was relatively high (13.95%), showing a high protein content (87.80%), but low
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The present study investigated the potential use of blackmouth catshark (Galeus melastomus) skins for gelatin production by employing a combined alkaline and acidic process. The yield of dry gelatin was relatively high (13.95%), showing a high protein content (87.80%), but low moisture (10.64%), ash (1.34%) and lipid (0.03%) contents, on a wet weight basis. Fish skin gelatin showed better color properties (>L*, <+b* values) than porcine skin gelatin and exhibited similar gel strength (315.4 g) and higher viscosity (5.90 cP) than the latter (p < 0.05). Although the electrophoretic study revealed that fish skin gelatin was degraded to a lesser extent than its mammalian counterpart, the resulting fish skin gelatin gels melted at a significantly lower temperature (Tm = 21.5 °C), whereas the reverse process (i.e., gelling) also occurred at a lower temperature (Ts = 10.6 °C) and required more time (ts = 29.5 min) compared to porcine skin gelatin gels (Tm = 30.4 °C, Ts = 19.4 °C and ts = 20.7 min). These differences were attributed to the different imino acid content, which was greater in mammalian gelatin (p < 0.05). The results suggested that the skins from blackmouth catshark can be potentially used as an alternative raw material for gelatin production, which will fill the needs of more diverse cultures that do not consume pork- or cow-related products.
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Open AccessReview
Algae: Nature’s Renewable Resource for Fuels and Chemicals
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Sourabh Chakraborty and Nurhan Turgut Dunford
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 329-348; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020016 - 16 Apr 2024
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Microalgae-based renewable energy, industrial chemicals, and food have received great attention during the last decade. This review article highlights the versatility of algal biomass as a feedstock for producing various commodities and high-value products, including aromatic hydrocarbons and lipids within biorefinery systems. Lipid
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Microalgae-based renewable energy, industrial chemicals, and food have received great attention during the last decade. This review article highlights the versatility of algal biomass as a feedstock for producing various commodities and high-value products, including aromatic hydrocarbons and lipids within biorefinery systems. Lipid content and the composition of algal biomass cultivated in various media, specifically in wastewater streams generated at agricultural and industrial production facilities, are reviewed. Technical and chemical aspects of algal biomass conversion via thermochemical techniques including pyrolysis, hydrothermal liquefaction, and hydrothermal carbonization are discussed. The properties of the final products are reviewed based on the conversion process employed. Studies published within the last 5 years are reviewed. The importance of further research on inexpensive and more effective catalysts and the development of downstream processes to upgrade crude products obtained from thermal conversion processes is emphasized. This review concludes with an in-depth discussion of the opportunities and challenges involved in algal biomass-based bioproduct manufacturing and commercialization.
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Open AccessReview
Biotransformation of Pollutants by Pycnoporus spp. in Submerged and Solid-State Fermentation: Mechanisms, Achievements, and Perspectives
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Vinícius Mateus Salvatori Cheute, Thaís Marques Uber, Luís Felipe Oliva dos Santos, Emanueli Backes, Marina Proença Dantas, Alex Graça Contato, Rafael Castoldi, Cristina Giatti Marques de Souza, Rúbia Carvalho Gomes Corrêa, Adelar Bracht and Rosane Marina Peralta
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 313-328; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020015 - 16 Apr 2024
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Substantial amounts of organo-pollutants, often persistent and toxic, are generated globally each year, posing a threat to soil, water, groundwater, and air. The pollutants encompass a wide range of substances from various sources, which include solid as well as liquid ones, such as
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Substantial amounts of organo-pollutants, often persistent and toxic, are generated globally each year, posing a threat to soil, water, groundwater, and air. The pollutants encompass a wide range of substances from various sources, which include solid as well as liquid ones, such as landfill leachates and wastewaters. The compounds include paper and pulp mill byproducts, pharmaceuticals, diverse types of plastics, hydrocarbons, pigments, and dyes, as well as pesticides and insecticides. Fungal bioremediation stands out as a promising technology that uses the metabolic potential of fungi to eliminate or mitigate the impact of pollutants. Notably, species of the genus Pycnoporus exhibit significant capabilities for degrading a broad spectrum of toxic molecules. This degradation is facilitated by released ligninolytic enzymes, especially laccase, and cellular enzymes pertaining to the cytochrome P450 monooxygenase system. The laccase, which is overproduced by the genus Pycnoporus, is quite remarkable for its high redox potential. The objective of this review is to highlight the proficiency of the Pycnoporus genus in the degradation of pollutants in submerged and solid-state fermentation. Recent studies conducted over the past decade consistently highlight the Pycnoporus genus as a robust contender in the realm of white biotechnology.
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Toward Circular Economy: Potentials of Spent Coffee Grounds in Bioproducts and Chemical Production
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Hisham Ahmed, Rasaq S. Abolore, Swarna Jaiswal and Amit K. Jaiswal
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 286-312; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020014 - 12 Apr 2024
Abstract
With growing concern over environmental sustainability and dwindling fossil resources, it is crucial to prioritise the development of alternative feedstocks to replace fossil resources. Spent coffee grounds (SCGs) are an environmental burden with an estimated six million tons being generated on a wet
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With growing concern over environmental sustainability and dwindling fossil resources, it is crucial to prioritise the development of alternative feedstocks to replace fossil resources. Spent coffee grounds (SCGs) are an environmental burden with an estimated six million tons being generated on a wet basis annually, globally. SCGs are rich in cellulose, lignin, protein, lipids, polyphenols and other bioactive compounds which are important raw materials for use in industries including pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Furthermore, the energy sector has the potential to capitalize on the high calorific value of SCGs for biofuel and biogas production, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. SCGs are readily available, abundant, and cheap, however, SCGs are currently underutilized, and a significant amount are dumped into landfills. This review explores the potential of SCGs as a source of a value-added compound through various conversion technologies employed in the valorisation of SCGs into biochar, biofuel, and important chemical building blocks. The state-of-the-art, current knowledge, future research to stimulate the creation of sustainable products, and the challenges and economic feasibility of exploring SCGs in a biorefinery context are presented.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fate and Migration of Biomass Products)
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Study of Compost Based on Sewage Sludge and Different Structural Materials
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Przemysław Kosobucki
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 273-285; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020013 - 4 Apr 2024
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The characterization of compost compositions on the basis of sewage sludge and structural materials (straw, sawdust, bark) composting is described. A comparison of the methods most often used for composting and characterization of structural materials is also presented. Sewage sludge and structural materials
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The characterization of compost compositions on the basis of sewage sludge and structural materials (straw, sawdust, bark) composting is described. A comparison of the methods most often used for composting and characterization of structural materials is also presented. Sewage sludge and structural materials were mixed in different ratios and composted in piles (laboratory scale) for 3 months. During this time, the composting process was controlled using standard methods. The bioavailability of some xenobiotics in an agriculture experiment (using beans) was also investigated.
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Open AccessReview
A Review on Biochar as an Adsorbent for Pb(II) Removal from Water
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Pushpita Kumkum and Sandeep Kumar
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 243-272; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020012 - 2 Apr 2024
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Heavy metal contamination in drinking water is a growing concern due to its severe health effects on humans. Among the many metals, lead (Pb), which is a toxic and harmful element, has the most widespread global distribution. Pb pollution is a major problem
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Heavy metal contamination in drinking water is a growing concern due to its severe health effects on humans. Among the many metals, lead (Pb), which is a toxic and harmful element, has the most widespread global distribution. Pb pollution is a major problem of water pollution in developing countries and nations. The most common sources of lead in drinking water are lead pipes, faucets, and plumbing fixtures. Adsorption is the most efficient method for metal removal, and activated carbon has been used widely in many applications as an effective adsorbent, but its high production costs have created the necessity for a low-cost alternative adsorbent. Biochar can be a cost-effective substitute for activated carbon in lead adsorption because of its porous structure, irregular surface, high surface-to-volume ratio, and presence of oxygenated functional groups. Extensive research has explored the remarkable potential of biochar in adsorbing Pb from water and wastewater through batch and column studies. Despite its efficacy in Pb removal, several challenges hinder the real application of biochar as an adsorbent. These challenges include variability in the adsorption capacity due to the diverse range of biomass feedstocks, production processes, pH dependence, potential desorption, or a leaching of Pb from the biochar back into the solution; the regeneration and reutilization of spent biochar; and a lack of studies on scalability issues for its application as an adsorbent. This manuscript aims to review the last ten years of research, highlighting the opportunities and engineering challenges associated with using biochar for Pb removal from water. Biochar production and activation methods, kinetics, adsorption isotherms, mechanisms, regeneration, and adsorption capacities with process conditions are discussed. The objective is to provide a comprehensive resource that can guide future researchers and practitioners in addressing engineering challenges.
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Open AccessPerspective
High Added-Value by-Products from Biomass: A Case Study Unveiling Opportunities for Strengthening the Agroindustry Value Chain
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Filipe Kayodè Felisberto Dos Santos, Ian Gardel Carvalho Barcellos-Silva, Odilon Leite-Barbosa, Rayssa Ribeiro, Yasmin Cunha-Silva and Valdir Florencio Veiga-Junior
Biomass 2024, 4(2), 217-242; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4020011 - 1 Apr 2024
Abstract
The current era witnesses a remarkable advancement in biomass utilization, guided by the principles of green chemistry and biorefinery and the comprehensive exploitation of plant-based raw materials. Predominantly, large-scale production methods have been pursued, akin to approaches in the oil industry, enabling the
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The current era witnesses a remarkable advancement in biomass utilization, guided by the principles of green chemistry and biorefinery and the comprehensive exploitation of plant-based raw materials. Predominantly, large-scale production methods have been pursued, akin to approaches in the oil industry, enabling the incorporation of novel products into energy and petrochemical markets. However, the viability of such systems on a small and medium scale is hindered by logistical challenges and the constraints of economies of scale. For small agricultural producers and food processing companies, the complete utilization of biomass transcends environmental responsibility, evolving into a strategy for survival through the diversification of by-products with enhanced value. The state of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil presents a range of population dynamics, geographical features, climate conditions, and agricultural production patterns that closely resemble those found in various tropical countries and agricultural regions worldwide. This region, sustaining a green belt supporting 17 million people, provides an apt case study for investigating chemical compounds with potential value among agro-industrial residues, which can motivate the creation of a lucrative biotechnological industry. Examples include naringenin and hesperidin from oranges and lemons, epi-gallo-catechin gallate from bananas, caffeic acids from coffee, and the bromelain enzyme from pineapples. This study addresses the challenges associated with developing biotechnological alternatives within the agroindustry, considering economic, technological, logistical, and market-related aspects. The insights from examining the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro will contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable biomass utilization and the creation of value-added by-products.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biorefineries, Circular Cities, and the Bioeconomy)
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Exploring the Antioxidant Properties of Citrus limon (Lemon) Peel Ultrasound Extract after the Cloud Point Extraction Method
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Vassilis Athanasiadis, Theodoros Chatzimitakos, Martha Mantiniotou, Eleni Bozinou and Stavros I. Lalas
Biomass 2024, 4(1), 202-216; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4010010 - 1 Mar 2024
Cited by 1
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Each year, a substantial amount of food is discarded around the globe. A significant portion of this waste consists of by-products derived from Citrus fruits such as lemons. The purpose of this research is to examine the polyphenol extraction and the antioxidant ability
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Each year, a substantial amount of food is discarded around the globe. A significant portion of this waste consists of by-products derived from Citrus fruits such as lemons. The purpose of this research is to examine the polyphenol extraction and the antioxidant ability of lemon peel using cloud point extraction (CPE), a sustainable approach. CPE was conducted using three steps with a 20% w/v concentration of Span 20 as the surfactant, which has a critical micellar concentration of 6.13 × 10−5 mol/L. The pH was set at 7 and a salt concentration of 20% was maintained at 45 °C for 20 min. The subsequent outcomes of the analysis were obtained: total polyphenol content (TPC): 526.32 mg gallic acid equivalents per liter; total flavonoid content (TFC): 90.22 mg rutin equivalents per liter; FRAP, DPPH, and hydrogen peroxide assays: 2.40, 2.68 and 1.03 mmol ascorbic acid equivalents per liter, respectively, and 168.63 mg/L ascorbic acid content. The quantification of the polyphenolic compounds through High-Performance Liquid Chromatography showed that the most abundant compounds in the lemon peels are eriocitrin (159.43 mg/L) and hesperidin (135.21 mg/L). The results indicate that the proposed CPE technique is successful in extracting antioxidant compounds from lemon peels. The generated extracts have the potential to be exploited as dietary additives to enhance human health and can also be utilized for nutraceuticals or pharmaceutical purposes.
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Termite Microbial Symbiosis as a Model for Innovative Design of Lignocellulosic Future Biorefinery: Current Paradigms and Future Perspectives
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Mudasir A. Dar, Rongrong Xie, Hossain M. Zabed, Shehbaz Ali, Daochen Zhu and Jianzhong Sun
Biomass 2024, 4(1), 180-201; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4010009 - 1 Mar 2024
Abstract
The hunt for renewable and alternative fuels has driven research towards the biological conversion of lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) into biofuels, including bioethanol and biohydrogen. Among the natural biomass utilization systems (NBUS), termites represent a unique and easy-to-access model system to study host–microbe interactions
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The hunt for renewable and alternative fuels has driven research towards the biological conversion of lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) into biofuels, including bioethanol and biohydrogen. Among the natural biomass utilization systems (NBUS), termites represent a unique and easy-to-access model system to study host–microbe interactions towards lignocellulose bioconversion/valorization. Termites have gained significant interest due to their highly efficient lignocellulolytic systems. The wood-feeding termites apply a unique and stepwise process for the hydrolysis of lignin, hemicellulose, and cellulose via biocatalytic processes; therefore, mimicking their digestive metabolism and physiochemical gut environments might lay the foundation for an innovative design of nature-inspired biotechnology. This review highlights the gut system of termites, particularly the wood-feeding species, as a unique model for future biorefinery. The gut system of termites is a treasure-trove for prospecting novel microbial species, including protists, bacteria, and fungi, having higher biocatalytic efficiencies and biotechnological potentials. The significance of potential bacteria and fungi for harnessing the enzymes appropriate for lignocellulosic biorefinery is also discussed. Termite digestomes are rich sources of lignocellulases and related enzymes that could be utilized in various industrial processes and biomass-related applications. Consideration of the host and symbiont as a single functioning unit will be one of the most crucial strategies to expedite developments in termite-modeled biotechnology in the future.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Systems for Biomass Crop Production and Use)
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Techno-Economic Analysis of Hemp Production, Logistics and Processing in the U.S
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Asmita Khanal and Ajay Shah
Biomass 2024, 4(1), 164-179; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4010008 - 1 Mar 2024
Abstract
Industrial hemp is a versatile crop, and its products have important applications in the food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, textile, paper and composite industries. Since its legalization in the U.S. in 2018, interest in growing and using hemp has been increasing. This study evaluated the
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Industrial hemp is a versatile crop, and its products have important applications in the food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, textile, paper and composite industries. Since its legalization in the U.S. in 2018, interest in growing and using hemp has been increasing. This study evaluated the techno-economics of hemp grain and fiber production, harvest and post-harvest logistics, the drying and storage of hemp grain, and the decortication of fiber stalks. The analysis was performed using a process modeling approach with data obtained from the literature considering a farm size of 162 ha (average U.S. farm size). The input parameters were used as distributed functions and the results obtained are reported as interquartile ranges after 10,000 Monte Carlo simulations. The total cost of producing and processing hemp grain and fiber was estimated to be in the interquartile range of USD 2911–3566 Mg−1 and USD 1155–1505 Mg−1, respectively. The costs of seed and fertilizer along with grain and fiber yields were found to be the major factors influencing field production costs, while costs associated with facilities and labor were the main costs in fiber processing. Despite the high resource requirements and processing costs, high-value applications of hemp grain and fiber show great potential to produce net incomes of USD 426–3701 Mg−1 and USD 1570–2016 Mg−1, respectively.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Systems for Biomass Crop Production and Use)
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An Updated Review of Recent Applications and Perspectives of Hydrogen Production from Biomass by Fermentation: A Comprehensive Analysis
by
Dayana Nascimento Dari, Isabelly Silveira Freitas, Francisco Izaias da Silva Aires, Rafael Leandro Fernandes Melo, Kaiany Moreira dos Santos, Patrick da Silva Sousa, Paulo Gonçalves de Sousa Junior, Antônio Luthierre Gama Cavalcante, Francisco Simão Neto, Jessica Lopes da Silva, Érico Carlos de Castro, Valdilane Santos Alexandre, Ana M. da S. Lima, Juliana de França Serpa, Maria C. M. de Souza and José C. S. dos Santos
Biomass 2024, 4(1), 132-163; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4010007 - 1 Mar 2024
Abstract
Fermentation is an oxygen-free biological process that produces hydrogen, a clean, renewable energy source with the potential to power a low-carbon economy. Bibliometric analysis is crucial in academic research to evaluate scientific production, identify trends and contributors, and map the development of a
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Fermentation is an oxygen-free biological process that produces hydrogen, a clean, renewable energy source with the potential to power a low-carbon economy. Bibliometric analysis is crucial in academic research to evaluate scientific production, identify trends and contributors, and map the development of a field, providing valuable information to guide researchers and promote scientific innovation. This review provides an advanced bibliometric analysis and a future perspective on fermentation for hydrogen production. By searching WoS, we evaluated and refined 62,087 articles to 4493 articles. This allowed us to identify the most important journals, countries, institutions, and authors in the field. In addition, the ten most cited articles and the dominant research areas were identified. A keyword analysis revealed five research clusters that illustrate where research is progressing. The outlook indicates that a deeper understanding of microbiology and support from energy policy will drive the development of hydrogen from fermentation.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Biomass for Energy, Chemicals and Materials)
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Open AccessReview
Orange Peel Waste as a Source of Bioactive Compounds and Valuable Products: Insights Based on Chemical Composition and Biorefining
by
Mariana Ortiz-Sanchez, Carlos Ariel Cardona Alzate and Juan Camilo Solarte-Toro
Biomass 2024, 4(1), 107-131; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4010006 - 2 Feb 2024
Cited by 1
Abstract
Few valorization pathways have been implemented as alternatives to reduce the orange peel waste (OPW) disposal in landfills. OPW can be a source of income or economic savings in juice production factories since this waste is a potential source of value-added products (e.g.,
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Few valorization pathways have been implemented as alternatives to reduce the orange peel waste (OPW) disposal in landfills. OPW can be a source of income or economic savings in juice production factories since this waste is a potential source of value-added products (e.g., bioactive compounds) and energy vectors (e.g., biogas). Valorization alternatives should be based on (i) orange peel chemical composition, (ii) market analysis, and (iii) availability. Nevertheless, few literature papers have highlighted the chemical composition change caused by the different juice production schemes as a potential opportunity to obtain different value-added products and biorefinery schemes. Thus, the aims of this review paper are related to (i) reviewing different orange fruit processing pathways, (ii) analyzing several OPW chemical compositions reported in the open literature, (iii) providing a summary of OPW extraction pathways for bioactive compounds production, and (iv) evaluating the effect of applying different extraction methods on bioactive compound extraction performance. This review includes a description of the OPW matrix, market insights, packaging, physicochemical characterization, processing technologies, and suggested biorefinery approaches. Finally, different extraction methods for obtaining bioactive compounds from OPW are compared. As a result, the supercritical fluid extraction process has the highest extraction performance and selectivity since this method extracted a high amount of hesperidin (8.18 g/kg OPW db.). In conclusion, OPW is a source of bioactive compounds and valuable products that can be introduced in juice-producing factories to increase product portfolio or economic savings by changing the energy matrix.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Valorization of Agri-Food Waste Biomass for the Extraction of Bioactive Compounds)
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Open AccessArticle
Extraction of Cellulases Produced through Solid-State Fermentation by Trichoderma reesei CCT-2768 Using Green Coconut Fibers Pretreated by Steam Explosion Combined with Alkali
by
Alan O. Campos, Estéfani A. Asevedo, Pedro F. Souza Filho and Everaldo S. dos Santos
Biomass 2024, 4(1), 92-106; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4010005 - 2 Feb 2024
Abstract
The industrial processing of coconut to produce valuable foods, such as water and milk, generates large volumes of waste, especially the fruit shell. Despite this, material can be used in bioprocess applications, e.g., the production of enzymes, its recalcitrance hinders the cultivation of
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The industrial processing of coconut to produce valuable foods, such as water and milk, generates large volumes of waste, especially the fruit shell. Despite this, material can be used in bioprocess applications, e.g., the production of enzymes, its recalcitrance hinders the cultivation of microorganisms, and low productivity is usually achieved. In this study, the production of cellulolytic enzymes through solid-state fermentation (SSF) and their extraction was investigated using the green coconut fiber pretreated by steam explosion, followed by alkali. The fungus Trichoderma reesei CCT-2768 was cultivated, using an experimental design, to study the effect of the water activity and the amount of biomass in the reactor. The combination of the pretreatment strategies yielded more porous biomass, with less hemicellulose (5.38%, compared to 10.15% of the raw biomass) and more cellulose (47.77% and 33.96% in the pretreated and raw biomasses, respectively). The water activity significantly affected the production of cellulases, with maximum activity yielded at the highest investigated value (0.995). Lastly, the extraction of the enzymes from the cultivation medium was studied, and a 9 g/L NaCl solution recovered the highest CMCase and FPase activities (5.19 and 1.19 U/g, respectively). This study provides an important contribution to the valorization of the coconut residue through (i) the application of the steam explosion technology to optimize the production of cellulases using the SSF technology and (ii) their extraction using different solvents.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pretreatment, Enzymatic Hydrolysis, and Fermentation Applied to Ethanol from Lignocellulosic Biomasses)
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Open AccessReview
State of the Art Review of Attributes and Mechanical Properties of Hempcrete
by
Nima Asghari and Ali M. Memari
Biomass 2024, 4(1), 65-91; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass4010004 - 2 Feb 2024
Abstract
The global surge in environmental pollution, largely attributed to industrialization, has fueled a pressing need for sustainable solutions. In response, the construction sector is increasingly focusing on bio-based materials such as hemp, recognized for its low environmental footprint and prominent carbon-negative quality. As
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The global surge in environmental pollution, largely attributed to industrialization, has fueled a pressing need for sustainable solutions. In response, the construction sector is increasingly focusing on bio-based materials such as hemp, recognized for its low environmental footprint and prominent carbon-negative quality. As designers, housebuilders, and an environmentally conscious society pivot towards ecological alternatives to standard building materials, hempcrete emerges as a promising candidate. As a composite material mainly made from hemp hurd/shiv, water, and lime, hempcrete offers the ability to sequester carbon long after its incorporation into structures. As a result, the hemp cultivation process—which can be completed within less than four months—ensures that more carbon is absorbed during production and deployment than emitted, e.g., per one study, sequestration on the order of 300 kg of CO2 per m3 of hempcrete. In comparison to concrete, hempcrete offers a more sustainable footprint, given its recyclability post life cycle. This state-of-the-art review paper delves deep into different aspects of hempcrete, summarizing its multifaceted attributes, particularly its compressive strength. Based on the study conducted, the paper also suggests strategies to augment this strength, thereby transitioning hempcrete from a non-load-bearing material to one capable of shouldering significant weight. As architects and designers consistently strive to align their projects with high ecological standards, focusing not just on aesthetic appeal but also environmental compatibility, hempcrete becomes an increasingly fitting solution for the future of construction.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Systems for Biomass Crop Production and Use)
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