The valorization of lignocellulosic or animal biomass through the production of monomers or gaseous fuels represents a promising approach to addressing the challenges related to environmental sustainability and the use of renewable resources. Lignocellulosic biomass, including agricultural residues, forest residues, and other plant sources, offers a tremendous opportunity to diversify energy sources and reduce the environmental impact associated with fossil fuels. Through advanced transformation processes, these biomasses can be converted into monomers, which are the fundamental building blocks for the production of materials and chemicals, or into gaseous fuels such as biomethane and hydrogen, which can be used as cleaner alternatives to traditional fuels.
Among the addressed technologies in this research line, one can mention the hydrothermal liqufaction of biomasses, the aqueous phase reforming of waste waters to produce renewable hydrogen, the depolymerization of lignin to produce biofuels and biosolvents, the recovery and depolymerization of waste plastics, the pyrolysis, gasification carbonization or anaeorbic fermantation of biomasses, depending on their nature and on the target products.
These processes yield high-value-added products while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting the transition towards a circular economy. Research and development remain crucial for improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of such processes and exploring new biomass valorization strategies. Additionally, promoting collaboration among industrial sectors, governments, and research institutes is necessary to foster the adoption of these technologies and facilitate a transition towards a more sustainable energy future.