Design and Economic Analysis of a Thermochemical Lignocellulosic Biomass-to-Butanol Process

A novel continuous lignocellulosic biomass-to-butanol process using a thermochemical route and a mixed-alcohol synthesis catalyst has been developed. The process was designed and modeled using Aspen Plus and consists of major process steps such as biomass drying; indirect steam gasification; syngas cleanup and conditioning; mixed-alcohol synthesis over a modified methanol catalyst; alcohol separation; and utilities including cooling water, …