Thermochemical conversion of biomass is based on decomposition at high temperatures (and sometimes high pressures), and subsequent chemical conversion can be carried out in the presence of catalysts. Conventional (traditional) processes are combustion, gasification, and carbonization. The associated products are heat, combustible gases, and charcoal. This course is intended to explain the principles of both traditional and novel thermochemical conversion processes and discuss the various routes related to the desired products. Biomass sources and their characteristics are considered with special attention to environmental impacts and sustainability aspects. Although biological conversion process routes are not discussed in this course, the relationship between biological and chemical process routes will be clarified. In the concept of modern biorefinery, both processes are often found.
Learning activities will be carried out through various methods, consisting of: interactive lectures, question-based learning, discussions, and structured assignments. Assessment will be carried out continuously through a series of exercises/quizzes, group discussions, midterm exams, and final exams. The language used in teaching and learning activities is Indonesian.
Course Learning Outcomes
Understand the chemical characteristics of biomass and the basic principles of thermochemical biomass conversion technology.
Apply these principles in the design of biomass thermochemical conversion systems to produce fuels and chemicals.
Thermochemical conversion through biomass gasification
Thermochemical conversion through biomass liquefaction
Physical and chemical analysis of biomass feed and biomass thermochemical conversion products
Pyrolysis for the manufacture of biofuels and chemicals
Biomass gasification for the manufacture of synthetic gases
Liquefaction of biomass for the manufacture of biofuels
Recommended References
Robert C. Brown, Thermochemical Processing of Biomass: Conversion into Fuels, Chemicals, and Power, 2nd edition, Wiley Series in Renewable Resources, 2019
Mark Crocker, Laurie Peter, Ferdi Schuth, Tim Z. Zhao, Heinz Frei, Thermochemical Conversion of Biomass to Liquid Fuels and Chemicals, RSC Publishing, 1st edition, 2010
James Clark and Fabien Deswarte, Introduction to Chemicals from Biomass, 2nd edition, John Wiley and Sons, 2015
Piet Schenkelaars, Value-Added Chemicals from Biomass, Pira International Ltd, 2012