Decomposition of cellulose into carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen (H2) is a well known process, and C. carboxidivorans can utilize these gases and produce a good quality fuel, biobutanol. CO, CO2 and H2 mixture can also be prepared from coal and water as well, so the seasonality of agricultural raw material supplement can be solved without storing of large amounts of biodegradable starting materials.
It is a good chance to turn the non-food agricultural wastes into liquid biofuel. Producing gases (CO,CO2 and H2) simplify the technological system, because the fuel synthesis reactor will supply with the same materials not various kinds and state of forms of biomass, and biomass is transformed separatedly into these gases.
Yes, This just does not solve the storing problem of raw material, it also addresses the CO2 and CO pollution issue, but like any other process the efficiency is fully dependent on the conversion efficiency of these gases to solvents. Analysis of energy input to form these gases from agriculture raw waste and further conversion of these gases to butanol should be done clearly... otherwise, we will end up generating CO2 and CO for just few litres of butanol. Finally energy-energy balance is needed for a process to be feasible both technologically and economically.
Dear Lalitla,
If CO and CO2 is generated from agricultural materials (mainly), then those raw materials was taken CO2 from the atmosphere to build themself, in the dsame amoutn as will be able tor ecover as CO2 and CO and turn into BuOH - finally into CO2. If we start form coal, you are right, the CO2 balance is not as good.
Dear Kotai,
Yes, I do agree with you. But, the conversion efficiency should be 100% (gases to solvents) only then balance can be attained. My view is on conversion efficiency and energy input output.
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