Abstract

Energy from biomass is increasing throughout the world as concerns relative to energy supply and environmental impacts grow. Biomass is an underutilized, renewable resource that can potentially replace fossil fuels as the primary energy supply. Historically, biomass has merely been used for heating. Today's developing energy technologies are broadening the uses of biomass well beyond simple combustion for heating. The flexibility of biomass as an input to conversion processes provides the ability to generate a wide range of energy products. These products include ethanol, fuel gas, steam, electric power, bio-diesel, and, through synthesis applications, a suite of chemical intermediates and products. Technologies being developed or adapted for use with biomass feedstocks include gasification, pyrolysis, anaerobic digestion, and advanced fermentation from lignocellulosics. This article provides an overview of each of these technologies and their potential uses as a part of the world's energy supply.