A review of conversion of lignocellulose biomass to liquid transport fuels by integrated refining strategies

Due to the limitations on carbon emissions, many countries are seeking potential clean, renewable and sustainable energy and fuels. Conversion of lignocellulose biomass to liquid fuel is one of the research hotpots because biomass is a renewable and sustainable resource. This paper outlines an attractive strategy for the production of liquid transport fuels from lignocellulose biomass. Specifically, hemicellulose and cellulose are converted to C5 and C6 alkanes (bio-gasoline) and C8–C15 alkanes (aviation fuel) via C5/C6 platform molecules, and lignin is converted to arenes and cyclanes via phenolic monomers and dimers through hydrodeoxygenation. The focus is to review the state-of-the-art technologies for the preparation of platform molecules, the synthesis of light/heavy alkanes, lignin depolymerization and catalytic hydrodeoxygenation. In addition, major challenges and promising prospects are also pointed out for the future development of the conversion of lignocellulose biomass to liquid transport fuels. Integrated conversion is an attractive strategy for the production of hydrocarbon fuels from lignocellulose biomass. Hemicellulose and cellulose can be converted to bio-gasoline (C5 and C6 alkanes) and aviation fuel (C8–C15 alkanes) via C5/C6 platform molecules, and lignin can be converted to arenes and cyclanes via phenolic monomers and dimers through hydrodeoxygenation. This review provides a new perspective for utilization of lignocellulose biomass. [Display omitted] •Technologies for bio-gasoline production from hemicellulose and cellulose were summarized.•The state-of-the-art technologies for synthesis of aviation fuel were reviewed.•Lignin was proposed to be the feedstock of arenes and cyclanes.•Challenges and prospects of utilization of lignocellulose biomass were discussed.