Thermo-economic evaluation and optimization of the thermo-chemical conversion of biomass into methanol

In a carbon and resources constrained world, thermo-chemical conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into fuels and chemicals is regarded as a promising alternative to fossil resources derived products. Methanol is one potential product which can be used for the synthesis of various chemicals or as a fuel in fuel cells and internal combustion engines. This study focuses on the evaluation and optimization of the thermodynamic and economic performance of methanol production from biomass by applying process integration and optimization techniques. Results reveal the importance of the energy integration and in particular of the cogeneration of electricity for the efficient use of biomass. •A thermo-economic model for biomass conversion into methanol is developed.•Process integration and multi-objective optimization techniques are applied.•Results reveal the importance of energy integration for electricity co-generation.