Title: Variations in biomass transport cost of cellulosic biorefineries

Authors: Rajdeep Golecha

Addresses: 114 Mill Trail Dr, Sugarland, Houston, TX 77498, USA

Abstract: While studies have provided models for variations in biomass yield density, there is a gap in understanding the overall implication of variations in biomass yield density and transportation index on composite biomass transportation cost. This study bridges these gaps. Using a theoretical biomass transport model, the implication of variations in biomass cost as a result of variations in yield density and unit transport cost is analysed. The focus of this study is to develop a biomass transport cost model that accounts for the effect of incentives to farmers, farmer participation, and biorefinery size on biomass transport cost, and then understand the implication of variations in biomass availability on biomass transport cost. The study finds that cellulosic biorefineries will be exposed to 10-20% variation in biomass transport cost as a result of variations in biomass yield density and oil price.

Keywords: corn stover; supply market structure; biomass cost modelling; cellulosic biofuels; biomass transport; cellulosic biorefineries; yield density; unit transport costs; farmer incentives; farmer participation; biorefinery size; biomass availability; oil prices.

DOI: 10.1504/IJISD.2017.086865

International Journal of Innovation and Sustainable Development, 2017 Vol.11 No.4, pp.309 - 316

Received: 09 Oct 2015
Accepted: 30 Jan 2016
Published online: 02 Oct 2017 *

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