Biomass
Articles tagged with Biomass
Mid-domain effect and wooded habitats jointly shape Mediterranean reptile communities
Hemp waste biocomposites offer a lower-carbon alternative for packaging and agricultural films
New study finds anaerobic digestion of hemp hurd-based bioplastic systems delivers the best environmental outcome, generating up to 6.1 kg less CO2 emissions per 1 kg mulch film treated. The production process significantly affects the final carbon footprint of biocomposites.
Bamboo waste treatment method improves strength and insulation in green building composites
A mild chemical strategy enhances interfacial bonding and pore structure in biomass-based magnesium cement materials, leading to improved mechanical strength and thermal insulation. The approach promotes more uniform pore distribution, stabilizes the foam structure within the composite, and reduces environmental burden.
Dying aquatic plants present a double-edged sword for lakes: fueling pollution while locking away carbon
A new study reveals that declining floating-leaf plants release harmful nutrients, but also trigger a microbial process that converts simple organic matter into resilient, long-term carbon storage. This process enhances the lake's ability to sequester carbon through a microbial carbon pump.
Functionalized microalgae emerge as versatile bioproducts for next-generation biomedical applications
Microalgae are transformed into functionalized composite bioproducts for precision diagnosis, targeted therapy, and integrated theranostics. They offer exceptional biological properties for biomedical engineering, including molecular loading, active movement, and intense autofluorescence for imaging applications.
Biochar-based catalyst converts biomass into valuable chemicals under mild conditions
Researchers developed a highly efficient biochar-supported catalyst that converts biomass-derived chemicals into valuable industrial products under remarkably mild conditions. The study demonstrates the untapped potential of biochar as an active partner in catalysis.
Synergistic ultramicropore-confined and electronic-state modulation strategies in sustainable lignin-derived hard carbon for robust sodium-ion batteries
Researchers develop synergistic ultramicropore-confined and electronic-state modulation strategies in sustainable lignin-derived hard carbon to achieve robust sodium-ion batteries. The material exhibits high reversible capacity and initial Coulombic efficiency, making it a promising anode candidate.
Lehigh University professor Israel E. Wachs elected to National Academy of Engineering
Wachs was recognized for his work on mixed oxide catalysts that guide the rational design of solid catalysts for air pollution remediation, sustainable energy, fuels, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. His election to the NAE honors his contributions to chemical engineering and the modern field of operando molecular spectroscopy.
Researchers identify cleaner ways to burn biomass using new environmental impact metric
A new study provides practical guidance for cleaner energy production by comparing open burning, kilowatt scale grate combustion, megawatt scale grate combustion, and circulating fluidized bed boiler technology. Biomass combustion remains a widely used thermochemical pathway, but it can release harmful gaseous pollutants. The research ...
Waste chitin transformed into high-performance porous carbons for greenhouse gas recovery
Researchers have developed a chemical-free method to upcycle waste chitin into high-performance porous carbons, which can efficiently capture and release hydrocarbons. The materials' pore structure can be precisely tuned through steam activation time, leading to improved adsorption and desorption performance.
Waste to wealth: converting agricultural residues into soil saviors
The conversion of waste lignocellulosic biomass into high-value soil amendments can enhance soil structure, increase water retention, and lock away carbon. Several technological pathways are explored, including slow pyrolysis, mild torrefaction, and solid-state fermentation.
Hydrogen bonds turn sweetener into lignin bodyguard, boosting biomass yield 42%
Mannitol outperforms other green additives in slowing re-polymerisation of cellulose-lignin linkages, cutting molecular weight and raising hydrogenolysis monomer yield. The additive forms an average of 28 hydrogen bonds per simulation box, effectively capping sites where carbocations normally form.
Discarded cigarette butts transformed into high performance energy storage materials
Researchers have created a method to convert waste cigarette butts into nitrogen and oxygen co-doped nanoporous biochar with exceptional performance as an electrode material for supercapacitors. The material achieved a specific capacitance of nearly 345 farads per gram, demonstrating its potential for real-world applications.
New review shows how biomass can deliver low-carbon gaseous fuels at scale
A new review highlights how converting biomass into gaseous fuels like hydrogen, methane, and syngas can play a critical role in the global transition to low-carbon energy systems. Biomass-based gaseous fuels can be used for electricity generation, industrial heat, transportation, and as building blocks for chemicals and synthetic fuels.
Safer receipt paper from wood
Researchers at EPFL developed thermal paper coatings using lignin, a major component of wood, which have low or no toxic signatures. The new formulations match commercial thermal paper performance while showing improved safety profiles.
The perfect plastic? Plant-based, fully saltwater degradable, zero microplastics
Researchers at RIKEN have developed a new plant-based plastic made from cellulose that rapidly degrades in natural environments, eliminating microplastic waste. The biodegradable plastic can be adjusted in strength and flexibility with added choline chloride, providing a practical solution to ocean pollution.
Unlock the power of nature: how biomass can transform climate mitigation
This webinar discusses the potential of bio-based carbon capture to deliver up to 6.7 gigatonnes of CO2-equivalent mitigation annually by 2050. It explores how biomass can transform climate mitigation, offering scalable and equitable pathways to net-zero.
Harnessing nature’s carbon engine: Biomass emerges as a pillar of climate mitigation
Bio-based carbon capture offers a 'triple win' for people, planet, and productivity through decentralized systems cutting synthetic fertilizer use by 20-40% and boosting crop yields by 10-25%. Long-term incorporation of biomass into soils via compost and biochar increases soil organic carbon by 10-40%, improving fertility and resilience.
Researchers find promising adaptations to climate change in tropical forests
Researchers at Colorado State University found that some tropical forest plants are adapting to drought by growing longer root systems, potentially helping reduce vulnerability. The study's findings suggest flexibility under drying conditions may rescue the forest, but long-term implications remain uncertain.
Biochar shows powerful potential to build cleaner and more sustainable cities worldwide
Biochar's applications in urban areas include reducing volatile organic compounds, improving cement durability, increasing crop yields, and removing heavy metals from water. However, large-scale adoption faces challenges such as standardized production methods and economic incentives.
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Prof. Weihong Yang explores innovative strategies to replace fossil-based materials with sustainable, bio-based graphite in lithium-ion batteries and other electrochemical systems. The webinar provides key insights into converting bioprecursors into fossil-free graphite.
Eyes above the trees
Researchers at Kyoto University used LiDAR to measure the crown structure of 4,326 canopy trees across 23 forest census plots in Japan. The analysis revealed that canopy trees account for about 75% of total forest biomass across diverse forest types, providing a foundation for estimating total forest biomass and supporting sustainable ...
Identifying the best high-biomass sorghum hybrids based on biomass yield potential and feedstock quality affected by nitrogen fertility management under various environments
Researchers evaluated 13 sorghum hybrids for biomass yield potential and feedstock quality under various nitrogen fertilization levels. H1 and H13 were identified as top performers, exhibiting superior biomass yield and energy-rich feedstock composition.
Rattan waste turned into high-performance microreactor for water purification
Researchers developed a gravity-driven biochar microreactor from rattan, achieving ultrahigh flux and complete degradation of common pollutants. The system activated peroxymonosulfate through a non-radical pathway, with boundary-like defects as primary active sites.
Global analysis reveals how biochar supercharges composting and cuts greenhouse gases
A new meta-analysis of 125 studies reveals that adding biochar to composting systems boosts compost quality and slashes harmful greenhouse gas emissions by up to 51%. Biochar improves aeration, holds nutrients, and creates a favorable habitat for beneficial microbes, accelerating the composting process.
1000-litre “corn-to-carrier” demo turns stover into 10.6 g L⁻¹ microbial lipids
Researchers transform corn stover into microbial lipids using alkaline storage, gentle steam, and squeeze detoxification. The process delivers high sugar recovery and lipid content, reducing water demand by one-third compared to conventional methods.
Revolutionizing bioplastics: a microbial platform for fully bio-based long-chain polyesters
Scientists have developed an end-to-end microbial process converting renewable plant oils into sustainable polyesters comparable to petroleum-based plastics. The two-step process achieved record-setting yields and productivity, paving the way for a scalable and environmentally viable alternative to fossil fuels.
Bio-based nanocellulose aerogels offer sustainable thermal insulation with fire safety
Researchers develop multifunctional aerogels combining thermal insulation, flame retardancy, and mechanical robustness using bio-based nanocellulose. The resulting aerogels exhibit low thermal conductivity, high flame resistance, and impressive strength and flexibility.
New review highlights advances in catalytic conversion of lignin into biofuels and chemicals
Researchers from Southeast University explore recent advances in catalytic hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) for converting lignin-derived compounds into biofuels and high-value chemicals. Key findings include metal sulfides, noble metal catalysts, and non-noble metal catalysts showing high activity and aromatic selectivity.
New UMaine research could help lower prescription drug costs
Researchers at the University of Maine Forest Bioproducts Research Institute have discovered a sustainable method to produce (S)-3-hydroxy-γ-butyrolactone, a crucial building block in pharmaceuticals. This approach could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and production costs by up to 60%.
Highly sensitive, next-generation wearable pressure sensors inspired by cat whiskers
Researchers developed novel biomisic fiber/sodium alginate aerogels for flexible pressure sensors, mimicking cat vibrissae and FSCs to achieve excellent sensitivity, durability, and rapid response. The sensors demonstrated promising applications in human physiological monitoring, motion analysis, and sports analytics.
New global database opens the door for better understanding of terrestrial ecosystem productivity
A new study and database provide an unprecedented resource for understanding Earth's land systems, including net primary production (NPP) and its role in carbon cycling. The database addresses methodological limitations of previous databases, offering harmonized NPP measurements across six major biome types and spanning all continents.
Green chemistry breakthrough: Microwave-assisted synthesis of biomass-derived N-doped carbon dots for metal ion sensing
This study introduces a novel method of synthesizing nitrogen-doped carbon dots using microwave technology from biomass, providing a green and effective approach to metal ion detection. The research offers a clear path to more efficient and environmentally friendly metal ion sensing.
Shrub waste spins supercapacitor gold for zinc-ion storage
A discarded ornamental shrub can now power electric buses thanks to a new material that triples the energy density of previous devices. The material, called PHAC, shows high surface area and mesopore volume, enabling rapid ion transport and long cycle life.
Bioenergy-CCS combo could erase 780 Gt CO₂ and salvage young coal plants, review finds
A new study finds that retrofitting young coal plants to co-fire biomass and capture up to 99% of resulting CO2 could eliminate 1.6 billion tonnes of emissions annually by 2040. Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) could deliver between 30 and 780 gigatonnes of cumulative CO2 removal this century.
Fossil-free graphite from biomass for greener process industries
Researchers explore converting bioprecursors into fossil-free graphite, providing sustainable alternatives to traditional materials. This transition has significant implications for industrial decarbonization and the development of eco-friendly technologies.
Study finds early signs of widespread coastal marsh decline
Researchers developed a model to detect early signs of marsh decline using satellite observations, identifying vulnerable areas along Georgia's coast. The study found belowground biomass has declined across 72% of Georgia's coastal marsh since 2014.
Can enzymes from fungi be used to extract plant components for biofuels and bioplastics?
Researchers discovered that fungal enzymes cellobiose dehydrogenase (CDH) and lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase (LPMO) can efficiently degrade plant biomass, allowing for the extraction of valuable components. This breakthrough suggests a promising method for using diverse, non-edible plant biomass in biotechnology applications.
Frontier advances in humins research: Exploring key challenges and opportunities in biomass refining
The study systematically examines humins formation mechanisms from cellulose and hemicellulose feedstocks, highlighting the role of lignin in pseudo-lignin formation. It provides insights into factors influencing humins generation and proposes strategies for inhibition and value-added applications.
Metal catalysts can be valuable, even when they aren’t precious
A team from The University of Osaka has developed an efficient non-precious metal catalyst for converting biomass-derived furfural to tetrahydrofurfuryl compounds, achieving high yields under mild conditions.
New satellite to weigh the world's forests
A new satellite developed by Chalmers University of Technology will help monitor and measure the world's forest biomass. The system enables precise measurements of forest carbon stocks, aiding efforts to combat climate change.
Difficult and costly energy transition unless the EU invests in biomass
Biomass is crucial for Europe's ability to reach its climate targets, providing both energy and negative emissions. Excluding biomass from the European energy system would increase costs by 169 billion Euros per year.
Revealing long-term changes in the marine environment and ecosystems of the Southern Ocean
A multidisciplinary survey in the eastern Indian sector of the Southern Ocean found that the southern boundary of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current has shifted southward, causing a change in water temperature and mac zooplankton composition. The survey also estimated the biomass of Antarctic krill in the area, with comparable results t...
Saturn's moon Titan could harbor life, but only a tiny amount, study finds
A recent study suggests that Saturn's moon Titan could support simple, microscopic life forms due to its abundant organic content. However, the amount of biomass that can exist in this environment is likely to be extremely limited, possibly only a few pounds.
Delhi air pollution worse than expected as water vapour skews figures
New Delhi's air pollution is more severe than previously estimated, with particles absorbing atmospheric water vapor leading to significant underestimation of particulate matter levels. The study highlights the importance of considering hygroscopic growth and its impact on air quality assessments.
New study reveals how reduced rainfall threatens plant diversity
A new study reveals that increased aridity leads to a decrease in plant species diversity in drylands. The research found that the biomass of dominant plant species can obscure this effect, and past extreme droughts strengthen the link between rainfall and species diversity.
Chemical looping turns environmental waste into fuel
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a low-carbon system that transforms materials like plastics and agricultural waste into syngas, producing high-quality chemicals and fuels. The technology achieves a purity of around 90% in a process that takes only a few minutes.
Biomass-derived catalyst powers up clean energy
Researchers developed a novel, high-performance biomass-derived catalyst for advanced energy storage devices, outperforming traditional options in ORR efficiency. The catalyst, derived from sustainable biomass, facilitates the removal of key reaction intermediates, boosting power density.
Harnessing microwave flow reaction to convert biomass into useful sugars
Kyushu University researchers create a microwave flow reaction device that converts complex polysaccharides into simple monosaccharides, producing glucose. The device utilizes a continuous-flow hydrolysis process, where cellobiose is passed through a sulfonated carbon catalyst heated using microwaves.
International clean energy initiative launches global biomass resource assessment
The Global Biomass Resource Assessment provides groundbreaking data on current and future sustainable biomass supplies worldwide. The assessment aims to explore potential sources of biomass for a circular and sustainable global bioeconomy, supporting clean fuels, chemicals, materials, and products.
Microwaving waste cooking oil into useful chemicals
A team from Kyushu University has developed a zeolite catalyst that can be heated using microwaves to speed up the conversion of fatty acid esters to olefins. This process improves energy efficiency and reduces carbon dioxide production, offering a more sustainable chemical industry.
Spurring more biofilm growth for efficient wastewater treatment
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University found that foaming plastic carriers promote 44 times more biofilm formation, enhancing wastewater treatment. Adding waste biomass further improves performance, especially in nitrate removal during the moving bed biofilm reactor process.
Fisheries research overestimates fish stocks
Researchers found that stock assessments have often been overly optimistic, with a third of sustainably fished stocks classified as overfished. They call for simpler models and greater use of the precautionary principle to protect fish stocks.
Mozambican Woodlands could store more than double the carbon previously estimated
New research from an international team of scientists found that Mozambican miombo woodlands store 1.5 to 2.2 times more carbon than previously estimated, with potential storage of 13.6 billion tonnes of equivalent carbon dioxide. This suggests a critical role for these ecosystems in climate change mitigation.
Study projects major changes in North Atlantic and Arctic marine ecosystems due to climate change
Research predicts significant shifts in marine fish communities in the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans as a result of climate warming. The study projects a decline in the most abundant species and an increase in species richness but with fewer fish overall.
From waste to value: The right electrolytes can enhance glycerol oxidation
Researchers have found that choosing the right electrolyte significantly increases the efficiency of the glycerol oxidation reaction in PEC reactors. The study used a PEC cell with photoanodes made of nanoporous bismuth vanadate and tested acidic electrolytes, finding that certain cations and anions improve photocurrent, stability, and...
Melanin from cuttlefish ink as a sustainable biomass resource
Researchers from Chiba University develop sustainable method for producing biodegradable polymers using cuttlefish ink melanin. Decomposition products are converted into polymeric materials with potential applications in circular economies.
Mashed up purple marine bacteria makes an excellent eco-friendly fertilizer
A new study by RIKEN CSRS shows that biomass from purple photosynthetic marine bacterium Rhodovulum sulfidophilum is an excellent nitrogen fertilizer, effective as inorganic synthetic fertilizers but with lower environmental side effects. The biomass boosts plant growth without altering soil pH or salinity.
Webb named Fellow of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers
Erin Webb, lead at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, elected Fellow of ASABE for significant contributions to sustainable agricultural and forest resource use. Her research focuses on biomass supply chain and logistics, circular agriculture, and renewable energy.