Conversion methods
CIBA focuses on thermochemical conversion, primarily through syngas and methanol synthesis.
There are two major routes to convert lignocellulose into biofuels and bio-products: thermochemical and biochemical conversions.
The thermochemical way is currently the superior and most logical choice because it saves much more of the carbon. Compared to the biochemical route, the disadvantage of a more complex methanol-to-jet fuel step is typically more than offset by the massive loss of biomass (lignin) that occurs in a purely biological fermentation process.
The thermochemical pathway: Gasification → Methanol → Kerosine (Jet Fuel).
This trajectory recently received ATSM certification – MtJ
Techno-economic studies (including those by the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory, or NREL) show that for dry, woody biomass such as Miscanthus, gasification—whether via methanol or directly via Fischer-Tropsch—yields a higher total kerosine output per ton of dry biomass than biochemical fermentation.
New technologies have been developed producing ‘black pellets’ and green-methanol from cellulosic feedstocks as a step in the conversion to bio kerosene (bio jet fuel).
Consequently, efficient pretreatment technology as offered by CIBA is of great importance for economically sustainable biorefineries.
The ambition of the EU is to realize 3.6-million-ton bio jet fuel in 2030 and CIBA wants to be part of this ambition.