Biomass feedstocks are emerging sources of raw materials for chemical production with potentially lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than traditional feedstocks. Deploying low-carbon chemical technologies that use renewable feedstocks offers promising benefits. However, successful implementation requires more considerations beyond the facility boundary, including supply and transport limitations. With the ongoing effort to decarbonize chemical production and fierce competition, it is essential for chemical companies to account for high uncertainties and their impacts on the biomass supply chain.
A notable feature of biomass feedstocks is their temporal and spatial variability since each crop only grows in certain areas and is harvested during a specific season. Unlike most current petrochemical plants that run on a steady supply of raw materials with relatively consistent properties, biorefineries have to address unstable feedstock quantities and compositions as a result of the variable temporal-spatial patterns in supply. Moreover, ever-changing demands and unforeseen disruptions add to the complexity of supply chain planning and product management decision-making.
To combat these issues, modular manufacturing has been established as...
Would you like to access the complete CEP Article?
No problem. You just have to complete the following steps.
You have completed 0 of 2 steps.
-
Log in
You must be logged in to view this content. Log in now.
-
AIChE Membership
You must be an AIChE member to view this article. Join now.
Copyright Permissions
Would you like to reuse content from CEP Magazine? It’s easy to request permission to reuse content. Simply click here to connect instantly to licensing services, where you can choose from a list of options regarding how you would like to reuse the desired content and complete the transaction.