ABSTRACT
This chapter explores biofuel and biomass energy security, while demonstrating the classifications as stipulated in the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program, i.e., the first generation or conventional biofuel and the second generation of advanced biofuels, namely: cellulosic biofuel (D-3); biomass-based diesel (D-4); advanced biofuel (D-5); renewable fuel (non-advanced/conventional) (D-6); and cellulosic diesel (D-7). The chapter describes the collection of biomass from landfill organic materials via anaerobic digestion, agriculture, and aquaculture. It subsequently describes the main waste-to-energy processes: Thermal (direct combustion, incineration), thermo-chemical (gasification, pyrolysis) and biochemical (composting, fermentation, anaerobic digestion). The chapter further discusses the production, uses, and commercial information of bioenergy, including bioethanol, biomethane, biodiesel, biogas, and others. Discussions on the food vs fuel dilemma are made.
Security and safety issues are discussed, together with highlights on the advantages and risks. Furthermore, recent innovations and research topics are presented, including the increasing efficiency of algae fuel and the commercialization of cellulosic fuel.
