ABSTRACT
The solar-to-biomass conversion process involves interactions among numerous factors, leading to different types of biomass. This chapter describes the principles of solar energy conversion, biomass types and their properties, and the role of land use for crop production. These concepts help to understand the quantity and quality of global biomass resources. Plant composition and physical properties have a significant impact on biomass energy content. Proximate analysis is primarily important in thermochemical applications, because it describes the general evolution of biomass combustion products. Categories of waste materials that qualify as biorenewable resources include municipal solid wastes (MSWs), agricultural and forest residues and their by-products, and manure. Energy crops contain significant quantities of one or more of four important energy-rich components: oils, sugars, starches, and lignocellulose (fiber). The United States benefits from large biomass resources. The development of fast-growing dedicated energy crops and algae could help address concerns over land use.
