ABSTRACT
Comparative economic and environmental assessment of alternative biofuel production options requires the application of suitable simulation and modelling tools, to accurately represent the performances of process technologies. The production of biofuels from sugarcane usually defaults to bioethanol, considering the current production volumes and potential to expand this industry on a global scale. Furthermore, commercial strategies are underway to expand the production of ethanol from sugarcane by conversion of lignocelluloses. However, several alternative biofuels may be produced from sugarcane lignocelluloses that may offer improved market access, especially for synfuels, n-butanol and jet fuels. The chapter considers the technological, economic and environmental aspects of these alternative biofuels, especially for their production from sugarcane lignocelluloses in Africa. The impact of annexing such biofuel production to existing sugar mills, with integration of facilities for steam and electricity production, is also considered.
