R.W. Jessup
Texas A&M University,
United States
Keywords: biorefinery, biosilica, biofuel, torrefaction, C-sequestration
Summary:
Diverse biomass feedstocks have been evaluated for potential as multi-use biorefining platforms. Bio-based materials of interest have included biosilica, bioplastics, biofuels, torrefied biomass amendments (TBAs), and leaf protein concentrates (LPCs). Many feedstock biorefineries have further integrated traditional commodities (forage, grain, etc.), and a small subset further possess perennial rooting structures enhancing long-term C-sequestration and soil health restoration. Examples of recent program outputs include: 1) novel perennial sorghum hybrids with both high aboveground (>15 dry T/Ha) and belowground (>20 dry T/Ha) yields, 2) novel, perennial perennial millet hybrids with high biomass (> 20 dry T/Ha) and optimized bioethanol conversion potential, and 3) TBA conversion platforms to generate amendments with organic fertilizer potential (> 3% N), soilless media component potential (water holding capacity > 500%, CEC > 1000, etc.), and additional C-sequstration strategy. Selected perennial sorghum feedstocks have further been improved to produce 4-10 times the belowground biomass (15-25 T/Ha) compared to annual cereal crops, including potential to increase total organic carbon belowground by 1% in 4-5 growing seasons. These combined feedstocks, bio-based materials, and sustainable ecosystem services provide immense future opportunities towards incorporation with emerging circular economies.