When one speaks of an “advanced biofuels expert”, they are most often referring to experts who can assist with “second generation biofuels” as opposed to “first generation biofuels”. First generation biofuels, like biodiesel and ethanol, are generally made from food crops like virgin vegetable oils (soybean oil, canola oil, etc.) or sugar cane. Although there are exceptions, advanced biofuels are not generally derived from food crops, which often makes them a more attractive option for investment. These second generation biofuels are primarily derived from different types of biomass like woody crops, agricultural residues or a variety of different types of waste. However, there are exceptions to the idea that “food crops” only produce first generation feedstocks. An example is when a food crop has already fulfilled its food purpose and then becomes the feedstock of a second generation biofuel. A good example of this would be waste vegetable oil. WVO produces a second generation biofuel, being made from something that has already been used and is no longer fit for human consumption. Generally speaking, first generation biofuels are very easily extracted, using conventional technologies, while advanced biofuels are often more difficult to extract and use more complex technologies. This does not mean, however, that second generation biofuels cannot be burned directly. Several second generation biofuels, like switchgrass, are cultivated specifically to act as direct biomass.
Whether attempting to produce a first or second generation biofuel, it is very important to the success of the endeavor to make certain one fully understands the makeup and availability of the feedstock to be used, the processes which will be involved in the extraction of the feedstock and in the conversion of the feedstock to a biofuel, and to have a properly qualified advanced biofuels expert for guidance in the project. Large renewable energy and biochemical consulting firms certainly have experts in biofuels and renewable fuels, and the more common areas like biomaterials, biomass and biomass power, feedstocks, and bio-technologies. In these larger consulting groups, one will also find expertise in other biofuels like algae biofuels, aviation/biojet fuels, ethanol, cellulosic ethanol, advanced biofuels, biodiesel, renewable diesel, renewable natural gas, renewable and biochemicals, biogas, syngas, biochar, bio coals, biobutanol, pyrolysis oil, and producer gas, and wood pellets.
Lee Enterprises Consulting is the world’s premier bioeconomy consulting group, with over 100 highly qualified experts serving in all these areas. Take a look at our experts and the services we provide. Most of our experts are also available to advise and serve as expert witnesses in bioeconomy litigation matters. For the larger projects, we specialize in putting together full service, interdisciplinary teams with one point of contact. Call us at 1+ (501) 833-8511 or email us for more information.