Multi-objective optimization using life cycle assessment for biomass utilization in hydrothermal carbonization and gasification

Authors:
Open Access
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is an emerging waste-to-energy technology that offers a sustainable approach to biomass conversion. This research offers a comprehensive assessment of HTC through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and multi-objective optimization. Environmental consequences were evaluated using the TRACI 2.1 technique across essential categories: global warming potential (GWP), acidification, eutrophication, smog production, and ecotoxicity. Steam generation was recognized as the principal contributor to environmental burdens. Multi-objective optimization, executed by the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) and Pareto curve analysis, aimed to reconcile operational costs with environmental impact. The ideal solution attained a cost of 167.05 USD/h and an environmental impact of 179 kg CO₂-eq./h, exemplifying a proficient balance between economic and ecological objectives. A comparative review of current waste management technologies reveals that HTC produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting potential areas for enhancement, particularly in energy efficiency and liquid effluent treatment. The research underscores HTC’s viability as a scalable and pragmatic waste-to-energy technology. This study presents a comprehensive decision-support framework for sustainable process design, integrating Life Cycle Assessment with optimization, specifically tailored to lignocellulosic biomass sources such as Pinus radiata sawdust, rapeseed bran, and olive pomace. These findings enhance the progress of cleaner energy technologies and facilitate informed decision-making in the creation of environmentally and economically sustainable biomass conversion systems.

This publication has 41 references indexed in Scilit: