Biomethanol: possibilities towards a bio-based economy

Biomass conversion into energy and chemical vectors represents an interesting direction for reducing dependence on fossil fuels and safeguarding the environment. It signifies a viable approach from an economic as well as environmental perspective. Methanol is one such vector that is extensively used as an energy source and a raw material for various value-added products. Methanol synthesized from fossil fuels such as natural gas and coal as raw materials is not sustainable and therefore, much interest has been diverted towards utilizing biomass for biomethanol synthesis. Thermochemical conversion, biological routes and other novel strategies demonstrate an effective pathway for biomethanol production. Biomass-based feedstocks appear to be an ideal substrate for such pathways. Nevertheless, the concept of biomethanol refinery still seems to be in infancy considering the hurdles, both technical and economical, that impair the prospects of its commercialization. This article discusses the various routes and substrates reported till date for biomass-based methanol production and their associated techno-economic assessments. An overview of challenges and future prospects of the technology is also discussed.