Lignocellulosic conversion to ethanol: the environmental life cycle impacts

摘要

1. An LCA analysis of ethanol conversion process was carried out taking account of feedstock handling, pre-hydrolysis, hydrolysis and fermentation, bioethanol recovery, and wastewater treatment. 2. Among the ethanol conversion processes, the pre-hydrolysis step contributes significantly to the environmental burdens. 3. The use of sulphuric acid and process steam, as well as electricity, are identified as the main sources for the environmental burdens that contribute to climate change and ozone depletion.