Optimizing the Lignocellulosic Biomass-to-Ethanol Supply Chain: A Case Study for the Midwestern United States

摘要

A mixed integer linear programming (MILP) problem formulation is proposed to optimize the net present value of a biomass-to-ethanol supply chain. Facility locations and capacities are determined simultaneously with biomass harvest and distribution. Sensitivity analysis and robustness are performed for a 9-state region of the United States case study to elucidate the impact of price uncertainty on a burgeoning biorefinery industry that may be affected by policy. Near term technology is favored for biomass collection and conversion to ethanol.