Technical Aspects and New Developments in First-Generation, Second-Generation and Third-Generation Biorefineries

The biorefinery is a system that uses biomass feedstock to manufacture biobased products. Based on the feedstock utilized, the biorefineries can be categorized as first generation (edible biomass), second generation (lignocellulosic biomass) and third generation (biomass of algae), which produce both high-value low volume (HVLV) and low-value high volume (LVHV) products of commercial importance. The present chapter deals with elaboration on the technological steps for bioconversion of feedstocks to biofuels and biochemicals. Furthermore, the recent advancements in valorization of all the substrates (first, second and third generations) to biofuels and biochemicals have been discussed. In order to develop sustainable biorefineries, the challenges faced by the biorefineries along with their potential solutions have also been reported.