Bottlenecks and Opportunities in Applications of Irradiation-Based Technologies for Industrial Scale Waste Biomass Valorization

In light of the depletion of fossil fuel reserves and growing concerns regarding harm to the environment, it is imperative to shift towards a bioenergy-centric economy, which is more sustainable. As a feasible alternative to fuels and chemicals, biomass has been identified as a viable solution for it. Conversion of biomass to biofuels is done through various conventional heating techniques. Among these, irradiation-based technologies (gamma-ray radiation, electric field, microwave, and ultrasonication) lately attracted more attention on a global scale. In the context of mass production of the desired product (such as biofuels and value-added chemicals) is challenging because technology transfer from lab scale to industrial level is in the initial phases. Adopting these technologies requires consideration of many other aspects, such as economic and environmental sustainability. However, there are still several challenges for irradiation-based biorefineries. Silent characteristics such as rapid reaction, increased productivity, faster heating rates, better efficiency, and environmental friendliness make irradiation a more reliable technology. Acceptance of irradiation-based industry in the fossil-based industry is also challenging because of the feedstock supply, product composition, efficiency of resource recovery, quantity and cost of the product needed in the market demand, and techno-economic viability. This study thoroughly explains the techniques and concepts of these technologies, their current scenarios, bottlenecks, and future opportunities.