Critical Quality Attributes of Biomass that Affect Downstream Conversion

Biomass exists in nature as lignocellulosic or non-lignocellulosic forms. For more than five decades, renewable biomass has been in the spotlight globally as it represents an abundant and carbon-neutral feedstock for the production of energy, liquid fuels, and commodity chemicals. A range of biomass properties, either physical (type of biomass, particle size, and shape, moisture content, energy density, bulk density, hygroscopicity, flowability), compositional (structural carbohydrate, lignin, ash, elemental content, inhibitors), or structural (cellulose crystallinity, biomass porosity, degree of polymerization, surface area), can all contribute to the approach to biomass conversion. Understanding the principles and contributing factors impacting downstream processes is crucial for effective biomass utilization in biorefineries. Addressing the complex nature of biomass conversion requires an understanding of key material attributes. The goal of this chapter is to discuss the principles and factors impacting biomass conversion and offer perspective on the criteria for which critical quality attributes might be considered for selecting a conversion method. Furthermore, this chapter points to gaps in knowledge where future research may shed light.