A review of conversion of lignocellulose biomass to liquid transport fuels by integrated refining strategies

Abstract Due to the limitations on carbon emissions, many countries are seeking potential clean, renewable and sustainable energy and fuels. Conversion of lignocellulose biomass to liquid fuel is one of the research hotpots because biomass is a renewable and sustainable resource. This paper outlines an attractive strategy for the production of liquid transport fuels from lignocellulose biomass. Specifically, hemicellulose and cellulose are converted to C5 and C6 alkanes (bio-gasoline) and C8–C15 alkanes (aviation fuel) via C5/C6 platform molecules, and lignin is converted to arenes and cyclanes via phenolic monomers and dimers through hydrodeoxygenation. The focus is to review the state-of-the-art technologies for the preparation of platform molecules, the synthesis of light/heavy alkanes, lignin depolymerization and catalytic hydrodeoxygenation. In addition, major challenges and promising prospects are also pointed out for the future development of the conversion of lignocellulose biomass to liquid transport fuels.