An Estimation of Biomass Potential and Location Optimization for Integrated Biorefineries in Germany: A Combined Approach of GIS and Mathematical Modeling

Abstract

Establishing the utilization of lignocellulosic biomass in integrated biorefineries can reduce environmental impacts and dependency on imported raw materials by substituting fossil-based products. Whereas energetic biomass utilization is common, chemical utilization is still poorly established, primarily due to the lack of feedstock availability. Hence, literature-based estimation and geographical mapping of biomass potentials are key to implementing successful production networks for biobased chemicals. Using the example of Germany, a geographical information system (GIS) analysis was conducted to allocate residual biomass potentials spatially. Based on the obtained GIS data model, a facility location optimization model was developed. The results of a location-allocation analysis for innovative biorefineries, which are integrated with biogas plants, showed an optimal location network for maximizing the amount of residue biomass covered. In a promising model scenario, each biorefinery has a maximum catchment radius of 23 km and a minimum input of 94,500 tonnes of dry matter per year (t DM/a) (31.5 kt DM/a × 3), allowing only existing biogas locations as locations for biorefineries. The results show that a mix of lignocellulosic residual biomass in certain areas can sustainably satisfy the demand for running 69 decentralized, integrated and multi-feed small-to-mid-scale biorefineries in Germany.