Corn biomass as a feedstock for biorefinery: a bibliometric analysis of research on bioenergy, biofuel and value-added products

Abstract

Limited research has been dedicated to exploring the potential reuse and creation of value-added products from corn stover. Existing gaps in current research underscore the need for waste biorefineries that adhere to the principles of a circular bioeconomy to maximize the value of corn stover. This review uses bibliometric analysis from the past decade to examine the potential and pathways for converting corn stover into energy and value-added products within the biorefinery framework. The data were processed using the Web of Science® database and analyzed with the VosViewer® bibliometric software's, Bibliometrix package in R and Gephi, generating keyword-based maps. A total of 2557 experimental articles and 30 reviews on corn stover research were analyzed. The bibliometric study revealed that the primary research focuses on pretreatment technologies for converting corn stover into value-added products, bioenergy and biofuels. The main technologies employed include acid, alkaline and enzymatic hydrolysis, as well as torrefaction anaerobic digestion and steam explosion. The pretreatment processes yield sugars, xylooligosaccharides and organic acids. Additionally, the studies explored the use of corn stover biochar for soil remediation and adsorption processes. This review aims to enhance the understanding of technological pathways explored in previous research, contributing to the evaluation of sustainable processes for utilizing corn stover byproducts. Ultimately, it promotes environmentally conscious agroindustry practices that align with circular economy principles and sustainable development.