An integrated biorefinery model for optimized 2-vinylfuran production

Abstract

We integrate reverse reaction pathway screening, process design and simulation, and process assessment to ensure the technical feasibility, economic viability, and environmental sustainability of biorefineries. We propose an efficient production process for 2-vinylfuran that fully utilizes second-generation biomass. Economic assessment indicates that this process can produce 2-vinylfuran at a competitive cost of $1021 per ton when the production capacity reaches 366 kt/year, supported by reasonable policy initiatives. Sensitivity analysis using Monte Carlo simulations suggests that the investment risk for the 2-vinylfuran production project could be as low as 26% when scaled up to 500 kt/year. A comparative life cycle assessment highlights significant environmental benefits for 2-vinylfuran: its production reduces global warming potential (GWP) and non-renewable energy use (NREU) by over 42% and 30%, respectively, compared to styrene production. Furthermore, the carbon selectivity and carbon yield of the 2-vinylfuran production process reach as high as 25.2% and 36.2%.