Open Access
Review
Solar Thermal Technologies for Biofuel Production: Recent Advances and Future Prospectus
Amit Kumar Sharma1, 2
Author Information
Submitted: 13 Aug 2024 | Revised: 3 Nov 2024 | Accepted: 7 Nov 2024 | Published: 11 Feb 2025
Abstract
Solar thermal biomass conversion technologies are gaining significant interest due to their cost-effectiveness and eco-friendly nature. In these systems, solar thermal heating replaces the traditional electrical heating source as the reactor, as used in conventional thermal technologies. This approach generates higher-calorific-value products with reduced CO2 emissions compared to standard thermal methods, effectively capturing intermittent solar energy and storing it in the form of solar fuels. This review discussess the integration of solar energy with conventional bioenergy production methods through thermal processes, including torrefaction, pyrolysis, gasification, and hydrothermal liquefaction. Recent advancements have highlighted the effective use of solar collectors, including Scheffler dishes, heliostats, and Fresnel lenses, in solar thermal bioconversion applications. Therefore, we comprehensively describe the advances in solar thermal biomass conversion technologies. The design and operational parameters for efficient solar thermal technologies are also discussed. Furthermore, the challenges and future prospectus of these technologies has are summarized. In conclusion, this review shows that the production of biofuels from various carboneous biomasses through solar thermal technologies represents a sustainable option for various energy applications.
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Keywords
References
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Volume 2, Issue 1How to Cite
Sharma, A. K. (2025). Solar Thermal Technologies for Biofuel Production: Recent Advances and Future Prospectus. Green Energy and Fuel Research, 2(1), 13–25. https://doi.org/10.53941/gefr.2025.100002
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