Torrefaction of Lignocellulosic Biomass: A Pathway to Renewable Energy, Circular Economy, and Sustainable Agriculture

Salini Chandrasekharan Nair, Vineetha John, Renu Geetha Bai () and Timo Kikas ()
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Salini Chandrasekharan Nair: Chair of Biosystems Engineering, Institute of Forestry and Engineering, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 56, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
Vineetha John: Aspen Heights British School, Al Bahya, Abu Dhabi 137352, United Arab Emirates
Renu Geetha Bai: Chair of Biosystems Engineering, Institute of Forestry and Engineering, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 56, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
Timo Kikas: Chair of Biosystems Engineering, Institute of Forestry and Engineering, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 56, 51014 Tartu, Estonia

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 17, 1-28

Abstract: Torrefaction, a mild thermochemical pretreatment process, is widely acknowledged as an effective strategy for enhancing the energy potential of lignocellulosic biomass. This review systematically evaluates the technological, environmental, and economic dimensions of lignocellulosic biomass torrefaction with the objective of clarifying its critical role in sustainable energy production and circular economy frameworks. Drawing from recent literature, the review covers process fundamentals, feedstock characteristics and operational parameters—typically 200–300 °C, heating rates below 50 °C per minute, ~1 h residence time, and oxygen-deficient conditions. The impacts of torrefaction on fuel properties, such as increased energy density, improved grindability and pelletability, enhanced storage stability, and reduced microbial degradation are critically assessed along with its contribution to waste valorization and renewable energy conversion. Particular emphasis is placed on the application of torrefied biomass (biochar) in sustainable agriculture, where it can enhance nutrient retention, improve soil quality and promote long-term carbon sequestration. This review identifies an unresolved research gap in aligning large-scale techno-economic feasibility with environmental impacts, specifically concerning the high process energy requirements, emission mitigation and regulatory integration. Process optimization, reactor design and supportive policy frameworks are identified as key strategies that could significantly improve the economic viability and sustainability outcomes. Overall, torrefaction demonstrates substantial potential as a scalable pathway for converting waste agricultural and forest residues into carbon-neutral biofuels. By effectively linking biomass waste valorization with renewable energy production and sustainable agricultural practices, this review offers a practical route to reducing environmental impacts while supporting the broader objectives of the global circular economy.

Keywords: thermochemical pretreatment; lignocellulosic biomass; waste valorization; sustainable agriculture; circular economy; renewable energy; climate neutrality; emissions; sustainability; biofuel (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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