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Bioelectrochemical systems for a circular bioeconomy
Sungyup Jung1, Jechan Lee2, Young-Kwon Park3
1Department of Environment and Energy, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea.
Bioresource Technology
|January 16, 2020
Summary
Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) transform wastewater into electricity and chemicals, offering sustainable solutions for the circular bioeconomy. Economic assessments are crucial for their commercial viability and future development.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Electrochemistry
- Sustainable Energy
Background:
- Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) are gaining attention for converting wastewater into valuable resources like electricity and chemicals.
- These systems align with circular bioeconomy principles by offering sustainable waste treatment and resource recovery.
- The practical application of BESs hinges on their economic feasibility and integration into existing infrastructure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the economic assessment of BESs for their practical applicability in the circular bioeconomy.
- To critically evaluate the current status and challenges of techno-economic analyses for BESs.
- To identify key factors and future research directions for the commercial viability of BESs.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of existing studies on BESs.
- Analysis of techno-economic assessments (TEAs) for various BES configurations.
- Identification of economic barriers and enablers for BES commercialization.
Main Results:
- Economic viability of BESs is a critical factor for their widespread adoption.
- Techno-economic analysis (TEA) for BESs faces challenges related to scalability and operational costs.
- Key economic drivers include energy recovery efficiency, chemical production yields, and system lifespan.
Conclusions:
- BESs show promise as sustainable platforms for waste-to-energy and chemical production within the circular bioeconomy.
- Further research and development are needed to overcome economic limitations and enhance commercial viability.
- Optimizing BES design, improving operational efficiency, and developing robust TEA methodologies are essential for future success.
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