Advanced conversion technologies for resource recovery from waste biomass: Applications and emerging trends

The increasing generation of waste biomass presents both environmental challenges and opportunities for sustainable resource recovery. This study explores advanced conversion technologies that transform waste biomass into valuable products, including biofuels, bioenergy, and biochemicals, while also contributing to environmental remediation. Pre-treatment techniques such as physical, chemical, and biological methods enhance biomass conversion efficiency. Innovative thermochemical technologies like pyrolysis, gasification, and hydrothermal liquefaction, along with electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, and plasma-assisted conversion, provide efficient pathways for resource recovery. Microbial and hybrid technologies, including microbial electrochemical systems and anaerobic digestion coupled with bioprocessing, further expand the potential applications of waste biomass valorization. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence and process optimization have significantly improved efficiency and scalability in resource recovery systems. Despite these advancements, challenges remain in terms of process optimization, economic feasibility, and regulatory constraints. This review provides a critical assessment of emerging technologies, recent applications, and future perspectives, highlighting the role of artificial intelligence in optimizing conversion processes. Sustainable resource recovery from waste biomass aligns with circular economy principles and global sustainability goals, contributing to energy security, environmental conservation, and economic benefits.