Techno‐economic evaluation of a natural deep eutectic solvent‐based biorefinery: Exploring different design scenarios

Abstract This paper presents a comprehensive techno‐economic evaluation of an integrated natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES)‐based biorefinery – a 1 ton day −1 capacity design plant. The key parameters include payback period, net present value (NPV), and internal rate of return (IRR). These were compared with the parameters of conventional biorefineries. The ‘ n th plant’ results clearly revealed that the single product‐based biorefinery is not a sustainable approach. Hence, value‐added products viz ., cellulose, lignin, xylan, silica, etc ., play a vital role in the cost‐effectiveness of bio‐based biorefineries. Based on ‘base‐case’ experimental results, a pilot‐scale plant design scenario is most feasible, with a NPV of 1.4 million USD, >100% IRR, and a payback period of <2 years. Sensitivity analysis revealed that lignin has the greatest impact on revenue. This report proves that multi‐product biorefineries provide better sustainability. The concepts of solvent recycling and reuse, and key challenges to the commercialization of this design approach, were also discussed. The application of NADES in biorefineries, has several advantages, making the implementation of NADES a key feature for increased sustainability in this industry. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd