Multi-Year Analysis Plan (Page 52 of 80) in pdf

Multi-Year Analysis Plan Page 52

Figure 22: Corn Stover Production Map

4.3 Biomass Infrastructure Assessment

Biomass infrastructure assessment identifies the optimal methods for collecting, transporting, storing and

processing of biomass feedstocks, and much of this analysis takes place in the Feedstock Interface R&D

program area. Since a robust biomass infrastructure does not exist, it is crucial to evaluate the many

options for getting the biomass to the processing facility to determine which one(s) make sense in which

geographic areas. Developing a market basis for biomass is another part of the analysis, since biomass can

be valued in several different ways. Combining the results of the Feedstock area analysis with those of the

conversion platforms—sugar and thermochemical—allows synergies between the field and the processing

facilities to be identified.

4.4 Technical and Economic Feasibility Analysis

Technical and economic feasibility analyses are performed to determine the potential economic viability

of a process or technology, identify which technologies have the greatest likelihood of economic success,

define which process parameters are the most critical to achieving the economic targets and ensuring the

appropriate level of R&D funding is allocated to these areas.

The biomass scientific community is continually developing technologies and process improvements to

make the slate of products more viable. An assessment of these emerging technologies and processes are

Multi-Year Analysis Plan Page 52