Bioeconomy Institute

Several improvements to biofuel conversion processes relate strongly to the raw material supply chain. Some examples of key raw materials issues requiring attention include: shortage of local grain storage and storage problems affecting the ethanol process; shifting of raw material transportation away from long haul rail and barge to multiple short hauls by truck; detection and management of raw material factors that impact efficiency, output quantity and output quality (e.g. fermentable starch, germ size, fiber, moisture content, hardness); certified quality management systems (ISO, etc.) and supply chain organization for raw materials; traceability of raw materials through processes, for both food safety and process management reasons; food safety factors affecting production (eg. mycotoxins, unapproved GMO); and segregation of unfit materials to be combustion stock for powering plants.