Title

University of Maine Integrated Forest Product Refinery (IFPR) Technology Research

Investigators

Hemant P. Pendse, Principal Investigator; University of Maine, OronoFollow

Project Period

September 1, 2011-August 31, 2013

Level of Access

Open-Access Report

Grant Number

DE-FG02-08ER64635

Submission Date

11-23-2010

Abstract

This project supported research on science and technology that forms a basis for integrated forest product refinery for co-production of chemicals, fuels and materials using existing forest products industry infrastructure. Clear systems view of an Integrated Forest Product Refinery (IFPR) allowed development of a compelling business case for a small scale technology demonstration in Old Town, ME for co-production of biofuels using cellulosic sugars along with pulp for the new' owners of the facility resulting in an active project on Integrated Bio-Refinery (IBR) at the Old Town Fuel & Fiber. Work on production of advanced materials from woody biomass has led to active projects in bioplastics and carbon nanofibers. A lease for 40.000 sq. ft. high-bay space has been obtained to establish a Technology Research Center for IFPR technology validation on industrially relevant scale. UMaine forest bioproducts research initiative that began in April 2006 has led to establishment of a formal research institute beginning in March 2010.

This project has helped advance the field of alternative renewable fuels using forest based resources. This can help rural economies, possibly providing regional solutions for the Northern Forest communities. Forest Bioproducts Research Institute (FBRI) at the University of Maine is poised to lead the development of fuels, chemicals, and advanced materials from woody biomass.

Rights and Access Note

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Recommended Citation

Pendse, Hemant P., "University of Maine Integrated Forest Product Refinery (IFPR) Technology Research" (2010). University of Maine Office of Research Administration: Grant Reports. 26.
https://digitalcommons.library.umaine.edu/orsp_reports/26

Manuscript Number

MS584_2014_PEN_UMaine_Integrated