Hydrogen production from Biomass Vs fossil fuels

Assignment
in
Biofuel

Submitted by Submitted to

Rantidev (22mt0295) Dr. B Rajasekhar Reddy Sir

Eslavath Vennela (20JE0356)

Yenumula Anshitha (21JE1075)
Theegala Sai Himanjali (21JE0992)
Kriti Rathi (21JE0484)
21JE0484

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY(ISM), DHANBAD

JHARKHAND-826004
2023-2024
Abstract:
In the current world scenario, as the global economy is growing, the population is increasing,
and technology is advancing, the global primary energy demand is also increasing. To meet this energy
demand, we are mainly using fossil fuels as a source of energy, but by this we are producing a lot of
greenhouse gases which are very dangerous for the environment and causes climate change as well.
As per the BP Statistical Review of World Energy 2023, In 2019, crude oil made up 33.05% of the
world's energy consumption, with natural gas and coal coming in second and third, respectively, with
24.2% and 27.3%. In addition to their detrimental effects on the environment, fossil fuels are becoming
harder to find, and oil prices are volatile, which affects businesses that produce and use it as well as
consumers' ability to spend money on goods and services. So, in this scenario Hydrogen will be a very
good source of energy because it provides clean form of energy without carbon gas emission. In this
work, we will discuss different methods of production of hydrogen from fossil fuels and biomass
Furthermore, to determine which renewable-based technologies are more promising both economically
and energetically, a comparative analysis is conducted.

Graphical Abstract:

Highlights:
 • Hydrogen has the highest energy content per unit of weight compared to any other
known fuel.
• Different methods of production of hydrogen from renewable sources and fossil fuels
are described, and comparative studies have been made.
• Advancements in the steam reforming process for achieving “net zero carbon” goal has
been discussed.
• To determine which renewable-based[1]technologies are more promising both
economically and energetically, a comparative analysis is conducted.

Introduction: (500-800)
Up until 2040, the world's primary energy consumption would increase by 1.3% annually due
to rising energy services demand brought on by population growth, economic expansion, and
technological advancements. Fossil fuels and their derivatives remain the most extensively
used energy source in the world, with 97.6 million barrels/day in 2018 and an anticipated
increase to 112.2 million barrels/day until 2035 [2]. Consequently, fossil fuels-coal (38%),
natural gas (25%), along with oil (23%) are responsible for around 86% of all CO2 emissions
[3] . Consequently, to address the problem above and replace fossil fuels as a green energy
source, environmentally friendly energy production is needed. In this scenario Hydrogen is
considered a possible energy source. Hydrogen has the highest amount of energy per unit of
mass and is the most available gas in the universe. These days, it is strongly advised to produce
hydrogen from biomass since they are carbon-neutral due to the emission of CO2 during
combustion, which is needed by plants for photosynthesis.

From Biomass, we can produce hydrogen mainly in 2 ways which are by biological route,
thermochemical route . In the thermochemical process, we mainly produce hydrogen through
pyrolysis, gasification, and thermal liquification.

Hydrocarbon reforming, is primary methods for generating hydrogen from fossil fuels. In
reforming technology, we use mainly three methods Steam reforming, partial oxidation and
autothermal reforming[1]. Among all these three processes %yield of Hydrogen follows the
order: steam reforming > autothermal reforming > partial oxidation. Although we are getting
High %yield of Hydrogen when we are using coal and natural gas as a feed stock but the
drawback of this process is CO2 emission, coke formation, etc. and to solve these issues to
some extent we are using the steam reforming process with fluidized bed membrane reactor
(FBMR) and carbon capture storage and utility (CCSU) like advance technologies [1]
 1. Hydrogen Production from Fossil Fuels :

Currently Fossils fuels are main feed stocks for hydrogen production. Some prominent
technologies are given below

Steam reforming-

Steam reforming (SR) is a widely used technique in the production of hydrogen and syngas,
particularly when fossil fuels are used as feedstock. According to IEA 2023, Steam reforming process
is a widely used process for hydrogen production Globally, 75% of hydrogen is done by the steam
reforming process. The benefits of this approach include commercialised technology, inexpensive
feedstock, and low costs. However, the disadvantages of steam reforming include the need for catalyst
regeneration, high operational temperatures , carbon dioxide emissions, and coke formation.

Methane steam reforming (MSR)-

Methane, which makes up 84% and 96% of natural gas by volume in wet and dry terms,
respectively, is the primary component of natural gas, which is why this process is commonly referred
to as methane steam reforming. This process involves 2 reactions, namely, the splitting of hydrocarbons
with steam (equation 1) and the water gas shift (WGS)reaction (equation 2) in first reaction mixture of
hydrocarbon and steam is heated at high temperature due to its endothermic nature , In case of methane
reforming the temperature is around 8000C-10000C [3] and gives water gas as a product . The second
reaction is exothermic in nature and it gives mixture of carbon oxide and hydrogen. Now for separating
hydrogen from other gases pressure swing adsorption system is used, which can give recovery of 70-
95% with 99.999% pure hydrogen [4]

CH4 + H2O CO + 3H2 ΔH0298 = +206.2kJ/mol (1)

CO + H2O CO2 + H2 ΔH0298 = -41.2kJ/mol (2)

In this process mainly light Hydrocarbon are used, In case of methane reforming for better hydrogen
yield nickel supported on ceramic oxides is used as catalyst . [4]

Methanol steam reforming –

More focus is currently being placed on the low-temperature methanol steam reforming
(MeSR) to create high-purity hydrogen, which is intended to be utilized as fuel for fuel cell vehicles'
on-board power generation. The primary reasons that make methanol a valuable chemical carrier for
hydrogen are its accessibility, high energy density, ease of storage and transit. In this method hydrogen
is produced using methanol by below giving reaction : methanol decomposition reaction (3) WGS
reaction (4) and overall reaction (5)

CH3OH CO + 2H2 ΔH298 = + 90.2 kJ/mol (3)

CO + H2O CO2 + H2 ΔH298 = – 41 kJ/mol (4)
CH3OH + H2O CO2 + 3H2 ΔH298 = + 49.7 kJ/mol (5)
The MeSR process uses less energy since its reaction temperature is lower (250–300 ◦C)
than that of the MSR method (600–800 ◦C) [5].

Partial Oxidation –

In Partial oxidation (POX) coal and hydrocarbon ranging from methane to heavy oil can be
used as feed stocks. POX is best process to derive hydrogen from heavy oil and coal[6]. In this process
pure oxygen is used as gasification agent and reaction of hydrocarbon with oxygen is highly
exothermic in nature so no external energy source is required . POX reaction is carried out in presence
of d-block metal-based catalyst due to their variable oxidation and large activated surface area. General
POX reaction can be described by below given reaction (3)

CnHm + 1/2nO2 nCO + 1/2mH2 (6)

In POX reactions of heavy oil, methane, methanol and coal are given below by reaction 4 to 7
respectively[7]

CH1.3 + 0.5O2 CO + 0.65H2 (7)

CH4 + 0.5O2 CO + 2H2 (8)
CH3OH + 0.5O2 CO2 + 2H2 (9)
C + H2O CO + H2 (10)

POX reaction gives mainly mixture of CO and H2 from which CO can be separated by WGS reaction
increasing H2 or by oxidation of CO into CO2. In comparison to steam reforming method efficiency of
POX is less and cost is high due to high cost of pure oxygen [8]

However, POX process has advantages of flexible feedstocks, lower energy consumption, as compare
to steam reforming process.

Autothermal reforming –
Autothermal reforming (ATR) is combination of SR and POX , the exothermic partial oxidation
of O2 is a step in the autothermal reforming process that supplies the energy required for the
endothermic steam reforming reactions [9]. The SR reaction occurs in the catalytic zone where nickel
based catalyst is used and further produces syngas, whereas the combustion reaction occurs in the
thermal zone, where steam, feed and O2 are well mixed as per the below given Combustion reaction
(8), SR reaction (9), WGS reaction (10) respectively [10].
CH4 + 1.5O2 CO + 2H2O ΔH298 = – 519 kJ/mol (11)
CH4 + H2O CO + 3H2 ΔH298 = + 206 kJ/mol (12)
CO + H2O CO2 + H2 ΔH298 = – 41 kJ/mol (13)

The benefits of ATR over SR include : the absence of the need for external energy, which lowers
operating costs; however, additional costs for the Air separation unit (ASU) should be taken into
account. As compared to partial oxidation or steam reforming, it requires less energy [11]. Compared
to POX, ATR yields more hydrogen, but not as much as SR.

Membrane technology:

Membrane technology is recently developed technology for solving the issues of steam
reforming process because membrane reactors enable hydrogen generation and separation to occur in
a single unit, they become an exciting process intensification option for steam reforming. Since the
water gas shift and steam reforming reactions occur on the membrane while the hydrogen-rich stream
is being recovered concurrently, the membrane's selectivity is significantly higher, negating the need
for separation and purification equipment.[12]

Hydrogen Production from Biomass

When it comes to prospective sources of biofuels and chemical feedstocks, biomass is a
sustainable supply of primary energy that comes from plants and animals. Examples of these materials
include residues from forest crops, municipal solid waste, microalgae, and animal byproducts. Biomass
appears to be a viable feedstock option due to the following:
• It is a renewable source hence supports sustainable development.
• Doesn’t impact the environment negatively as no net release of CO2 and very low
sulphur content in the emissions.
• Provides energy security and reduces dependency on fossil fuels, whose prices will
increase in the future so has better economic potential.
Hydrogen can be produced from biomass by two pathways: Thermochemical & Biological Routes.

Thermochemical routes-
Pyrolysis of Biomass-
Through pyrolysis of biomass solid(char), liquid (tar and other organics) and gaseous products are
produced as alternate energy resources. Depending on the operating conditions, the pyrolysis process
can be divided into two sub categories:
Slow or Conventional Pyrolysis: This process is associated with high charcoal content
Fast/Flash Pyrolysis: This process is associated with tar at low temperatures around 675-775K and gas
is produced at high temperatures.[13]
hydrogen can be produced through fast or flash pyrolysis when done at sufficiently high temperatures
and sufficient volatile phase residence time.
Biomass + heat H2 + CO+ CH4 + other products
This produced methane and hydrocarbon vapours can further be converted to hydrogen and carbon
monoxide by steam reforming.
CH4 + H2O CO2 + H2
Further the hydrogen production can be enhanced by water gas shift reaction:
Factors affecting the yield and composition of obtained hydrogen gas are:
• Biomass Species
• Chemical and structural composition of biomass
• Temperature
• Particle size
• Heating rate
• Residence Time
• Atmosphere
• Pressure and reactor configuration
➢ As the pyrolysis temperature increased the hydrogen yield as a percentage of the total gaseous
products evolved.
➢ Hydrogen gas evolved is maximum at high temperature, low heating rate, long gas residence time
process.
➢ When three types biomass namely olive husk, cotton cocoon shell and tea waste when pyrolyzed
at 775-1025K in the presence of Zncl2 then highest yield of hydrogen gas was obtained from olive
husk, showing that type of biomass used also is important for hydrogen yield.[14]
➢ This type of catalyst used also plays an important role in the yield of hydrogen gas. For instance,
the catalytic effect of Na2Co3 was greater than K2CO3 for cotton cocoon shell and tea factory waste
and vice-versa for olive husk.[15]
Gasification of biomass-
Gasification can be considered as pyrolysis taking place at higher temperatures and producing
a mixture of gas containing H2 in the range of 6-6.5% along with CO, CH4, N2 ,CO2,O2 and tar.
Gasification methods provide a way to convert biomass feedstocks into synthesis gases or clean fuel
gases[16] . The synthesis gas also called as bio- syngas is composed H2+CO. From the produced syngas
H2 can be utilised. The biomass feedstock by using non-catalytic, catalytic and steam temperature and
the reactor type.[17] The three most significant types of gasifiers are entrained flow, fluidized bed,
and fixed bed . With gasification there is tar formation and hence it is necessary that the gasifiers must
provide sufficient gas conditioning and include scrubbers for tar removal.
The generalised reactions that occur in gasification process are:
CnHm +nH2O CO + (n+ m/2) H2
CnHm +nCO2 (2n) CO + (m/2) H2
• Steam gasification is the more profound technology for hydrogen production. The yield of
hydrogen gas obtained from steam gasification increases with increasing water-to-sample
(W/S) ratio.
• Temperature also plays an important role i.e. with increase in temperature of gasification
yield of hydrogen increases.
• Catalyst plays a very crucial role on gasification products. Though it does not affect the yield
it affects the composition of the gases produce. Dolomite, Ni-based catalysts and alkaline
metal oxides are the most commonly used catalysts for gasification.
• As the particle size decreases, the dry gas yield, yield of hydrogen is increased along with the
carbon conversion efficiency. Also, the char and tar amounts are decreased.

Supercritical water (fluid-gas) extraction of Biomass:

It is based on separation technology and uses supercritical fluid solvent. Fluids above a certain
critical temperature cannot be liquefied irrespective of the pressure applied but may reach nearly to the
density of the liquid state. Every fluid has a defined critical point at a particular critical temperature
and critical pressure. Water behaves as a supercritical fluid above 647.2K and 22.1 MPa[18] . This
supercritical water (SCW) possesses properties which are different from liquid water and this
supercritical water has lower dielectric constant and the H-bonding is weaker. Due to this at high
temperatures water attains properties like organic solvents enabling the organic compounds and gases
to be completely miscible with the supercritical water, providing a single fluid phase environment. The
gasification reaction taking place in supercritical fluid can be represented as:[19]

CHxOy + (2-y)H2O → CO2 + (2-y+x/2)H2; where x= elemental molar

ratio of H/C; y= elemental molar ratio of O/C

It is an endothermic reaction and compared to other thermochemical process, it gives high efficiency
lower temperatures and can directly handle biomass having high moisture without drying. Also, the
hydrogen gas is obtained at high pressure and can be stored directly which helps in reducing the
additional costs for compression.

Also, it has been observed that when temperature was increased from 875 to 1075K the yield of
hydrogen increased from 53% to 73% by volume, respectively. The disadvantage of the process is the
cost of operation which is several times higher than hydrogen produced from steam methane reforming.

Hydrogen production through catalytic reforming of biomass:

Hydrogen synthesis from sustainable bio-oil is a promising option for fuel, energy, and
agriculture uses. The production of hydrogen by bio-oil steam reforming has gained popularity in
recent years. Due to the complex composition of bio-oil and carbon deposition on the catalyst surface
throughout the reaction process, research now focus on steam formation of model compounds in bio-
oil and reforming catalysts. Bio-oil can be stored and transferred to a centralised facility where it is
transformed to hydrogen using catalytic steam reforming and WGS conversion. Catalytic steam
reforming of bio-oil at 1025-1125K over a Ni-based catalysis is a two-step procedure that involves a
shift reaction:

Bio-oil + H2O CO+ H2

CO + H2O CO2 +H2
From stoichiometric reaction the maximum hydrogen yield is around 0.172g H2/ g of bio-oil.
Because the steam-forming and water-gas shift reactions are reversible, some CO and CH4 will
always be present in the product gas, resulting in a lower yield.

Comparison of Thermochemical Processes :

Gasification typically produces more hydrogen than pyrolysis due to greater temperatures.
Conventional pyrolysis of maize improves hydrogen yield from 33% to 40% as temperature rises
from 775 to 1025K. Steam gasification yields of hydrogen increase from 29 to 45% for water-to-
sample ratio (W/S) =1 and from 29% to 47% for (W/S) =2 as temperature increases from 975 to
1225K. The largest yields (%dry and ash-free basis) were achieved from wheat straw pyrolysis
(46%) and steam gasification (55%), whereas olive waste yielded the lowest. The SFE used distilled
water, which has a critical temperature of 647.7 K. [20]The hydrogen output from SFE was
significantly higher (49%) at lower temperatures. Pyrolysis took place at moderate temperatures with
steam gasification at the highest temperatures.

Biological routes-
 Various routes of biohydrogen production exist, depending on the substrate and the
microorganism, such as direct biophotolysis, indirect biophotolysis, dark fermentation,
photofermentation, and microbial electrolysis. Photofermentation requires an uninterrupted light
source for photosynthesis, which could increase the cost. Another factor affecting the overall cost is
the choice of an appropriate feedstock. An ideal feedstock should have abundant carbohydrate content.
The carbohydrates in the feedstock are then converted into hydrogen biochemically by microorganisms
using their enzymes. Lignin is a major element of plant biomass, and delignification is a crucial step
in pretreatment while using plant-based feedstocks. Enhancing pretreatment can go a long way in
ensuring that hydrogen production is accomplished within cost constraints [21].
Direct Biophotolysis:
Algae and plant cells use a method called direct biophotolysis to transform sunlight and water
into hydrogen gas. This method has a combination of biological and chemical reactions. During the
process, a water molecule is split using light energy encapsulated by the organism's photosynthetic
machinery. This energy is converted into the chemical energy stored within hydrogen molecules
(H2)[21] .
2H2O + Solar Energy 2H2 + O2
An enzyme called hydrogenase plays a vital role in biophotolysis. This enzyme accepts electrons from
another molecule called ferredoxin, which allows the conversion of water into hydrogen gas.
Photosynthesis depends on two protein complexes: Photosystem I (PSI) and Photosystem II (PSII).
While PSI captures energy to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into organic molecules, PSII splits water
molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. Biophotolysis results in the release of 2 protons from the water
molecule also. The last step of hydrogen formation relies on the presence of hydrogenase or the activity
of PSI. In most plants, PSI uses the electrons from PSII to convert CO2, as they lack hydrogenase.
However, during biophotolysis, the electrons from PSII along with captured solar energy are used by
PSI's ferredoxin component to produce hydrogen gas.
Indirect biophotolysis:
Indirect Biophotolysis uses a 2-step process to produce hydrogen from sunlight. Firstly
Cyanobacteria or microalgae capture solar energy to produce carbohydrates such as starch or glycogen.
Then, in the dark, the carbohydrates are broken down through cellular metabolism to produce hydrogen
gas. The key steps of Indirect biophotolysis include: Carbohydrate synthesis is light-dependent: When
exposed to sunshine during the day, the organism uses light energy to transform CO2 into carbs.
Utilizing dark fermentation to produce hydrogen: Through a series of metabolic processes, the
organism breaks down the stored carbohydrates and releases hydrogen gas when there is no light, or
in a dark environment. Hydrogenase is an enzyme that is essential to this process. Cyanobacteria that
fix nitrogen find significance in indirect biophotolysis. These organisms use an enzyme known as
nitrogenase to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. However, oxygen can also suppress hydrogenase
because nitrogenase is sensitive to it. In order to get around this problem, many cyanobacteria grow
specialized cells known as heterocysts, which produce an oxygen-poor environment that is ideal for
fixing nitrogen and producing hydrogen. While cyanobacteria that fix nitrogen, such Oscillatoria and
Anabaena, as well as those that don't, like Synechococcus, can create hydrogen.
Dark Fermentation:
This process is both economical and environmentally beneficial. Anaerobic bacteria—or
algae high in carbohydrates—perform it. It is a carbon-neutral process, however it has several
disadvantages : Toxins are produced as a byproduct, Low hydrogen yield and substance in vast
quantities containing both macro and micronutrients is needed.
Photofermentation:
Photosynthetic bacteria use photosynthesis to turn organic substrates into hydrogen during this
process. This approach is secure and effective. Here, a variety of substrates, including organic acids
(or organic acid-rich wastewater or biomass) or ambient CO2, can be used to produce hydrogen.

Molecular Alternatives to Enhance Biological Hydrogen Production:

1. Uptake hydrogenase enzyme inactivation:
In this method the emphasis lies on inactivation of a hydrogen-uptake enzyme called
uptake hydrogenase. It is accountable for hindering of hydrogen production in several
bacteria (e.g. Nitrogen fixing bacteria).The inactivation of this enzyme might increase the
activity of other enzyme named OPP enzyme. The OPP enzyme is involved in a metabolic
pathway that is capable of generating more substrates for Hydrogen production.This
method seems particularly suitable for nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

2. Optimizing Electron Flow for Hydrogen Production:

Electrons are vital for the production of Hydrogen. Molecules like NADPH and
ferredoxin (which are reduced) can behave as electron donors for Hydrogenase enzymes,
which then combine them with the protons to produce hydrogen.
Challenge encountered: The electron donors also participate in other cellular processes,
thus limiting electron availability for hydrogen production due to the competing
pathways.
The Solution:
 I. Ferredoxin utilization mutation: A particular mutation was developed to enhance the
electron availability from ferredoxin and ferredoxin-NADP+oxidoreductase, resulting
in a five-fold increase in hydrogen production [22] .
II. The removal of NADPH dehydrogenase (NdhB) from Synechocystis sp. resulted in a
decrease in oxygen generation and an indirect increase in hydrogen yield [23].
III. Elimination of oxidase genes (ctaI, ctaII, and cyd): in comparison to the unmodified
organism, deletion of these genes increased hydrogenase activity and hydrogen
generation in Synechocystis sp.
IV. Mutants of Synechocystis sp. that lacked the nitrate absorption genes (narB, nirA)
produced noticeably more hydrogen. This is because removing these genes stops nitrate
from being converted to nitrite, which requires the utilization of electrons .

Results & discussions:

While hydrogen doesn't release greenhouse gases when utilised as an energy source, its
sustainability is dependent on how clean the hydrogen production pathway is and how much energy is
used in the process of getting it. Sustainable hydrogen production is essential to address energy and
environmental challenges in a clean, effective, reliable, efficient and affordable way, and to meet the
essential requirements for implementation. Improved technical, social, environmental, and economic
performance as well as availability/reliability standards are regarded as sustainability indicators in this
study.

1. Economic performance :
Costs:
Initial and running costs are seen as economic performance indicators
I. Initial costs: Initial costs includes the expenses associated with the design and construction of each
component of a hydrogen production process.
Fossil Fuels: Because known technology is used, initial costs are generally lower. A steam methane
reforming plant can be built at a lower initial cost than a complex biomass conversion facility. The
infrastructure already in place for the delivery of natural gas can further lower starting costs.
Biomass: Usually necessitates a larger initial cost because of Less developed technology ,Steam reforming
units lack the complexity of equipment and procedures found in biomass conversion facilities.
Preprocessing and specialized transportation for biomass feedstock may be necessary, raising the initial
expenses.
II. Running Costs: The running cost of the chosen hydrogen production technologies includes
maintenance and operation expenses. Labour, material, and energy resource expenses, as well as
maintenance fees for optimal operation, are all considered running costs.
 Fossil Fuels: Although natural gas may be widely accessible, its price is subject to change, which affects
operating expenses. Including technologies for carbon capture and storage (CCS) can raise continuing
operating expenses.
Biomass: Pre-processing and shipping expenses may make biomass feedstock more costly than natural gas.
Compared to steam reforming, more complicated processes frequently have more maintenance and
operating expenses. Managing liquid or solid byproducts can increase operating costs, depending on the
conversion process.
We obtain a more comprehensive understanding of the economic feasibility of various hydrogen production
techniques by taking into account both the initial and running expenditures. Although fossil fuels are now
more cost-effective at first, developments in biomass technology and future carbon pricing schemes may
change the game and lead to more sustainable clean hydrogen generation in the future.

Fig 1. Production cost comparison [24]

2. Environmental performance:
The environmental performance of hydrogen production systems is assessed using the following criteria:
greenhouse gas emissions, land utilization, water discharge quality, and solid waste generation.
I. Green House gas(GHG) emissions: Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, which are CO2, CH4,
N2O, and fluorinated gases.
Fossil fuels: Due to their extremely high Global warming potential values, fossil fuel-based processes, such
as Coal Gasification(CG) and the reforming of particular fuels, are thought to have the biggest detrimental
effects on the environment. Since, the process includes the reforming of natural gas with steam, releasing
captured carbon as CO2.Global warming potential (GWP) shows kg CO2 emissions per kg H2 produced.
Considerable greenhouse gas reductions can be achieved by utilizing Carbon capturing and storage (CCS)
technology in the fossil fuel hydrogen generation process. According to estimates, adding CCS can cut the
GWP of CG by 71.7–81.7%.However, there hasn't been much promotion of CCS technology in real-world
use.
Biomass: If managed properly, biomass conversion processes can lead to almost zero net CO2 emissions.
By absorbing CO2 throughout their growth, biomass-producing plants may be able to offset the emissions
generated during conversion. Partially burned biomass during conversion, as well as emissions from
feedstock production and transportation, can result in net greenhouse gas emissions.
 Fig 2. Global warming potential (GWP) comparison [24]
II. Land Use: The amount of land needed for the hydrogen production system and its auxiliary components
is land usage.
Fossil fuels: The extraction of fossil fuels may need some land for infrastructure and drilling, but overall,
the impact is smaller than that of biomass.
Biomass: Depending on the feedstock selected and the volume of production, growing biomass feedstock
may need a sizable amount of land. If large-scale biomass production is not handled responsibly, it may
result in deforestation. There may be a conflict between the production of food and the use of land for
energy crops, which could affect food security. The competition in food production can be reduced by using
waste biomass or dedicated energy crops grown on non-arable land. Efficient conversion processes and
high-yield biomass crops can help reduce the total land use required for biomass-based hydrogen
production.
III. Water Discharge Quality:The quality of the water discharge shows how contaminated the liquid output
from certain hydrogen production processes is. It should be highlighted that while assessing wastewater
quality, discharge temperature is taken into account in addition to pollutants and impurities.
Fossil Fuels: In general, fossil fuels are of lower quality. When steam reforming, a lot of water is usually
used for cooling, and the process might produce effluent that contains hydrocarbons and salts. To comply
with environmental standards, this effluent frequently needs to be treated before being released.
Biomass: Potentially Higher Quality-The production of biomass may need less water or result in less
contaminated effluent, depending on the conversion process. Nevertheless, depending on the particular
procedure and feedstock utilized, wastewater treatment may still be required.
IV. Solid waste generation:
Fossil Fuels: Other than wasted catalysts that need to be properly disposed of or recycled, steam reforming
produces very little solid waste.
Biomass: Greater Possibility of Solid Waste. The following solid wastes can be produced by biomass
conversion processes:
• Ash: The byproduct of combustion operations is ash, which requires appropriate disposal (landfill or
possibility for use as building materials).
 • Biochar: This byproduct that resembles charcoal can be processed before being utilized for soil
amendment or filtration.
• Unconverted Biomass: Some unconverted biomass solids may need to be further processed or
disposed of, depending on the process efficiency.
3. Technical Performance
In technical performance category, energy and exergy efficiencies, process control, and raw material input
are considered as performance parameters.
I. Energy and Exergy Efficiency: Energy efficiency is an indicator of how well the energy is
conserved and exergy efficiency concentrates on the preservation of "the quality of energy”. The
greatest amount of useful work that can be extracted from a system or source is measured in terms
of exergy. exergy efficiency is a really necessary for a thorough investigation of a system's technical
performance.
Fossil Fuels: Because the emphasis is on total energy output, fossil fuels typically demonstrate excellent
energy efficiency (70–80% for steam reforming), ignores differences in energy quality. Indicates areas that
could want improved by revealing a considerable exergy destruction during the process. Lower exergy
efficiency relative to energy efficiency because of irreversibility that are present
Biomass: Gasification has low energy and energy efficiency due to the challenge of removing hydrogen
from biomass's complex components. Hydrogen extraction requires the expenditure of lots of potential
energy.A high-efficiency catalyst choice might enhance the gasification conversion process and reduce the
amount of tar and char byproducts. A higher production, an adequate supply of feedstock, and the least
amount of operational costs would surely make the gasification process very attractive.

Fig 3. Energy and Exergy analysis [24]

II. Process Control: Process control refers to how well the input parameters of the process can be
observed, managed, and modified in response to changes in the output requirements or the
surrounding environment.
Fossil Fuels (Steam Reforming): Continuously check the quality or flow rate of natural gas or another fossil
fuels entering into the process. This ensures that constant reaction conditions and hydrogen Yields. Precise
temperature control is crucial in the reformer furnace. It is either too high, so you spoil catalyst; it is too
low, hence, reaction becomes inefficient. Correct steam-to-carbon ratio should be maintained in feed. That
way, this will maximize production of hydrogen while minimizing impurities such like CO. Reactor
pressure must be carefully controlled to optimize conversion efficiency and catalyst life time.
Biomass (Gasification): Monitor the size, moisture content and composition of biomass entering a gasifier.
Consistency in terms of feedstock characteristics guarantees smooth running as well as efficient production
of hydrogen. Regulate both speed and composition of a gasifying agent (steam, oxygen). This affects
quantity of hydrogen produced as well as its composition in products.
III. Raw material Input: A process's needs for quantity, quality, cost, and abundance of raw material
input are measured by the term "raw material input”. For example, process requiring precious and
rare elements could be considered to have low performance.
Fossil Fuels: Natural gas, light naphtha or, other hydrocarbons are sources used. Quality that is uniform and
easy to find infrastructural support for is advantageous. These are Non-renewable resources, causes global
warming.
Biomass: Sources used are vast range of organic materials like wood chips, agricultural residues, dedicated
energy crops or even municipal solid waste. These are renewable resources, could be carbon neutral if
sustainably sourced. Fluctuating feedstock quality require more control with potential higher processing
costs and may not be universally available. If rapid deployment and existing infrastructure are priorities
then fossil fuels can provide a temporary solution. However, transitioning to hydrogen production from
biomass is indispensable for a sustainable future. It would take continuous research and development efforts
to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of biomass gasification which can make it a truly viable
large-scale solution.
IV. Availability/Reliability:
The availability/ reliability of hydrogen production methods are compared with each other based on their
dependence on imported resources, predictability, and also scalability.
Dependence on Imported Resources: It is generally acknowledged that in order to provide more security, a
truly sustainable economy must rely on ample and locally available resources rather than imports.
Fossil Fuels: High Dependence-Steam reforming predominantly relies on natural gas as a feedstock.
Depending on the geography, a considerable percentage of natural gas might be imported, generating
dependence on foreign resources. Fluctuations in global natural gas prices can affect production costs.
Natural gas import dependence puts one at risk from supply chain interruptions and geopolitical unrest.
Biomass: Potential for Domestic Production- Biomass feedstock can be sourced domestically from
numerous resources such as agricultural residues, specific energy crops, or forestry waste.This minimises
dependency on foreign resources and enhances energy security.In order to prevent rivalry with food
production and land-use issues, sustainable biomass production procedures are essential.Transportation
expenses of bulky biomass feedstock might be an issue, especially if acquired from vast distances.
4. Predictability:
Variations in the input or the amount and quality of the output with predetermined process parameters are
included in predictability.
Fossil Fuels: High Predictability-Steam reforming, in particular, is a well-established process in the mature
field of hydrogen production based on fossil fuels. Production costs and hydrogen yields are predictable
because to the well-understood behaviour and performance of these processes. Process predictability is
increased when easily available natural gas is used as a feedstock.
Biomass: Reduced Predictability-Biomass In contrast to technologies utilising fossil fuels,biomass
conversion processes are still being developed. Variables including feedstock quality, conversion
technology efficiency, and even meteorological circumstances can affect the efficiency and hydrogen yield.
A considerable amount of unpredictability results from this.
5. Scalability:
The ability of a system to adapt to various locations, users, output volumes, and other factors is known as
its scalability.
Fossil Fuels: Easily Scalable-The infrastructure already in place for the production and distribution of
natural gas makes it possible to easily scale the production of hydrogen derived from fossil fuels.
Expanding steam reforming plant capacity to accommodate rising demand is a reasonably simple
procedure.
Biomass: Limited Capability to Scale -There are currently obstacles to scaling up biomass-based hydrogen
production. At large sizes, securing a steady and sustainable supply of biomass feedstock can be
challenging. For large-scale production, facilities for the processing and transportation of biomass may need
to be developed.
Research developments in sustainable feedstock management techniques and biomass conversion
technologies can increase the hydrogen generation from biomass with more predictability and scalability in
the future. Certain scaling issues may be resolved by combining biomass production with already used
agricultural techniques.
6. Social Performance:
Impact on Public Health:
Fossil fuels: Air Emissions- During the process of steam reforming, considerable amounts of nitrogen
oxides (NOx) are released into the atmosphere. NOx plays a role in the creation of smog, which is a
significant contributing factor to respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD).Furthermore, other dangerous pollutants including particulate matter and volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) may be emitted, contingent on the natural gas source and processing method. Leaks,
accidents during natural gas extraction, transportation, or processing can expose workers and local
populations to harmful substances.
Biomass: The production of biomass may produce air pollutants such as particulate matter, NOx, and
volatile organic compounds (VOCs) depending on the conversion process and emission control
mechanisms. During the conversion of biomass, incomplete combustion may make these problems worse.
The production and processing of biomass, like the use of fossil fuels, can expose workers to dust,
particulates, and perhaps bioaerosols.
Table 1 : Weights of main criteria for evaluating sustainable method of hydrogen production

Main criteria Weights of Main criteria

Economic Performance 0.140

Environmental Performance 0.257

Technical Performance 0.267

Availability/Reliability 0.228

Social Performance 0.106

The technical performance criteria in Table 1 have the most value when considering the key criteria
evaluation findings of international experts. The environmental performance criteria come in second place.
According to the consensus among global experts, social performance criterion comes in lowest
significance, behind economic success criteria. The method of producing hydrogen that is energetically
efficient uses resources more sparingly, which eventually reduces process costs and environmental effect.
Because of this, the environmental impact is of secondary importance. Clean and efficient technology are
necessary for sustainability. Near these two parameters, availability and dependability indicate how crucial
it is to use domestic, dependable resources. When all of these conditions are satisfied, costs should decrease
as new technologies develop and production volumes rise, which will enhance social performance as well.
Considering Technical performance, fossil fuels definitely have advantage than biomass processes. But
Advanced Technologies are developed to produce cleaner syngas for the manufacture of hydrogen, increase
efficiency, and lower pollutants in gasification processes. Quick Pyrolysis-This approach quickly turns
biomass into bio-oil, which may then be refined using catalytic upgrading techniques to produce hydrogen.
Integration with Biochemical Processes: A viable method for producing hydrogen from biomass with a high
yield is to combine thermochemical conversion with biological processes like fermentation. Now,
considering environmental and availability/reliability criteria biomass processes are obviously more
advantageous than fossil fuels. So, by comparing all important criteria we can see that biomass processes
are more sustainable methods for hydrogen production considering improvement in technical performance.
 Table 2 : Comparison between H2 production from biomass and Fossil fuels
Factor Hydrogen Production from Fossil Fuels Hydrogen production from Biomass
Maturity of Well-established technology Developing technology, requires further
technology research and development for cost
reduction and efficiency improvement

Carbon High(CO2 released during Potentially low (CO2 captured during

emissions: processing),contributes to growth can offset emissions from
processing)
Energy Established, relatively efficient (70- Lower efficiency than fossil fuels(50-60%)
efficiency 80%)
Cost Currently lower due to established Can be higher due to feedstock preparation,
infrastructure processing, and potential land-use
competition
Scalability Highly scalable with existing Depends on availability of sustainable
infrastructure for natural gas biomass sources, potential for regional
limitations
Environmental Significant greenhouse gas emissions, Can be carbon neutral or even carbon
Impact air and water pollution from processing negative with carbon capture
Exergy Potentially Higher exergy efficiency Lower exergy efficiency because of the
Efficiency difficulty in extracting hydrogen from the
complex compounds of biomass
Geopolitical Reliant on fossil fuel resources and More independent of traditional energy
considerations geopolitical factors affecting their price markets

Conclusions :
Hydrogen is an emissions-free energy source, even though it utilizes for energy-related uses. Its
sustainability is focused on the extraction method and the power source utilized in its manufacturing.
This study examines the many methods for producing hydrogen that can be used with renewable
resources like biomass and fossil fuels. Because of the correlation between production costs and fuel
prices, which are still within acceptable bounds, the majority of hydrogen produced today comes
from fossil fuels. To be more precise, it is mostly made when light hydrocarbons undergo steam
reformation, which releases greenhouse gasses. The primary goal of the European Union's energy
strategy is lowering carbon emissions, which is driving important advancements in the technology
used to produce hydrogen from renewable resources like water and biomass. The so-called
"hydrogen economy" will be achievable with the use of renewable feedstock, such as biomass, which
will replace current power systems and conventional fossil fuels. However, several scientific,
technological, financial, and social obstacles must be overcome first.
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