Prospects and limitations of existing biofuels and emerging trends in the utilization of nanoparticles for enhanced biofuel production and microbial fuel cell efficiency

Abstract

Biofuels, including bioethanol, biogas, biohydrogen, and biodiesel, as well as microbial fuel cells, are extensively recognized as sustainable energy alternatives to fossil fuels. Nonetheless, their commercialization is constrained by various limitations, including economic and technological challenges. The integration of nanoparticles into biofuel production and microbial fuel cell fabrication has demonstrated significant benefits over time due to their nanoscale dimensions and distinctive structural properties. Their use enhances operational efficiency, increases yield, and accelerates the conversion of biomass into biofuels. This review presents a comprehensive global analysis of biofuels and includes a bibliometric analysis of research related to biofuels incorporating nanoparticles. It details the current production methods for various types of biofuels, their specific characteristics, production statistics, and existing gaps in their commercialization. This is followed by an in-depth examination of the role of nanotechnology in biofuel production and microbial fuel cell fabrication, supported by recent studies. The review thoroughly addresses the impact of nanotechnology from multiple perspectives, including environmental and human health considerations, scalability, effects on microbial communities, economic feasibility, and regulatory and ethical challenges. Mitigation strategies for these challenges are also discussed. Additionally, biofuels enhanced with nanoparticles are compared with other advanced technologies currently available.. © 2024 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.