Recent advances in the application of nanomaterials for improved biodiesel, biogas, biohydrogen, and bioethanol production

The unrelenting utilization of fossil-based fuels has led to the continuous emission of anthropogenic gases and exacerbated environmental degradation at an alarming rate. Due to its renewability, sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness, the demand for biofuels, as reliable substitutes for fossil fuels, has been on the rise in recent decades. The deployment of nanotechnology is one of the sustainable strategies to boost the production of high-quality biofuels. The current study succinctly reviews the recent advancements in the utilization of nanomaterials to enhance the production and purification of biodiesel, biogas, biohydrogen, bioethanol, and other forms of biofuels from diverse feedstocks. The study examines the trend in global biofuel production, methods of fabrication and characteristics of nanomaterials, and avenues of utilization of nanotechnology in biofuel production. The outcome of the study reveals that the deployment of nanomaterials including metallic nanomaterials, nanocomposites, carbon-based nanomaterials, carbon nanotubes, graphene, and nanoscale biochar significantly contributes to biofuel production from various feedstocks. Deploying appropriate nanomaterials enhances feedstock conversion rate, separation and purification process, and product quality improvement. In the end, the reviews note the environmental implications of nanomaterials-based biofuel production, suggest remediation actions and recommend avenues for further research. There is a need for more novel integrated technologies, technical innovations, and financial investments to escalate sustainable biofuel production through the deployment of appropriate eco-friendly nanomaterials.