Developing a sustainable supply chain optimization model for bioethanol based on switchgrass production by considering torrefaction: A case study

Bioenergy is related to environmental problems, and nowadays, its production and consumption have been a significant issue because of the dangerous impact of pollution of fossil fuels and decreasing their scours. The most critical problem in the biofuel supply chain is costs and volume. So, in this paper, we present a formulation that considers the uncertainty of opening a new facility and transportation and reducing costs. Also, the technology for increasing the density is considered too, and we try to use them to decline total costs like another aspect. Most strategic decision problems involve the simultaneous optimization of uncertain criteria. During recent years, robust optimization among multi-scenario methods earned some attention and involved many researchers in solving the problem regarding this attribute. This study's output includes a method to produce bioethanol from switchgrass of cultivation to customer zone by considering costs and another parameter. The most crucial aim of this study is to provide the background that would apply to all future projects and the real world. Therefore, the proposed model validates a real case study in Iran.

Keywords:

Biofuel supply chain management , Switchgrass , Bioethanol , Robust Optimization , Uncertainty