Detoxification and appropriate utilization of non-edible oil seed cake left after the extraction of oil is very important for the viability, sustainability and hence wider acceptability of the Jatropha-based biodiesel production system. Till now, detoxification of oil seed cake has been successful only at laboratory scale. However, Indian biodiesel companies and a few leading research centres are working towards attaining complete detoxification of Jatropha.

The chapter on ‘biorefinery’ discusses in brief the classification and stage of development of different types of biorefineries across globe. Integrated biorefinery model based on lignocellulosic feedstock as a concept is gaining popularity in India. India’s first biorefinery based on sugarcane bagasse has already been set up in Karnataka by Godavari Biorefineries Ltd. with technology support from NCL Pune. 

On biodiesel front, the technology for conversion of oil into biodiesel is not a constraint any more. However, the real constraints in attaining commercial viability are poor availability of raw materials and cost of oil obtained. The chapter on biorefinery discusses in details further improved processes for obtaining biodiesel.

The focus of many research and commercial initiatives now is to obtain cellulose derivatives from agro-residue and other waste biomass in place of cotton or wood cellulose. In India, NCL Pune has worked on various cellulose based value added products and technology for the same has been transferred to Godavari Biorefineries Ltd. The report has one chapter on ‘Cellulose based Value Added Products’.

Lignin & lignin based derivatives throw huge opportunities for multiple applications. In India, presently lignin is mainly used as boiler fuel for paper & pulp industry. The report has one separate chapter dedicated to Lignin and its derivatives.

With its huge population, India offers great market potential for nutraceuticals. However, isolating nutraceuticals from non-food biomass sources, such as jatropha seeds is still a challenge and viable processes need to be developed in this regard. The report discusses in brief various nutraceuticals (including Pre & Probitotics). The report has one chapter on ‘Potential Biomaterials from Silk Industry Waste’ and another chapter on ‘Chitin & Chitosan from Seafood Processing Waste’.

Finally, the report contains a set of recommendations on various existing and future opportunities for biomass derived biochemicals in India. It identifies potential centres within India as well as International research institutes for R & D projects related to biomass derived biochemicals.