Lignocellulosic and microalgal biofuels are poised to play a significant role in the future energy matrix. This article reviews recent developments related to lignocellulosic and microalgal biofuels from a chemical engineering perspective. The major challenges in the production of these biofuels are identified and potential solutions are discussed. For lignocellulosic biofuels, development of efficient pre-treatment methods and improved enzymes is a key challenge. For microalgal biofuels, increasing culture density and reducing dewatering requirement require immediate efforts. The issues associated with practical implementation and scale-up as well as the value of an integrated biorefinery are discussed. Finally, sustainability related challenges are presented and the value of a systems approach is highlighted.

木质纤维素和微藻生物燃料有望在未来的能源矩阵中发挥重要作用。本文从化学工程的角度回顾了与木质纤维素和微藻类生物燃料有关的最新进展。确定了这些生物燃料生产中的主要挑战，并讨论了潜在的解决方案。对于木质纤维素生物燃料，开发有效的预处理方法和改良酶是一项关键挑战。对于微藻生物燃料，增加培养物密度和减少脱水需求需要立即努力。讨论了与实际实施和扩大规模相关的问题，以及整合的生物精炼厂的价值。最后，提出了与可持续性相关的挑战，并强调了系统方法的价值。