A review on the characteristic of biomass and classification of bioenergy through direct combustion and gasification as an alternative power supply

Abstract Extinction of fossil fuel resources owing to excessive use has called up new solution-based resources called ‘biomass’ which is more affordable to deliver and utilize, bring less environmental damages such as greenhouse gas (GHG) emission, opened more employment opportunities in both rural or suburban areas due to the abundant availability of this resources throughout the world. About 44% of the energy required by the year 2030 and about 14% energy sourced from biomass in 2016 based on the World Bioenergy Association’s data. Biomass can be sorted from various sources such as municipal solid waste (MSW), agricultural crops, crop residues, and forest residues. The clear cut of biomass characteristics in proximate analysis and ultimate analysis makes it possible to produce reliable energy resources. Biomass is multi-faceted fuel; thereof, it produces biofuel, which can be used in transportation and bioenergy to generate cleaner and affordable electricity throughout the world. In that sense, in this article, the characteristics and functionality of different thermochemical processes such as direct combustion and gasification have been discussed, and the reliability and new findings in various aspects in the bioenergy field. Furthermore, the advantages and disadvantages have been discussed to substantiate further the core objective of renewable energy in producing better, cheaper, and harmless to the surrounding environment. This study will give a brief understanding of the right way of using biomass and indirectly reduce the usage of fossil fuel, thus reserving a better world for the future generation.