Evaluation of utilising bio-derived methanol for generation of alternative fuels – a case study in India

Abstract

This thesis evaluates the production and utilisation of methanol from
agri-residues in India as a renewable biofuel alternative. It examines the
techno-economic and environmental feasibility of methanol derived from
lignocellulosic biomass, focusing on crop residue utilisation and the
performance of methanol/diesel blends. A detailed assessment of 43 crop
residues across 36 regions estimates an annual surplus of 288.14 million
tonnes, capable of producing 81.79 million tonnes of methanol (1.85 EJ), with
Uttar Pradesh leading in surplus generation. Python-based gasification
modelling provides insights into syngas and methanol production potential,
supporting decentralised bioenergy planning. A rural case study using GIS tools
estimates annual biomethanol production of 1,215.40 tonnes from rice straw,
with a carbon footprint of 0.347 kg CO₂e/kg biomethanol, significantly lower
than fossil fuel-based methanol. Supply chain networks were optimised to
minimise costs and emissions, demonstrating the feasibility of localised
projects. The thesis also investigates 12 novel methanol/diesel blends,
analysing their physiochemical properties and engine performance. A PRO-RVFL
optimised model was developed to predict performance metrics with high
accuracy. The findings highlight methanol’s environmental and economic
advantages, emphasising its potential to reduce fossil fuel dependency, lower
greenhouse gas emissions, and address rural energy poverty. This research
provides a comprehensive framework for bioenergy planning, aiding policymakers in achieving net-zero emissions and socio-economic development through biomethanol utilisation.

Thesis embargoed until 31 July 2026.

Date of Award	Jul 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Queen's University Belfast
Sponsors	Tezpur University
Supervisor	David Rooney (Supervisor), Debendra C. Baruah (Supervisor) & Haresh Manyar (Supervisor)