Abstract
In this paper, the modernization studies of biomass energy conversion facilities are briefly reviewed. Here, the term biomass includes organic matter produced as a result of photosynthesis as well as municipal, industrial and animal waste material. The term modern biomass is generally used to describe the traditional biomass use through the efficient and clean combustion technologies and sustained supply of biomass resources, environmentally sound and competitive fuels, heat and electricity using modern conversion technologies. Ethanol and fatty acid (m)ethylester (biodiesel) as well as diesel produced from biomass by Fischer-Tropsch synthesis are modern biomass-based transportation fuels. Currently crops generating starch, sugar or oil are the basis for transport fuel production. Modern biomass can be used for the generation of electricity and heat. Brief summaries of the basic concepts involved in the thermochemical conversions of biomass fuels are presented. The percentage share of biomass was 62.1% of total renewable energy sources in 1995. The reduction of greenhouse gases pollution is the main advantage of utilizing biomass energy.