Exploring Potentials for Bioresource and Bioenergy Recovery from Vinasse, the “New” Protagonist in Brazilian Sugarcane Biorefineries

Vinasse management in biorefineries bears a burden for sugarcane industries. Despite its high potassium-related fertilizer potential, series of negative environmental impacts is expected to occur long-term soil applications vinasse through fertirrigation. Conversely, biodegradable organic content characterizes as potential substrate bioresource and bioenergy recovery from numerous (bio)technological perspectives. This review presents the alternative approaches proposed Brazil, with special attention dedicated role anaerobic digestion core conversion step. The suitability applying phase separation, i.e., separation fermentation methanogenesis sequential reactors, discussed detail. Laboratory full-scale experiences were considered discuss energetic biogas generation. With national installed capacity up 1603 MW, energy could replace half coal-derived electricity Brazil. Meanwhile, investing obtain soluble metabolites provide more than 10 g L−1 (iso)butyrate. first addressing use that discusses far beyond conventional production, encourages rational raw material bioprocesses, either short- or scenarios.