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Chapter 15: Problem 16

Gonzalez et al. (2012) report on the cost of different types of equipment in a biorefinery concept for cellulosic ethanol production using gasification. What is the explanation for investment scale factors smaller than one? What is the explanation for scale factors larger than one? In case of a huge scale factor, what would you propose?

Short Answer

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In summary, the investment scale factor in the context of a biorefinery concept for cellulosic ethanol production using gasification determines how the investment cost changes as the scale of production increases. A scale factor smaller than one indicates economies of scale, which is due to factors like technological advancements, bulk purchasing, and operational synergies. In contrast, a scale factor larger than one signifies diseconomies of scale, resulting from increased complexity, transportation, and logistics, and stricter environmental regulations. In case of a huge scale factor, it is recommended to consider modularization, collaboration with other biorefineries, and investing in technological innovation to mitigate potential operational and cost challenges.

Step by step solution

01

Define Investment Scale Factor

The investment scale factor is a representation of how the investment cost in a particular equipment or process changes as the scale of production increases. It is calculated as the ratio of the cost of the equipment or process at increased scale relative to its cost at a base scale. A scale factor less than one indicates that the cost of equipment or process decreases per unit with an increase in scale, while a scale factor larger than one implies that the cost per unit increases with an increase in scale.
02

Explain Scale Factors Smaller Than One

Investment scale factors smaller than one are a result of economies of scale. In the context of a biorefinery, economies of scale can stem from: 1. Technological advancements: Improved equipment and processes lead to more efficient and cost-effective operation at large scales. 2. Bulk purchasing: Larger quantities of raw materials, catalysts, and other consumables can be purchased at discounted rates. 3. Operational synergies: As the biorefinery expands, certain operational processes can be optimized, reducing energy consumption and waste.
03

Explain Scale Factors Larger Than One

Investment scale factors larger than one occur due to diseconomies of scale. In a biorefinery, diseconomies of scale can arise from: 1. Increasing complexity: As the size of the biorefinery grows, the complexity of production and management also increases, leading to higher costs. 2. Transportation and logistics: As biorefineries become larger, the costs associated with transporting raw materials, products, and waste also increase. 3. Environmental factors: Large scale biorefineries can face stricter environmental regulations, resulting in higher compliance costs.
04

Proposal for Huge Scale Factor

In case of a huge scale factor, it is advisable to consider the following approaches: 1. Modularization: Instead of constructing a single, massive biorefinery, building smaller modular units can help to overcome the logistic, management, and environmental challenges associated with large-scale facilities. 2. Collaboration with other biorefineries: Rather than bearing all the costs alone, establishing synergies with other biorefineries can help to share resources, knowledge, and expertise to reduce overall costs. 3. Technological Innovation: Investing in research and development to find novel and innovative solutions that help to minimize costs and address the challenges that come with increasing the scale of the biorefinery.

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