Biomass preparation for conversion humidity and value assessment

Abstract

Biomass usage for heat and energy purposes is one of the questions which still required more detailed analysis and scientific research. In this research we have focused on an analysis of humidity correlation on biomass preparation to conversion steps and calorific value assessment. The concept of biomass is widely understood, and in this research the chosen research object is agricultural, biomass with a main focus on straw, and additionally for results comparison are analyzed samples, composition are a mixture of straw and hay, with an additional 2% lime additive. For this research analyzed samples and their humidity for production steps is: one chop size reduction (20 mm) straw briquettes, two chops size reduction (30 mm and 10 mm) straw briquettes, pallets composition of 100% straw, 98% straw incl. 2% lime additive, 50% straw and 50% hay, 49% straw and 49% hay incl. 2% lime additive, 100% hay, 98% hay incl. 2% lime additive. Samples of straw and hay mixture, also with a lime additive is choosen because it is discussed widely that not only is it possible to use surplus straw from agricultural biomass as renewable energy and heat source, as a lime additive helps to keep a higher temperature on the combustion process and to generate more energy, but it is not healthy for the plant and not recommended under environmental aspects. The results received will help to estimate and determine the material humidity impact on biomass preparation for conversion steps, following an energy requirement for the production of briquettes and pallets, combustion factor and efficiency. It is defined as material calorific, HHV (higher heating value) and ash content which is one of the main factors and the criteria for fuel valuation will allow to determine tested samples further usage for heat and energy purposes. The research results will help further research tasks on bio energy as an agricultural biomass usageVytauto Didžiojo universitetasŽemės ūkio akademij