Impact of densification process on unprocessed biomass and post-hydrothermal carbonization

• DOI: 10.1016/j.biombioe.2024.107203
• Publication Date: 2024-04-05T19:24:44Z
• Authors: Ana Larissa Santi...; Cedric Boschert; Kelly Anne Hawboldt; William James Newell; Fábio Minoru Yamaji
• Keywords: Briquette; Heat of combustion; Torrefaction; Hydrothermal Carbonization; Solid fuel

The pulp and paper industry use biomass residues, such as sludge bark fuel to provide energy for their plants. However, issues high-water content or low heating value limit the amount of that can be utilized. Processes improve heat generation include densification, which facilitates transportation handling increase yield. technical feasibility briquetting is a function feedstock preprocessing. This study introduces novel approach briquette production from residues by utilizing wet with water natural binder, contrasting conventional methods require forced drying and/or addition binders. objective this research was investigate impact both unprocessed post-hydrothermal carbonization. focused on manufacturing briquettes derived different sources, including (Balsam fir), sludge, hydrochar sludge. characterized ash higher value. Biomass particle size (range), moisture process temperature pressure residence time (range) were varied in experiments determine conditions produce high-quality minimal input. Moisture high 50 wt% produced technically feasible briquettes, appropriate physical-mechanical properties (durability, volumetric expansion apparent density), energetic potential (calorific value). (pressing 150 °C) during pressing resulted enhanced physical-mechanical, properties, surpassing those at room temperature. Further tests additional steps are required meet commercialization standards Canada, but treatments conducted effectively improved internal industrial gains.