d

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Renewable Energy Engineering: Solar, Wind

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and Biomass Energy Systems

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rio nd
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Module - 04

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Lecture – 01 (Part I)

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Prof. Vaibhav V. Goud and Dr. R. Anandalakshmi
ot eri

Department of Chemical Engineering

nn at

Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati

ca m

Guwahati – 781039, Assam (India)

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 d
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Module Module name Lecture Content

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r p er
rio nd
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04 Biomass: Types, 01 Classification of Energy Resources

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ith h
Characterization Biomass, Broad Classification,

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Composition of Biomass

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be al
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 d
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Introduction

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The word “energy” itself is derived from the Greek word ‘en-ergon’, which means ‘in-work’ or

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‘work content’

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The erg is a unit of energy equal to 10⁻⁷ joules.

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It originated in the CGS system of units. The erg is not an SI unit.

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Any physical activity in this world, whether carried out by human beings or by nature, is caused due

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to flow of energy in one form or the other.

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Energy is required to do any kind of work. The work output depends on the energy input.
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That is the reason, Energy is considered as the most basic infrastructure input for economic growth
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and development of a country.

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* Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009, Publisher, TMH
Energy

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• Before Industrial revolution, people were essentially dependent on manual and animal labour.

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• And their energy requirements were met through food intake.

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Before • As a result, life was simple and unsophisticated and environment was relatively clean.

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AD 1700

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r p er
rio nd
• Invention of the steam engine brought the industrial revolution

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• For the first time, man began to use coal in large quantities as a new source of energy

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1785

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• The internal combustion engine was invented and other fossil fuels, oil and natural gas began to be used
extensively.

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• With this fossil era of using non-renewable sources had begun and could get energy in concentrated form.
• Further flexibility was enhanced with the discovery of electricity and central power station either using fossil or
be al
1870
water -power
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All this led to an increase of energy requirement by leaps and bounds. Thus, with
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developments in the human living standard, the energy consumption also accelerated.
Energy Consumption

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Energy consumption:

G.
Transportation

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transportation

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sector industry

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domestic

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agricultural

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r p er
rio nd
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ou te
Agriculture Domestic
Energy

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sector sector

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Consumption

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Industry sector
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 Energy Resources

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Classification of Energy Resources

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si .
is . V
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Based on Based on Based on Based on Based on

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usability of energy traditional use exhaustibility commercial use origin

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rio nd
a. Fossil fuels
a. Non- renewable resources

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b. Nuclear
e.g. fossil fuels, uranium etc. c. Hydro
a. Primary Resources

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b. Intermediate Resources d. Solar
b. Renewable resources

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c. Secondary Resources e. Biomass

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e.g. biomass, solar, wind, f. Wind
ocean, geothermal, hydro etc. g. Geothermal

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h. Ocean Thermal
and Ocean wave

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a. Conventional Energy Resources:
e.g. Fossil fuels, nuclear and a. Commercial energy resource
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hydro resources. e.g. electricity, petrol, diesel,
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gas, etc.
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b. Non-Conventional Energy Resources

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e.g. Solar, wind, biomass etc. b. Non-commercial energy resource

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e.g. wood, crop residue,

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animal dung cake etc.

* Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009, Publisher, TMH
Classification of Energy Resources

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G
Energy sources can be classified in the following ways.

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1. Based on usability of energy

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r p er
a. Primary resources

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b. Intermediate resources

tp du
ou te
c. Secondary resources

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𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 obtained from raw energy source

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𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 yield ratio =
𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 spent to obtain raw energy source

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be al
2. Based on traditional use
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a. Conventional energy resources: e.g. Fossil fuels, nuclear and hydro resources.
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b. Non-conventional energy resources:. e.g. Solar, wind, biomass etc.

Cont.
* Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009, Publisher, TMH
 d
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3. Based on availability (long term)

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a. Non- renewable resources

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‘Energy obtained from static stores of energy that remains underground unless

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rio nd
released by human interaction.’ e.g. fossil fuels, uranium etc.

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ou te
ith h
w yrig
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b. Renewable resources

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Energy obtained from natural and persistent flows of energy occurring in the
be al
ot eri

immediate environment. e.g. biomass, solar, wind, ocean, geothermal, hydro etc.
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Cont.
* Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009, Publisher, TMH
 d
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Natural Mined resource: Finite or brown

.
environment

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si .
is . V
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Current source of Finite source of

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continuous energy flow Energy potential 4

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Device

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1
4 5

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Device Use

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2 5

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Use 6

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6
3

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us is c Environment
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Environment Sink Sink
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Renewable energy or Finite energy

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Green energy
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* Courtesy: Adapted from, renewable energy resources, J. Twidell & T. Weir, 2nd edition, 2006, Publisher, T&F
 d
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4. Based on commercial application

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a. Commercial energy resource: The secondary usable forms of energy which are

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essential for commercial activities are categorized as commercial energy resources.

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rio nd
e.g. electricity, petrol, diesel, gas, etc.

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ou te
ith h
w yrig
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b. Non-commercial energy resource: The energy obtained from nature is used directly

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without passing through a commercial outlet is called non-commercial energy
be al
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resource. e.g. wood, crop residue, animal dung cake etc.

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Energy Chain

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The sequence of energy transformations between primary and secondary energy

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(usable energy) is known as energy chain or energy route.

si .
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Processing

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Primary energy Electrical energy

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e.g. coal

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Consumer

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Processing
Primary energy Secondary energy

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e.g. oil (fuel)

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Scheme 1: Energy chain
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* Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009, Publisher, TMH
Common forms of energy

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Mechanical energy: Mechanical energy is the energy a substance or system has because of its motion. For example

si .
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machines use mechanical energy for movement of objects, changing the shape of the objects.

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(it is used in transportation, agriculture, processing, and other industrial processes)

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r p er
Electrical energy: It is one of the most common and useful forms of energy. It is used universally as a vehicle of

rio nd
energy. It is considered to be the top grade form of energy. The major advantage of this form of

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energy, it can be conveniently and efficiently converted to other forms of energy.

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ith h
w yrig
Thermal energy: Thermal energy is also called heat energy and is used to increase the temperature of an object

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during industrial processes. It can also be converted into mechanical energy by heat engines.

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There are three grades of thermal energy (high, medium, and low).
be al
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Chemical energy: Energy stored in the bonds of atoms and molecules (chemical compounds). Chemical energy is
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released in an exothermic chemical reaction, often in the form of heat. Also, it can be directly
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converted into electrical energy through fuel cells, storage batteries etc., It can also be converted
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into thermal energy by combustion.

* Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009, Publisher, TMH
 d
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Importance of non-conventional energy sources

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is . V
1. The global demand of energy is increasing rapidly, because of population and economic growth, and

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hence the conventional sources of energy will not be sufficient to meet the growing energy demand.

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r p er
rio nd
2. Conventional /non-renewable sources are bound to finish one day.

tp du
3. Similarly, more usage of these resources cause environment pollution and results in more greenhouse

ou te
ith h
effect.

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4. Large hydro resources affect wildlife, cause deforestation and pose various social problems.

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5. Apart from supplying energy, fossil fuels are also used extensively as feedstock materials to manufacture
be al
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organic chemicals.
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* Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009, Publisher, TMH
 d
(Overview of next lecture)

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Module 04

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(Biomass: Types, Characterization)

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r p er
Lecture 01

rio nd
Content Classification of energy resources,

tp du
Biomass, Broad classification,

ou te
ith h
w yrig
Composition of biomass

ed op
us is c
be al
Thank you
ot eri
nn at
ca m

For queries, feel free to contact at : vvgoud@iitg.ac.in

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 d
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. G
on V
si .
is . V
Renewable Energy Engineering: Solar, Wind

m of
er Pr
and Biomass Energy Systems

r p er
rio nd
tp du
Module - 04

ou te
Lecture – 01 (Part II)

ith h
w yrig
ed op
us is c
be al
Prof. Vaibhav V. Goud and Dr. R. Anandalakshmi
ot eri

Department of Chemical Engineering

nn at

Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati

ca m

Guwahati – 781039, Assam (India)

It is
Th
 d
ou
. G
on V
si .
is . V
Module Module name Lecture Content

m of
er Pr
r p er
rio nd
tp du
04 Biomass: Types, 01 Classification of Energy Resources

ou te
ith h
Characterization (Part-II) Biomass, Broad classification,

w yrig
ed op
Composition of Biomass

us is c
be al
ot eri
nn at
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BIOMASS

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Biomass is any organic matter - wood, crops, seaweed, animal wastes-that can be used as an

.
energy source.

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m of
OR

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The material of plants and animals, including their wastes and residues, is called biomass

rio nd
(organic carbon based, material). A commonly accepted definition is difficult to find (Basu,

tp du
2010). However, the one used by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate

ou te
Change (UNFCCC, 2005) is relevant here.

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w yrig
i.e. non-fossilized and biodegradable organic material originating from plants, animals and

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micro-organisms. This shall also include products, by-products, residues and waste from

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agriculture, forestry and related industries as well as the non-fossilized and biodegradable
be al
organic fractions of industrial and municipal wastes.
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Moreover, it also includes gases and liquids recovered from the decomposition of non-fossil
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and biodegradable organic materials

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* Courtesy: Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP
 d
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Sustainable and renewable energy resource:

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• As a sustainable and renewable energy resource, biomass is constantly being

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formed by the interaction of CO2, air, water, soil, and sunlight with plants and

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animals.

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• For example, the carbon in biomass is obtained from CO2 in the atmosphere via

rio nd
photosynthesis, and not from fossil sources. When the biomass is burnt or digested,

tp du
the emitted CO2 is recycled, so does not increase the total CO2 inventory of the

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Earth. Energy from biomass is therefore, “carbon neutral”.

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w yrig
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Photosynthesis

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Process
Biomass grows through photosynthesis by
be al
absorbing solar energy, carbon dioxide, and
ot eri

water.
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* Courtesy: Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP
Biomass includes only living and recently dead biological species that can be used as fuel or

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in chemical production.

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It does not include organic materials that over many millions of years have been transformed

si .
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by geological processes into substances such as coal or petroleum.

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Biomass comes from botanical (plant species) or biological (animal waste or carcass)

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rio nd
sources, or from a combination of these.

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FORMATION OF BIOMASS

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Incidence of solar radiation on green plants and other photosynthetic organism carry out two

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basic tasks: be al
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(i) proceeds the chemical reaction under controlled temperature, and

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(ii) photosynthesis.
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* Courtesy: Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP
In green plants, fundamental conversion process is photosynthesis. It is the process through which

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botanical biomass is formed through conversion of CO2 in the atmosphere into carbohydrate (sugars,

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starches, celluloses and hemicelluloses) by the sun’s energy in the presence of chlorophyll and water.

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𝑝ℎ𝑜𝑡𝑜𝑠𝑦𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑠
x 𝐶𝑂2 + y H2 𝑂 + sun light C𝑥 ሺH2 O)𝑦 + x O2

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ሺ𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑏𝑜𝑛 dioxide) ሺwater) ሺradiant energy) ሺglucose) ሺoxygen)

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rio nd
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6 𝐶𝑂2 + 6 H2 𝑂 + sun light → C6 𝐻12 𝑂6 + 6 O2

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ሺ𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑏𝑜𝑛 dioxide) ሺwater) ሺradiant energy) ሺglucose) ሺoxygen)

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Chain of these simple structures results in the formation of more such complex hydrocarbons (sucrose,

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starch, cellulose etc.)

us is c
Similarly, reverse of photosynthesis is respiration, in which products are CO2, water and energy. In this
be al
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process energy is produced using carbohydrate and oxygen.

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net energy loss in respiration << net energy gain during photosynthesis
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* Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009, Publisher, TMH
 Therefore, the net energy absorbed from solar radiation during photosynthesis can be

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calculated from its combustion (Khan, 2009):

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photosynthesis
x CO2 + y H2 O + 𝛥Q x O2 + C𝑥 𝐻2𝑂

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𝑦

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combustion

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𝛥Q , is enthalpy change of the combustion process

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rio nd
tp du
𝛥Q = energy absorbed from photons of solar radiation − energy of respiration during growth

ou te
ith h
w yrig
ed op
Thus, the net value of 𝛥Q = 4.8 eV / Carbon atom

us is c = 470 kJ / mole of carbon or 16 MJ/kg of carbohydrate

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* Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009, Publisher, TMH
 TYPES OF BIOMASS

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Broad classification

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si .
is . V
Maiden biomass Waste biomass

m of
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(primary biomass)

r p er
rio nd
tp du
a. Terrestrial biomass a. Agriculture a. Industrial waste b. Forestry a. Municipal
solid waste residues waste

ou te
ith h
w yrig
i. Forest biomass i. Aquatic biomass
ii. Grasses
iii. Energy crops

ed op
iv. Cultivated crops i. Demolition wood, i. MSW

us is c
sawdust ii. Bio solids, sewage
ii. Waste oil/fat
be al
ot eri
nn at
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i. Livestock manures i. Bark, leaves, floor

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ii. Agricultural crop residues

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residue

• Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009, Publisher TMH
• Courtesy: Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
 d
Common sources of biomass are:

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si .
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1. Agricultural residues: Crop residues such as straw, rice husk, bagasse (crushed sugarcane), corn stalks,

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seed hulls, and nutshells.

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r p er
2. Forests: Forests, natural as well as cultivated, serve as a source of fuel wood, charcoal. Forest waste and

rio nd
residues from forest processing industries can be utilized at the mill itself.

tp du
ou te
ith h
The purpose of forest resource is not just to consumed as firewood, but also for swan timber, paper

w yrig
making and other industrial purposes. For example, some fast growing energy intensive trees such as

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poplar, pine, eucalyptus, switchgrass, miscanthus, are specially cultivated for the purpose of Energy.

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be al
3. Urban waste: Urban waste is of two types: (i) Municipal solid waste (MSW or garbage), and (ii) Sewage
ot eri

(liquid waste)
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• Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009

• Courtesy: Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013
 d
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4. Energy crops: Certain cultivated plants produce raw material for energy generation such as,

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• Sugar plants: Sugar cane, Sweet sorghum, Sugar beet

m of
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• Starch plants: Cassava

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• Oil producing plants: Palm, Soybean, Groundnut and Rapeseed etc.

rio nd
tp du
ou te
5. Aquatic plants: Some water plants grow faster than land based plants and provide raw

ith h
w yrig
materials for the purpose of Energy production. (water hyacinth, sea weed, and algae)

ed op
us is c
be al
6. Biological: Animal waste, aquatic species, biological waste
ot eri
nn at
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• Courtesy: Non-conventional energy resources, by B H Khan, 2nd edition, 2009, Publisher TMH
• Courtesy: Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
To decide on the type of a given biomass or feedstock, the following questioner may be used

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Biomass classification

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Besides disposal, do other

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No

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alternative, economically viable (Discarded material)
Waste/landfilling

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options exists for the

rio nd
feedstock?

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Yes

ou te
ith h
w yrig
Is the feedstock by product of main crops or No Main feedstock (not
woody biomass (i.e. straw, husk, shells) or for energy

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exclusively harvested for energy generation generation)

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be al
Yes
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Feedstock for energy

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generation
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 BIOMASS STRUCTURE

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Components of woody biomass

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si .
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m of
Cell wall

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Extractives Ash
components

r p er
rio nd
tp du
Cellulose Hemicellulose Lignin

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ith h
w yrig
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us is c
Extractives It includes substances present in vegetable or animal tissue that can be separated by successive
extraction with solvents and recovered by evaporation of the solution.
be al
ot eri
nn at

These are some lipids and hydrocarbons (terpenes) which are soluble in ether and various types
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of phenolic compounds, carbohydrates and proteins, which may be soluble in benzene, alcohol,
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or water. The soluble components are collectively called extractives.

 Cell wall:

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• Leaves and bark generally contain more extractives and less cell wall materials than wood and woody

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tissues.

.
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si .
is . V
• That is the reason, it provides structural strength to the plant, allowing it to stand tall above the ground

m of
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without support.

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• A typical cell wall is made of carbohydrates and lignin. Carbohydrates are mainly cellulose or hemicellulose

rio nd
tp du
fibers, which impart strength to the plant structure, while lignin holds the fibers together.

ou te
ith h
• These constituents vary with plant type.

w yrig
ed op
Some plants, such as corn, soybeans, and potatoes, also store starch (another carbohydrate polymer)

us is c
and
fats as sources of energy mainly in seeds and roots.
be al
ot eri
nn at
ca m

Ash: The inorganic component of the biomass. The inorganic constituents of biomass are usually present in
It is

minor amounts and comprise elements that are essential for plant growth.
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Courtesy: Biomass Conversion Processes for Energy and Fuels, by S. S. SOFER and O. R. ZABORSKY, 1981, PP, NY
Constituents of Biomass Cells

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The polymeric composition of the cell walls and other constituents of a biomass vary widely but they are

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essentially made of three major polymers: cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin

si .
is . V
m of
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Cellulose:

r p er
rio nd
• It is the world’s most common organic biopolymer.

tp du
• Cellulose is a homopolysaccharide (C6H10O5)n of glucose C-6 sugar (hexosan) units that constitute the

ou te
ith h
w yrig
main structural component of cell walls in biomass.

ed op
• It is a dominant component of wood, making up about 40-45% by dry weight.

us is c
• It has a crystalline structure of thousands of units, which are made up of many glucose molecules.
be al
• It is primarily composed of D-glucose, which is made of C-6 or hexose sugars.
ot eri
nn at

• Cellulose is a major contributor of tar during gasification of biomass.

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Biomass composition, properties, and characterization, W. D. JONG

 d
ou
. G
on V
si .
is . V
m of
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r p er
rio nd
tp du
ou te
Partial structure of cellulose *

ith h
w yrig
ed op
us is c
be al
ot eri
nn at
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It is

Chemical structure of cellobiose$

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Courtsey: $R. M. Rowell, et a., Cell Wall Chemistry from: Handbook of Wood Chemistry and Wood Composites, 2012, CRC Press;
*Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
Hemicellulose (generic formula (C5H8O4)n):

d
ou
. G
on V
• Hemicelluloses are heteropolysaccharides, consisting of C5 and C6 sugars (hexosans, pentosans)

si .
is . V
that are associated with the cellulose, and they are found in the cell wall regions of plants.

m of
er Pr
• Cellulose has a crystalline, strong structure that is resistant to hydrolysis, while hemicellulose has a

r p er
rio nd
random, amorphous structure with little strength.

tp du
• Hemicelluloses serve as a frame cementing material in plant cell walls, holding together the

ou te
ith h
cellulose micelles and fibers.

w yrig
• Composition and structure of hemicellulose varies from biomass to biomass.

ed op
us is c
• Mostly it contains some simple sugar residues like D-xylose (the most common), D-glucose, D-
be al
galactose, L-ababinose, D-glucurnoic acid, and D-mannose.
ot eri
nn at

• Hemicelluloses are soluble in alkali (weak) and are easily hydrolyzed by acids or base (dilute).
ca m

• It tends to yield more gases and less tar than cellulose.

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R. M. Rowell, et a., Cell Wall Chemistry from: Handbook of Wood Chemistry and Wood Composites, 2012, CRC Press
• The content of hemicellulose of a hardwood and a softwood could be comparable, but vary in the
composition of the hemicellulose of these samples.

d
ou
G
Softwood (hemicellulose) Hardwood
galactoglucomannans glucuronoxylan, also called xylan

.
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(in hardwood it is in the range of 10-35%

si .
is . V
and
and (DP 200))

m of
arabino-glucuronoxylan

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(it is in the range of only 7-15% and (DP 100))

r p er
rio nd
• Hemicelluloses are easier to decompose than cellulose, both thermochemically and biochemically,

tp du
due to the less stable intramolecular linkages.

ou te
ith h
w yrig
It is the second most abundant

ed op
biopolymer species in plant biomass,

us is c
be al accounting for about:
ot eri

25–35% of dry wood,

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28% of softwoods, and

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35% of hardwoods
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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015,
Publisher JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
Lignin

d
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• Lignin is one of the most abundant organic polymers on Earth. It is the third important constituent of the cell

G
walls of woody biomass.

.
on V
si .
is . V
• Lignins are amorphous, highly complex, mainly aromatic, polymers of phenylpropane units that are considered

m of
to be an decorating substance.

er Pr
r p er
• Unlike the cellulose and hemicellulose, lignin does not contain any carbohydrates in their polymeric structure.

rio nd
tp du
• Lignin does not have a single repeating unit like cellulose of the hemicelluloses but consists of a complex

ou te
arrangement of substituted phenolic units.

ith h
w yrig
• The precursors of lignin biosynthesis are p-coumaryl alcohol, coniferyl alcohol, and sinapyl alcohol.

ed op
us is c
• Lignins from softwoods are mainly a polymerization product of coniferyl alcohol and are called “guaiacyl
be al
lignin.” In softwoods it varies between 25% and 35%.
ot eri
nn at

• Hardwood lignins are mainly “syringyl–guaiacyl lignin” as they are a copolymer of coniferyl and sinapyl
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alcohols. In hardwood, lignin content varies usually in the range of 18–25%.

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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015,
Publisher JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
 d
ou
. G
on V
si .
is . V
m of
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r p er
rio nd
tp du
ou te
ith h
w yrig
ed op
us is c
be al
ot eri
nn at
ca m

Lignin structure.
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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015,
Publisher JW&S, Inc.
 d
(Overview of next lecture)

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. G
on V
si .
is . V
Module 04

m of
(Biomass: Types, Characterization)

er Pr
r p er
Lecture 02

rio nd
Content Characteristics of biomass,

tp du
Properties of biomass,

ou te
ith h
w yrig
Structural components of biomass

ed op
us is c
be al
Thank you
ot eri
nn at
ca m

For queries, feel free to contact at : vvgoud@iitg.ac.in

It is
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 d
ou
. G
on V
si .
is . V
Renewable Energy Engineering: Solar, Wind

m of
er Pr
and Biomass Energy Systems

r p er
rio nd
tp du
Module - 04

ou te
Lecture – 02 (Part I)

ith h
w yrig
ed op
us is c
be al
Prof. Vaibhav V. Goud and Dr. R. Anandalakshmi
ot eri

Department of Chemical Engineering

nn at

Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati

ca m

Guwahati – 781039, Assam (India)

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 d
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. G
on V
si .
is . V
Module Module name Lecture Content

m of
er Pr
r p er
rio nd
04 Biomass: Types, 02 Characteristics of biomass,

tp du
ou te
Characterization Properties of biomass,

ith h
w yrig
Structural components of biomass

ed op
us is c
be al
ot eri
nn at
ca m
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Characteristics of Biomass

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Why biomass characterization is essential…?

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on V
si .
is . V
• Once the selected biomass resources have been identified, it is relevant to clarify their

m of
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characteristics.

r p er
• The characterization of the biomass feedstock includes its chemical and physical

rio nd
tp du
properties

ou te
ith h
• The entire processing pathway of biomass as renewable energy source is influenced by the

w yrig
type of biomass and its physical characteristics and chemical composition.

ed op
us is c
• As there is a great variation among the property values for different biomasses and their
derived products.
be al
ot eri
nn at

• A proper understanding of the physical and the chemical properties of biomass feedstock is
ca m

essential for the design of a reliable biomass conversion system.

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Converting Biomass to Energy, A Guide for Developers and Investors, 2017 International Finance Corporation
Characteristics affecting the properties of biomass as a fuel

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. G
on V
si .
is . V
Proximate analysis Ultimate analysis Structural

m of
er Pr
• Bulk density • Carbon (%) • Cellulose (%)

r p er
rio nd
• Moisture (M) • Hydrogen (%) • Hemicellulose (%)

tp du
• Volatile matter (VM) • Nitrogen (%) • Lignin (%)

ou te
• Ash (ASH), and • Sulfur (%) • Extractives

ith h
w yrig
• Fixed carbon (FC) • Oxygen (%)

ed op
• HHV

us is c
be al
ot eri
nn at
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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015,
Publisher JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
Proximate analysis

d
ou
Density:

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on V
Density is an important design parameter for any biomass conversion system and for biomass

si .
is . V
processing. There can be three characteristics densities: true, apparent, and bulk density.

m of
er Pr
r p er
a) True density:

rio nd
tp du
Weight per unit volume occupied by the solid constituent of biomass is the True density.

ou te
ith h
total mass of biomass

w yrig
𝜌𝑡𝑟𝑢𝑒 =
solid volume in biomass

ed op
us is c
b) Apparent density: be al
ot eri

This is based on the apparent or external volume of the biomass. This includes its pore volume.
nn at
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As it is easiest to measure and most commonly used for design calculations, and it gives the actual
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volume occupied by a particle in a system.

Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
 d
ou
total mass of biomass

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𝜌𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡 =

.
apparent volume of biomass including solids and internal pores

on V
si .
is . V
m of
er Pr
c) Bulk density:

r p er
rio nd
Bulk density of a sample can be estimated based on the overall space occupied by an

tp du
amount or a group of biomass particles:

ou te
ith h
w yrig
total mass of biomass particles
𝜌𝑏𝑢𝑙𝑘 =
bulk volume occupied by biomass particles

ed op
us is c
be al
The bulk density can be estimated by ASTM E-873-06 method.
ot eri
nn at
ca m
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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
Moisture:

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One of the main constituents of biomass is moisture content, high moisture contents may severely effect the thermal

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conversion (combustion, gasification and pyrolysis ), and also drying is needed (normally less than 10% moisture

on V
si .
is . V
desirable).

m of
 moisture is an important parameter for designing a conversion system, direct cost factor and energy penalty in

er Pr
r p er
drying the biomass, influence the price of fuel.

rio nd
 The amount of heat that can be recovered from the biomass drops dramatically with increasing moisture

tp du
content.

ou te
ith h
w yrig
 More moisture content in the fuel lower its heating value and fuel efficiency.

ed op
 For example: combustion processes, high moisture content may lead to incomplete combustion, low thermal

us is c
efficiency, low flame temperatures, excessive emissions and the formation of tars that could cause
be al
slagging problems.
ot eri
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 lower moisture content cost less to transport and can reduce the size of handling, processing and energy
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conversion equipment's.
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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
Basis of Expressing Moisture

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G
The weight fraction of moisture measured on an “as received” basis, abbreviated as

.
on V
“wet basis,” and can be determined as

si .
is . V
𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑡 − 𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑑𝑟𝑦

m of
𝑀𝑤𝑒𝑡 =
𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑡

er Pr
r p er
rio nd
Sometimes, moisture content db (Mdry) is expressed as:

tp du
ou te
ith h
w yrig
𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑡 − 𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑑𝑟𝑦
𝑀𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑑𝑟𝑦

ed op
us is c
Moreover, the wet basis (Mwet) and the db (Mdry) are related as:
be al
ot eri

1 − 𝑀𝑤𝑒𝑡
nn at

𝑀𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
ca m

𝑀𝑤𝑒𝑡
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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
Percent moisture in the analysis sample can be calculated according to standard ASTM

d
method E871 − 82 (Reapproved 2019):

ou
. G
on V
si .
𝑊𝑖 − 𝑊𝑓

is . V
Moisture in analysis sample, % = × 100
𝑊𝑖 − 𝑊𝑐

m of
er Pr
where:

r p er
Wc = container weight, g,

rio nd
Wi = initial weight, g, and

tp du
Wf = final weight, g.

ou te
ith h
w yrig
Woody and low moisture content herbaceous plant species are the most efficient biomass

ed op
sources for thermal conversion to liquid fuels

us is c
For biochemical (fermentation (i.e. ethanol)) conversion, high moisture herbaceous plant
be al
ot eri

species, such as sugarcane, are more appropriate

nn at
ca m

High moisture herbaceous plant species can also be fermented via another
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biochemical process, anaerobic digestion(AD), to produce methane

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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
Volatile matter:

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G
The volatile matter of a fuel is the condensable and non-condensable vapor released when the fuel is heated.

.
on V
Its amount depends on the rate of heating and the temperature to which it is heated.

si .
is . V
m of
er Pr
Volatile matter is the loss in weight resulting from heating the sample under controlled conditions. The

r p er
rio nd
measured weight loss, exclusive of moisture, forms the volatile matter content (ASTM Test Method E871).

tp du
ou te
𝑊𝑖 − 𝑊𝑓

ith h
w yrig
The weight loss percent calculated as: 𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠, % = × 100 = 𝐴
𝑊𝑖 − 𝑊𝑐

ed op
where:

us is c
Wc = weight of crucible and cover, g,
Wi = initial weight, g, and
be al
Volatile matter percent in the analysis Volatilematter inanalysis sample,%  A  B
ot eri

Wf = final weight, g.
samples calculated as:
nn at
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where: A = weight loss %, and B = moisture, %, as determined using Test Method E871.
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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
Ash:

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 Ash is the inorganic solid residue left after the sample (biomass/wood) is completely burned. Its

.
on V
primary ingredients are Si, Al, Fe, Ca, S, and small amounts of Mg, K, Ti, Na and P oxides may

si .
is . V
also be present.

m of
er Pr
 The ash content is not exactly the same as the original inorganic mineral matter in the sample, as

r p er
rio nd
some of the ash constituents can undergo oxidation during burning. Still, the ash content is a

tp du
fairly good indicator of the ash yields that can be expected in industrial processes.

ou te
ith h
 The ash composition and the ash melting behaviour should be taken into consideration to avoid

w yrig
slagging problems in gasifiers or boilers.

ed op
us is c
 The ash content is an approximate measure of the mineral content and other inorganic matter in
be al
wood.
ot eri
nn at

 The feedstock with the lowest ash content is desirable for biomass conversion system.
ca m
It is
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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
 d
Percent weight of ash based on moisture free sample calculated, as follows (ASTM D1102 − 84):

ou
. G
on V
si .
𝑊1

is . V
𝐴𝑠ℎ, % = × 100
𝑊2

m of
er Pr
r p er
where:

rio nd
W1 = weight of ash, and

tp du
W2 = weight of oven-dry sample.

ou te
ith h
w yrig
ed op
Biomass ash is valued as a soil amendment because of mineral
us is c
nutrients such as phosphate and potash, unlike coal derived ash.
be al
ot eri
nn at
ca m
It is
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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
Fixed carbon (%)

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G
 Fixed carbon is a calculated value, since FC depends on the amount of VM, it is not

.
on V
determined directly. In proximate analysis, it does not include the carbon in the volatile

si .
is . V
matter and is often referred to as the char yield after devolatilization.

m of
er Pr
 It is the resultant of the summation of percentage moisture, ash, and volatile matter

r p er
subtracted from 100.

rio nd
tp du
 All percentages shall be on the same moisture reference base.

ou te
ith h
F.C. (on dry basis) = 100 – (P.C. volatile matter + P.C. ash)

w yrig
ed op
F.C. (on wet basis) = 100 – (P.C. volatile matter + P.C. ash + P.C. moisture)

us is c
be al
In case of gasifier, the rate of gasification and its yield is determined by the conversion of FIXED carbon
ot eri

into gases. Considering this FC conversion as a slowest reaction step (in the reaction mechanism), is used to
nn at
ca m

determine the size of the gasifier. Thus, FC is an important parameter in sizing the gasifiers.
It is
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Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP.
Proximate analysis of sample (Biomass) using TGA

d
ou
. G
on V
Proximate analysis of sample (i.e. biomass) by ASTM D-3172 is time consuming and expensive, an

si .
is . V
alternative method has been proposed by Klass (1998) using thermogravimetry (TG) or differential

m of
thermogravimetry.

er Pr
r p er
rio nd
 Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is often used for thermal decomposition studies of biomass.

tp du
ou te
 The basis of TGA measurement is variation of weight of the sample as a consequence of the thermal

ith h
w yrig
treatment.

ed op
 Using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) technique, one also obtains information about many parameters

us is c
such as moisture, volatiles, FC, and ash contents.
be al
ot eri

 Small piece of solid sample is required for the TGA analysis.

nn at
ca m
It is
Th

Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP. Fundamentals of biofuels engineering and technology, by Cataldo De
Blasio, 2019, Publisher, Springer.
 d
 In TGA plot, a constant slope characterizes the different

ou
steps of thermal decomposition.

G.
on V
 But these steps are hardly detectable in TGA plot, because

si .
is . V
they occur in overlapped temperature ranges.

m of
er Pr
r p er
rio nd
tp du
ou te
ith h
w yrig
ed op
us is c
be al
ot eri
nn at
ca m
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 In that case, DTG plot helps to identify such conversions that overlap or are associated with poor mass loss.

d
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G
 Based on the technique used for analysis of the gas phase, one can determine gases composition evolved

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on V
under controlled heating of the biomass sample.

si .
is . V
m of
 Because of the process, some mass will be lost in terms of volatiles or decomposition and data recorded in

er Pr
the instrument is in the form of mass/weight of the sample as a function of time and therefore temperature.

r p er
rio nd
 The derivative (DTG) of the resulting data (weight curve) relates to the conversion rate of the sample.

tp du
ou te
 At the beginning, drying of the sample occurs. In fact, initially drying commences as soon as the furnace is

ith h
w yrig
purged with a purging gas (ex: nitrogen/helium/argon) to create the required inert atmosphere, since the
used gas is dry.

ed op
us is c
 After drying, devolatilization of the sample begins (150–200 oC), and the devolatilization rate increases
be al
with increased temperature.
ot eri
nn at
ca m
It is
Th

Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP. Fundamentals of biofuels engineering and technology, by Cataldo De
Blasio, 2019, Publisher, Springer.
 Th
It is
ca m
nn at
ot eri
be al
us is c
ed op
w yrig
ith h
ou te
tp du
rio nd
r p er
er Pr
m of
is . V
si .
on V
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ou
d
 d
 Several peaks appear in the derivative weight curve usually corresponds to different thermal

ou
decomposition processes associated with the main constituents of the solid sample (biomass).

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on V
 Which allows to estimate the, hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin content of biomass and also helps to

si .
is . V
estimate the proximate analysis.

m of
er Pr
 At the end of the TGA analysis, pan contains a fraction of the char and inorganic matter.

r p er
rio nd
tp du
 Further, to analyse the ash contain, air is allowed to pass over the sample as a result the carbon content in
a char will burn, leaving ash as a product in the pan.

ou te
ith h
w yrig
 According to the main constituents of the solid sample, each sample produces slightly different amounts of

ed op
char, VM, and ash.

us is c
 Knowledge of these quantities, and of the temperature dependencies of the reactions and associated
be al
ot eri

weight losses, is useful in understanding the operation and design of biomass conversion equipment.
nn at
ca m

 Which makes TGA a reliable and rapid method for performing the proximate analysis of biomass.
It is
Th

Courtesy: Biomass as a Sustainable Energy Source for the Future: Fundamentals of Conversion Processes, 1st edition by W. de Jong and J. R. van Ommen., 2015, Publisher
JW&S, Inc.; Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP. Fundamentals of biofuels engineering and technology, by Cataldo De
Blasio, 2019, Publisher, Springer.
 Th
It is
ca m
nn at
ot eri
be al
us is c
ed op
w yrig
ith h
ou te
tp du
rio nd
r p er
er Pr
m of
is . V
si .
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. G
ou
d
 d
(Overview of next lecture)

ou
. G
on V
si .
is . V
Module 04

m of
(Biomass: Types, Characterization)

er Pr
r p er
Lecture 02 (Part-II)

rio nd
Content Properties of biomass (Cont.),

tp du
Structural components of biomass

ou te
ith h
w yrig
ed op
us is c
be al
Thank you
ot eri
nn at
ca m

For queries, feel free to contact at : vvgoud@iitg.ac.in

It is
Th
 d
ou
. G
on V
si .
is . V
Renewable Energy Engineering: Solar, Wind

m of
er Pr
and Biomass Energy Systems

r p er
rio nd
tp du
Module - 04

ou te
Lecture – 02 (Part II)

ith h
w yrig
ed op
us is c
be al
Prof. Vaibhav V. Goud and Dr. R. Anandalakshmi
ot eri

Department of Chemical Engineering

nn at

Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati

ca m

Guwahati – 781039, Assam (India)

It is
Th
 d
ou
. G
on V
si .
is . V
Module Module name Lecture Content

m of
er Pr
r p er
rio nd
04 Biomass: Types, 02 Characteristics of biomass,

tp du
ou te
Characterization Properties of biomass (Cont.),

ith h
w yrig
Structural components of biomass

ed op
us is c
be al
ot eri
nn at
ca m
It is
Th
Higher heating value (HHV) or Gross calorific value (GCV)

d
ou
G
HHV is defined as the amount of heat released by the unit mass or volume of fuel (initially at

.
on V
si .
25 oC) once it is combusted and the products have returned to a temperature of 25 oC. It

is . V
m of
includes the latent heat of vaporization of water. HHV is also called gross calorific value.

er Pr
r p er
The HHV value can be measured in a bomb calorimeter using ASTM standard D-2015.

rio nd
tp du
ou te
ith h
The higher heating value using above instrument is evaluated by:

w yrig
𝑚𝑤 + K c𝑝𝑤 . 𝛥𝑡 − σ 𝑞𝑖

ed op
𝐻𝐻𝑉 =

us is c
be al 𝑚
where
ot eri

mw - mass of water in the vessel

nn at

K - 0.441 kg -water equivalent value of the calorimeter

ca m

Cpw- specific heat capacity of water;

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𝛥𝑡 - increase in water temperature;

Th

σ 𝑞𝑖 - sum of correction factors for additional thermal effects;

m - weight of the combusted fuel.
qi is the heat required at the starting of the process to combust the wire and thread according to following eqn.

d
ou
G
෍ 𝑞𝑖 = HHVwi mwi + HHVt mt

.
on V
si .
is . V
m of
where

er Pr
mwi mass of burned wire;

r p er
mt mass of combusted thread;

rio nd
HHVwi and HHVt are the higher heating value of wire and thread (kJ/kg)

tp du
ou te
The lower heating value (LHV), also known as the net calorific value, is defined as the amount of

ith h
w yrig
heat released by completely combusting a specified quantity less the heat of vaporization of the
water in the combustion product.

ed op
us is c
The lower heating value, LHV, is evaluated from the HHV as:
be al
9𝐻 𝑀
ot eri

𝐿𝐻𝑉 = HHV − latent heat of vaporization of water ሺkJ/kg) × −

nn at

100 100
ca m
It is

where, H, and M are hydrogen percentage, and moisture percentage, respectively,

Th

Courtesy: Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP. Fundamentals of biofuels engineering and technology, by Cataldo De
Blasio, 2019, Publisher, Springer.
Estimation of Biomass Heating Values

d
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In case, if the estimation of HHV value is not possible experimentally, then HHV value of biomass can be

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estimated from proximate analysis.

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Dulong Berthelot equation is the widely used empirical correlations for estimating HHV value of biomass

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sample, although originally developed for coal, but later used with modified coefficients for biomass.

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Compositional analysis of biomass samples:

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The (polymeric) compositional analysis of biomass is essential as it greatly affect the thermochemical

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conversion of biomass. As explained in earlier slides, a typical biomass primarily contain: Ash, Extractives,

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Cellulose, Hemicellulose, and Lignin.

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Number of techniques are available for the determination of the above components of biomass.

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Determination of some of the components is covered by specific ASTM standards while some are

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estimated according to the methods described by Rowell et al., (2005). The following is a step by step

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brief description of methods that extracts the constituents of the cell walls of wood for their

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determination.

1. Sample preparation us is c
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At first, the sample is to be prepared such that it is free from foreign particles/material.
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(ASTM standard, E-157, provides a detail procedure for the preparation of a sample for the analysis.)
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Courtesy: Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP
1. Extraction of extractive components of biomass

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Extractives are the natural chemical products of biomass that are capable of being extracted by some

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solvents. According to the solvent used in extraction process, extractives are classified as, (Rowell, 2005)

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a. Water soluble, b. Toluene-ethanol, and c. Ether soluble extractives

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Since, the extractives are non structured non polymer compounds present in the biomass that could affect the

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polymeric compositional analysis of biomass. Thus, it is necessary to remove these extractives before the

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down stream analysis of the biomass sample.

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Two methods are available to determine the extractive compounds of biomass.

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• ASTM standard D 1105-96 – for wood sample
• ASTM standard E 1690-08/95 – for wider biomass such as soft wood, as for both hard and soft barkless
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woods, herbaceous materials, agriculture residues, and waste papers

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Apart from that, methods described by Rowell (2005) may be used to determine the extractive compounds of
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biomass. The detail procedure for the estimation of extractive is reported by Basu (2013).
Courtesy: Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP
2. Holocellulose (hemicellulose + cellulose)

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Holocellulose is a water-insoluble carbohydrate fraction of wood materials. ASTM E-1721 standard is used to

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hydrolyze the sample.

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After hydrolyzing, the solid whitish residue left on the filter gives the weight of the lignin free holocellulose

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(Base, 2013).

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Hemicellulose

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Further, the extractive- and lignin-free holocellulose as obtained from above is used for the determination of

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hemicellulose.

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For the convenience, partly details of the method is highlighted below (Basu, 2013).

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“ The sample is treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and acetic acid to get cellulose as a solid residue and
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hemicellulose as the filtrate. This filtrate could be run on HPLC to determine the concentration of different
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monomer present in the sample, for example, glucose, galactose, mannose (hexose), xylose, and arabinose
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(pentose).”
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Courtesy: Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP
Lignin

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Analysis of acid insoluble lignin (also called Klason lignin) of extractive-free biomass is carried out according

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to ASTM D-1166-84, by dissolving a dry extractive-free sample in 72% sulfuric acid followed by secondary

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hydrolysis in fucose. ASTM E 1721-1 is based on hydrolysis in 72% sulfuric acid and water alone.

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Determination of compositional analysis of biomass by ASTM methods is time consuming and expensive, an

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alternative method has been proposed by Klass (1998) using thermogravimetry (TG) or differential

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thermogravimetry.

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Courtesy: Biomass gasification, pyrolysis and torrefaction, by P. Basu, 2nd edition, 2013, Publisher AP
 d
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 In TGA plot, a constant slope characterizes  In that case, DTG plot helps to identify such conversions that overlap

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or are associated with poor mass loss.

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the different steps of thermal
decomposition.
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 Several peaks appear in the derivative weight curve usually
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 But these steps are hardly detectable in corresponds to different thermal decomposition processes associated
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TGA plot, because they occur in overlapped with the main constituents of the solid sample (biomass).
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temperature ranges.
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 Which allows to estimate the, hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin

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content of biomass and also helps to estimate the proximate analysis.

 Degradation of volatile starts at 150–200 oC.

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Two areas of weight loss producing a single peak with a

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plateau or shoulder located at the lower temperature region.

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A small plateau at lower-temperature region represents

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the decomposition of hemicellulose, and

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The next higher-temperature peak represents that of

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cellulose.

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Above approximately 400 oC, most of the volatiles are

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gone and indicates rapid decrease in the devolatilization

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However, beyond this temperature some devolatilization

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can still be observed between 400–600 oC.

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This is caused by lignin decomposition

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Direction: “To check biomass of sufficient quality”

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•

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While discussing the importance of biomass of a “sufficient quality,” it is important to remember that this

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term depends on the technology chosen.

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• If the “sufficient quality,” of biomass is not a fixed criteria, then it can be improved by pretreatment, but it

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will have an impact on capital cost of conversion system, e.g. drying the biomass.

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• Similarly, If biomass with undesirable qualities, such as a high ash content, likewise can be bypassed, for

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example by improving the technology. This also will have an effect on capital cost of the conversion
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• If the fuel is very wet, usually above 60 to 65 %, a combustion process is out of the question, and biogas
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is the relevant option.

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Adapted from: Converting Biomass to Energy, A Guide for Developers and Investors, 2017 IFC