A phenomenological description of biomass powder combustion in internal combustion engines

Fine comminution of torrefied wheat straw for energy applications: properties of the powder and energy balances of the production route

“…For combustion application in engines, the lignocellulosic biomass needs to be conveyed and injected under pressure, which means that its flowability properties are an essential factor in ensuring a regular feed into the engine and avoiding clogging and vaulting phenomena. 6 Flowability is mainly related to physical factors such as the size, shape and surface compositions of particles and can be modified by thermal treatment. 46 The flowability can be evaluated with various indicators.…”

“…5 The energy released can be recovered as a mechanical force and used for high-power generation. Previous studies by our team 4,6–8 have demonstrated that an ultrafine lignocellulosic powder, with a median particle size of around 20 μm, is fully compatible with this application 7 but the energy released depends on the physical and chemical properties of the powder. Thus, the production of such powdered fuel is entirely green, provided that the energy required for the milling remains lower than the heating values of the lignocellulosic biomass.…”