Effect of extractives on the physicochemical properties of biomass pellets: Comparison of pellets from extracted and non-extracted sycamore leaves

Abstract

Physicochemical properties of biomass pellets were compared following their preparation from extracted and non-extracted sycamore leaves. The goal was to achieve high-quality biomass pellets. Batches of pellets were prepared at different moisture contents and pressure. The properties, including pellet density, diametric compressive strength, and combustion performance, were analyzed. Pellets produced from extracted leaves had higher pellet density (between 1125 and 1250 kg·m-3) compared to those made from non-extracted leaves. In addition, data of the combustion experiment showed more weight loss in extracted leaves’ pellets and a higher burning rate (9.54%·min-1) than that of non-extracted leaves’ pellets (8.47%·min-1). Also, the pellets made from extracted leaves could be ignited and burned easily compared to non-extracted leaves. However, the diametric compressive strength was not always higher in extracted leaves’ pellets compared to non-extracted. In general, it was concluded that extraction could increase the pellet density and improve combustion performance but did not fit the purpose to increase the diametric compressive strength. The analysis and conclusions can provide a reference for the production of high-quality biomass pellets.

Densification of Yak Manure Biofuel Pellets and Evaluation of Parameters: Effects on Properties

“…Based on the above results, the fact that the binder addition could not improve the fuel pellet quality might be related to the characteristics of yak manure, that is to say, there might be a chemical layer on the surface of yak manure, which hindered the formation of a bridge or chemical reaction between binder and particles [10].…”

“…It is a process of the dried and crushed biomass raw materials (for, e.g., agriculture and forestry residues, livestock manure, municipal solid waste, sewage, etc.) rearranged into specific shapes and sizes under a certain temperature, pressure, and moisture content [10]. The pellets with higher density, heating values, and low emissions can be used as feedstocks for cooking and heating [11].…”

Study of Combustion Characteristics and Kinetics of Agriculture Briquette Using Thermogravimetric Analysis

“…Facing a serious challenge of the shortage problem of fossil energy coupled with environmental degradation has made the awareness of the development of alternative energy sources an urgent matter. Among various forms of renewable energy, biomass has captured attention for its huge resources, low cost, renewable nature, and low emissions. − It can also become the future source of energy for its low carbon dioxides and sulfur oxides than fossil fuels . Biomass ranks fourth after coal, oil, and gas, providing approximately 14% of the global energy demand .…”

“…Agriculture and forestry residues, livestock manure, municipal solid waste, sewage, wastewater, and energy plants are the main sources of biomass. China is an agricultural country, and a large amount of biomass is produced every year, which equals 460 million tons of standard coal . However, the low density and high costs of handling, transportation, and storage restricted its further utilization. − They are combusted directly without the optimization of energy efficiency, or they are left on farming area, potentially causing loss of energy and air and water pollution .…”