Possibilities and Generated Emissions of Using Wood and Lignin Biofuel for Heat Production

Abstract

Energy (including thermal) needs are growing rapidly worldwide thus leading to increased energy production. Considering stricter requirements for the employment of non-renewable energy sources, the use of biofuel in energy facilities appears as one of the best options, having high potential for growth that will increase in the long run both in the Baltic region and the European Union as a whole. This publication investigates the possibilities of using various blends of biofuel containing lignin for heat production and emissions to the air during combustion processes. The paper examines the chemical composition of lignin and bottom ash and explores the impact of a different ratio of lignin in the fuel mixture, the effect of the power of biofuel combustion plants (boilers) and the influence of fuel supply to the combustion chamber on gaseous pollutants (CO, NOx, SO2) and particulate matter emissions. The results of the conducted study demonstrate that, in contrast to pure lignin, the concentrations of alkali metals, boron and, to a lesser extent, nickel and chlorine have increased the most in bottom ash. The use of lignin can effectively reduce the need for conventional biofuel by 30–100% and to increase the temperature of exhaust gases. The lowest emissions have been observed using a mixture of 30% of lignin and biofuel at the lowest range of power (2.5–4 MW). Under the optimal oxygen/temperature mode, carbon monoxide concentrations are approximately 20 mg/Nm3 and those of nitrogen oxides–500 mg/Nm3. Particulate matter emissions reach 150 mg/Nm3, and hence applying air treatment equipment is required.

Numerical simulation of integrating an air conditioner with an evaporative air cooler

“…As energy consumption continues to rise, saving it becomes increasingly important. Many engineering fields are striving to optimize energy utilization or reduce consumption [1][2][3]. Reducing energy usage can lower dependence on costly oil and gas, significantly impacting a country's economy [4].…”

<span aria-describedby="tippy-17">Research on Solid Biomass Fuels Efficiency and Consumer Pref-Erences in Bulgaria

“…This is crucial for addressing waste generation issues and their negative impact on the environment. Furthermore, the reuse of these materials allows for increased revenue through the sale of secondarily generated solid biofuels, as well as reducing expenses for energy needs [16][17][18][19].…”

Combustion Instability and Ash Agglomeration in Wood Pellets Boiler

“…Recent studies focused on the development of biomass resources such as wood [6,7], wood pellets [8], wood particles [9,10], waste [4,6], etc. In addition, biomass and renewable waste are apparently the main energy sources, whose share will increase in the future [11].…”

“…The main elements in the biomass ash, as described by Magdziarz et al [4] are potassium, calcium, sulfur, chlorine, silicon, and phosphorus. The study conducted by Chlebnikovas et al [11] on using various blends of biofuel containing lignin for heat production and emissions to the air during combustion processes reveals that, in contrast to pure lignin, the concentrations of alkali metals, boron and, to a lesser extent, nickel and chlorine have increased the most in bottom ash.…”