Abstract

The torrefaction process upgrades biomass characteristics and produces solid biofuels that are coal-like in their properties. Kinetics analysis is important for the determination of the appropriate torrefaction condition to obtain the best utilization possible. In this study, the kinetics (Friedman (FR) and Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS) isoconversional methods) of two final products of lignocellulosic feedstocks, miscanthus (Miscanthus x giganteus) and hops waste (Humulus Lupulus), were studied under different heating rates (10, 15, and 20 °C/min) using thermogravimetry (TGA) under air atmosphere as the main method to investigate. The results of proximate and ultimate analysis showed an increase in HHV values, carbon content, and fixed carbon content, followed by a decrease in the VM and O/C ratios for both torrefied biomasses, respectively. FTIR spectra confirmed the chemical changes during the torrefaction process, and they corresponded to the TGA results. The average Eα for torrefied miscanthus increased with the conversion degree for both models (25–254 kJ/mol for FR and 47–239 kJ/mol for the KAS model). The same trend was noticed for the torrefied hops waste samples; the values were within the range of 14–224 kJ/mol and 60–221 kJ/mol for the FR and KAS models, respectively. Overall, the Ea values for the torrefied biomass were much higher than for raw biomass, which was due to the different compositions of the torrefied material. Therefore, it can be concluded that both torrefied products can be used as a potential biofuel source.

Highlights

  • Under the Paris Agreement, which commits almost 200 countries to limiting climate change, the European Commission set a long-term goal for a climate-neutral Europe by2050 [1]

  • To overcome these challenges and enhance the suitability of biomass as a potential solid biofuel source used in thermochemical processes, the torrefaction process is stepping up [13,14]

  • The results indicated that the addition of organic extractives reduced deoxidation efficiency of structural components during torrefaction

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Summary

Introduction

Under the Paris Agreement, which commits almost 200 countries to limiting climate change, the European Commission set a long-term goal for a climate-neutral Europe by2050 [1]. Biomass can be converted into three main product types: electrical/heat energy, transport fuel, and chemical feedstock to form solid, liquid, and gaseous products [8] To obtain these products, thermochemical, biochemical, or physicochemical technological routes must be followed [9]. As said, compared to other biomaterials it has a lot of advantages; disadvantages such as low calorific value, low energy density, and high moisture content may cause problems in its transport and/or storage [12] To overcome these challenges and enhance the suitability of biomass as a potential solid biofuel source used in thermochemical processes, the torrefaction process is stepping up [13,14]

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