Abstract
Biomass torrefaction is a thermal pre-treatment technique that improves solid fuel properties in relation to its efficient utilization for energy generation. In this study, the torrefaction performance of sewage sludge, a non-lignocellulose biomass and sugarcane bagasse, a lignocellulose biomass were investigated in an electric muffle furnace. The influence of torrefaction temperature on the physiochemical properties of the produced biomaterial were examined. Characterization of the raw and torrefied biomass material were studied using thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis and scanning electron microscopy. From the result obtained, it was evident that an increase in torrefaction temperature up to 350 °C caused a 33.89% and 45.94% decrease in volatile matter content of sewage sludge and sugarcane bagasse, respectively. At a higher temperature of 350 °C, the peak corresponding to OH stretching of hydroxyl group decreased in intensity for both biomasses, showing a decomposition of the hydroxyl group as a result of torrefaction. This enriched the lignin content of the torrefied samples, thus making these solid fuels good feedstock for energy production.
Highlights
Accepted: 17 April 2021Growing interest in the use of biomass material is backed by its cost-effectiveness, sustainability and availability
Bagasse torrefied at 200 ◦ C, BGT250—bagasse torrefied at 250 ◦ C, BGT300—bagasse torrefied at 300 ◦ C, BGT350—bagasse torrefied at 350 ◦ C, and BG Raw—raw bagasse)
Torrefaction performance and characteristics of sewage sludge and sugarcane bagasse samples have been investigated in the present study
Summary
Accepted: 17 April 2021Growing interest in the use of biomass material is backed by its cost-effectiveness, sustainability and availability. Biomass materials have the potential to either replace or augment petroleum-derived feedstocks for energy production, as well as in the development of a range of value-added products. It can be applied in the production of carbon material used in energy storage devices such as supercapacitors [1]. Lignocellulose, representing the most abundant renewable and naturally occurring biomass, comprises of components such as cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. These components, individually, are important biomaterials with significant applications.
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