QUALITY OF PELLETS FROM OLIVE GROVE RESIDUAL BIOMASS

Abstract

Two of the main environmental problems that man currently faces are the high rate of waste generation and energy consumption, both bearing directly upon climate change. The situation requires a change in waste management models, with a greater focus on waste reduction, recycling and appraisal, as well as a change in energy models. This signifies the use of renewable energy sources to supply part of the future demands of fossil fuel. Such sources include biomass sources from agricultural waste. Southern Spain has a large supply of biomass of a residual nature from agricultural activities, such as olive pruning. However, the use of pellets made from olive tree leaves or a mixture of different parts of olive trees is not as yet widespread. This research shows that the use of different types of raw materials from olive grove residues results in pellets with different physical and chemical properties, which define their possible application. More research is needed to design the production of pellets, which will have properties suitable for specific applications and which will possess the quality that satisfies accepted standards and norms.