Abstract
ABSTRACT Pelletization is a technique used to compact biomass, generating a granulated material called pellets, with high energy density. The objectives of this work were to produce pellets made from Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) residuals and to evaluate its quality. Firstly, the residuals were characterized, followed by the production of the pellets. An experimental framework was adopted, entirely randomized with three treatments: T1 – 100% Sorghum, T2 – Sorghum + addition of wheat starch, and T3 – Sorghum with the addition of steam. There was also a comparison of the properties of the pellets with values determined by the European standard. It was concluded that Sorghum biomass (Sorghum bicolor) residuals are viable for pellet production; products obtained were homogenous and easy to handle; the treatment T1 presented the best results for pellet production; all treatments produced pellets within the specifications of the EN 14961-6 (DIN, 2012) standard for non-wood pellets.
Highlights
The worldwide energy production chain is dependent on petroleum and mineral carbon
A series of alternatives for generating energy has been developed over the past years, addressing environmental, technological, political and social issues – one such being biomass (Abramowski & Posorski, 2000)
In relation to the Net Calorific Value (NCV) of the particles, there was no statistical difference in the treatments T1 and T3, while for the pellets produced with the addition of 2% starch, these obtained the lowest values, leading to the consideration of the relationship as inversely proportional to the moisture
Summary
The worldwide energy production chain is dependent on petroleum and mineral carbon. These two sources have dominated the energy production supply since the industrial revolution, between the 18th and 19th centuries. Given this scenario, a series of alternatives for generating energy has been developed over the past years, addressing environmental, technological, political and social issues – one such being biomass (Abramowski & Posorski, 2000). Embrapa has researched Sorghum biomass, which presents energy potential similar to sugar cane, eucalyptus and elephant grass, for some years. The material can be used in thermoelectric plants as well as in industries that use boilers and generate energy for their own consumption
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