Abstract
Cassava rhizome (CR) was torrefied to provide superior solid fuel quality for further gasification process. The torrefaction was carried out in the absence of oxygen at 220, 240, 260, and 280°C with a fixed residence time. Solid fuel after torrefaction has a higher calorific value from that of reduced volatile matters. The optimum energy yield of torrefied CR is 88.16% at 260°C. The heating value of 20.86 MJ/kg for a torrefied product can be achieved compared to 15.37 MJ/kg for untreated CR. The subsequent gasification of torrefied CR at temperature of 800°C yielded the highest gas product of 65 wt.%. The carbon and hydrogen conversions into CO and H2 were 14.28% and 29.95%, respectively. Synthesis gas (syngas) from the conversion maintained the H2/CO ratio of around 2–2.50, which is suitable for the Fischer–Tropsch process or can be used as the feedstock for petrochemical industry.
Highlights
The torrefaction treatment or mild pyrolysis is conducted at a temperature of 200–300°C in an inert atmosphere, i.e., in the absence of oxygen
The Cassava rhizome (CR) sample used in this work showed proximate and ultimate analysis values comparable with previous works [3, 5]
The results indicated that the heating value of torrefied CR increases by more than 35% when processed at 260°C for 30 min
Summary
The torrefaction treatment or mild pyrolysis is conducted at a temperature of 200–300°C in an inert atmosphere, i.e., in the absence of oxygen. Parts of the original component in the biomass, such as volatile compounds, lignocellulosic materials (hemicellulose, cellulose and lignin), are decomposed at different temperatures. Homchat et al (2012) conducted a slow pyrolysis of fresh and dried CR with a large-scale metal kiln which resulted in less charcoal in the case of fresh CR (10–13 wt.%) due to the moisture content. This bio-oil product contained high oxygenated compounds as acids with low pH value. Further improvement of fuel product properties from CR thermal conversion can be accomplished by upgrading the input raw materials via torrefaction.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
