Abstract
The recognition of the effects of fossil fuel consumption resulted in several agreements, legislation, and projects focusing on the minimization of impacts caused. Biomass is a versatile energy source. Eucalyptus is a fast-growing crop, mainly used by the pulp and paper industry. Torrefaction is a thermochemical conversion process that can improve biomass fuel properties, enabling its use in the energy sector. However, correct management of biomass is crucial for the sustainability of this process. Torrefaction can also be used to eliminate some elements that can hinder subsequent conversion processes. One example is chlorine, which, during combustion or gasification processes, can form hydrochloric acid that leads to corrosion of metal surfaces. In this context, this research aimed to determine the temperature at which chlorine is eliminated during torrefaction process. For this purpose, several tests were performed at different temperatures and residence times. All samples were analyzed before and after the process, and were characterized by proximate and elemental analysis, calorimetry, and chlorine titration. The analysis showed that, even for the lowest torrefaction temperature used, chlorine content was already below the detection value, showing that, even at lower temperatures, thermal treatment is an efficient technique for the elimination of chlorine from biomass.
Highlights
IntroductionBiomass can be converted into usable forms of energy, such as heat and electricity [4]
Humans have used energy derived from fossil fuels for a long time without thinking of the consequences, and it is increasingly clear that actions must be taken to rectify the situation [1].Ever growing concentration of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere, the shortage of fossil fuel reserves, and the rise in temperature are some of the main concerns presently faced by mankind, and with each passing day new research provides different pathways to address these challenges, or at least part of them [2]
All samples were weighed as soon as they were separated, and a portion of each sample followed to the forced air oven for initial moisture content determination
Summary
Biomass can be converted into usable forms of energy, such as heat and electricity [4]. It can be obtained from several sources, including waste from forestry and agricultural operations, or from other industries, such as pulp and paper, or textile industries [5]. This energy source has many advantages if managed correctly. It is highly available, produces low levels of GHGs during its conversion, and can result in many different energy forms, following actual energy grid needs [6]. Wasteful consumption without replacement, lack of treatment for secondary gaseous products, and even the high costs of transportation make the use of biomass oftentimes unfeasible and environmentally unfriendly [7]
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