Biomass Conversion Processes Research Articles

Highly efficient activation of persulfate by encapsulated nano-Fe0 biochar for acetaminophen degradation: Rich electron environment and dominant effect of superoxide radical

In this study, an encapsulated nanoscale zero-valent iron biochar (BC-Fe0) derived from waste lignocellulose rice straw (RS) was synthesized. BC-Fe0 has excellent properties, including long-term stability, a large specific surface area, many micropore structures, active defects active and oxygen-containing groups. The material was first used to activate persulfate (PDS), showing a highly efficient catalysis for acetaminophen (ACT) degradation. The removal efficiency of ACT within 20 min reached 100%, and the degradation rate constant (kobs) reached 0.37475 min−1 at the ACT concentration of 10 mg/L, BC-Fe0 of 0.5 g/L, temperature of 298 K. EPR demonstrated that ·OH, SO4−·, ·O2− and 1O2 occurred during the reaction process, and ·O2−, 1O2 and electron transfer played major roles in PDS/BC-Fe0 system. Fe0 nanoparticles promoted the activation of PDS to generate ·O2−, which induced a series of other reactive oxygen species (ROS) to attack ACT. C = O might also contribute to the production of 1O2. In addition, graphitic carbon, C–O, defects and micropores on BC-Fe0 together created a rich electron environment, which is conducive to the redox reaction between ACT and ROS. Satisfyingly, BC-Fe0 not only had a high catalytic activation capacity, but also exhibited a desirable durability and recyclability. The development of BC-Fe0 catalysts and the study of PDS activation for organic pollutant degradation are significant to biomass conversion and advanced oxidation processes in environmental remediation.

Techno-economic assessment of renewable methanol from biomass gasification and PEM electrolysis for decarbonization of the maritime sector in California

At scale, biomass-based fuels are seen as long-term alternatives to conventional shipping fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime sector. While the operational benefits of renewable methanol as a marine fuel are well-known, its cost and environmental performance depend largely on production method and geographic context. In this study, a techno-economic and environmental assessment of renewable methanol produced by gasification of forestry residues is performed. Two biorefinery systems are modeled thermodynamically for the first time, integrating several design changes to extend past work: (1) methanol synthesized by gasification of torrefied biomass while removing and storing underground a fraction of the carbon initially contained in it, and (2) integration of a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolyzer for increased carbon efficiency via hydrogen injection into the methanol synthesis process. The chosen use case is set in California, with forest residue biomass as the feedstock and the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach as the shipping fuel demand point. Methanol produced by both systems achieves substantial lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions savings compared to traditional shipping fuels, ranging from 38 to 165%, from biomass roadside to methanol combustion. Renewable methanol can be carbon-negative if the CO2 captured during the biomass conversion process is sequestered underground with net greenhouse gas emissions along the lifecycle amounting to −57 gCO2eq/MJ. While the produced methanol in both pathways is still more expensive than conventional fossil fuels, the introduction of CO2eq abatement incentives available in the U.S. and California could bring down minimum fuel selling prices substantially. The produced methanol can be competitive with fossil shipping fuels at credit amounts ranging from $150 to $300/tCO2eq, depending on the eligible credits.

Kinetic Model of Catalytic Steam Gasification of 2-Methoxy-4-methylphenol Using 5% Ni–0.25% Ru/γAl2O3 in a CREC-Riser Simulator

Hydrogen is an energy vector with a great potential due its ample range of applications and clean combustion cycle. Hydrogen can be produced through biomass steam gasification, with novel catalysts being of significant value to implement this process. With this goal in mind, in the present study, 5 wt % Ni/γAl2O3 promoted with 0.25 wt % Ru was synthesized and characterized. It is assumed that ruthenium facilitates hydrogen transfer to nickel oxide sites, promoting a hydrogen spillover effect, with the H2 adsorbed on Ru being transported to Ni sites. To describe chemical changes, the present study considers a kinetic model involving Langmuir–Hinshelwood-based rate equations, as a sum of independent reactions, with this being applied to the steam gasification of 2-methoxy-4-methylphenol (2M4MP). This tar biomass surrogate was studied in a fluidized CREC (Chemical Reactor Engineering Centre) Riser Simulator reactor, at different reaction times (5, 20 and 30 s.) and temperatures (550 °C, 600 °C and 650 °C). The proposed kinetics model was fitted to the experimentally observed H2, CO2, CO, CH4 and H2O concentrations, with the estimated pre-exponential factors and activation energies being in accordance with the reported literature data. It is anticipated that the postulated model could be of significant value for the modeling of other biomass conversion processes for hydrogen production using other supported catalysts.

Microalgae cultivated in wastewater catalytic hydrothermal liquefaction: Effects of process parameter on products and energy balance

Different harvested process can be decreased the costs of microalgae growth, to remove nutrients and improve the carbon cycle. Promising process for the conversion of biomass to fuel or bio-crude oil has been used for the better quality bio-oil. Hydrothermal liquefaction is promising process for the aquatic biomass conversion, as it has been operated in the presence of high moisture in the biomass. Catalytic hydrothermal liquefaction of ozone-air flotation for harvesting microalgae grown in wastewater was investigated for bio-crude production. The effect different reaction parameters in the catalytic HTL on the distribution of bio-crude and hydrocarbons was experimentally evaluated using microalgae grown in wastewater, and harvested by ozone-air flotation and gravity-sedimentation, respectively. Hydrothermal liquefaction was carried out under water solvent at temperature range of 300–350 °C, reaction times (30–120 min) and ZSM-5 and MCM-41 catalyst with different catalysts amount. The bio-crude yields obtained from non catalytic and catalytic bio-oil yield range of 17.3–39.7 wt%. Maximum bio-oil yield (39.7 wt%) was found with ZSM-5 catalytic hydrothermal liquefaction process. Using ZSM-5 catalysts the production of hydrocarbon yield was doubled compared to the non-catalytic and MCM-41 catalytic HTL reaction. After HTL reaction the obtained bio-oil has been utilization was analyzed to understand Net Energy Ratio value and the carbon footprint. It has been found that harvested microalgae catalytic HTL bio-oil significantly decreased greenhouse gas emissions compared to the conventional grow microalgae HTL bio-oil. The deamination and deoxygenation reactions were observed in the tests without catalyst as the temperature increased and improved with ZSM-5 catalyst, resulted decreasing the content of N and O in the bio-oil.

Understanding the biomass conversion processes of bovine gut microbiota through community-wide metabolic interaction network

Biofuels derived from plant biomass can serve as an alternative for reducing the global energy demands. However, breakdown of plant biomass requires an energy-intensive pretreatment process. Biomass pretreatment with microbial communities can help for efficient biofuel production. A diverse microbial population residing inside the bovine gut is efficient for the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass. Here, we report a community-wide metabolic interaction network (CMIN) of 223 microbial species identified from the bovine gut environment. CMIN helped to understand the metabolic interactions of cellulolytic, fermentative, and methanogenic microbial species during the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass. Several key lignocellulolytic species have been identified through the interspecies influence network. Moreover, the lignocellulose degradation network represented the sequential events of microbial biomass conversion and their GH enzyme activities. Therefore, the overall interaction study will be effective for understanding the natural biomass conversion machinery in bovine gut.

Efficient dehydration of fructose into 5-HMF using a weakly-acidic catalyst prepared from a lignin-derived mesoporous carbon

A lignin-derived mesoporous carbon solid acid catalyst (LDMCC) was prepared using alkali lignin as a carbon source and KCl as a salt template to generate a carbon support that was carboxylated with acrylic acid. The prepared LDMCCs were characterized by various spectroscopies (FTIR, XPS, XRD, Raman), porosity determinations (BET), microscopies (SEM, TEM), thermogravimetric analysis, and acid-base titration. The LDMCC produced at the highest carbonization temperature (900 °C) possesses a rich porous structure, high specific surface area (1197.1 m2·g−1), large pore volume (0.63 cm3·g−1), and abundant –COOH groups (2.4 mmol·g−1). This weakly acidic catalyst exhibits excellent synergistic catalytic performance with DMSO in the catalytic dehydration of fructose to prepare 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF); the yield of 5-HMF was 96.0% using dimethyl sulfoxide as the solvent, reaction conditions of 180 °C for 2.0 h, and a catalyst loading of 0.1 mg·mg−1. In addition, the prepared LDMCC exhibits excellent reusability over five cycles of use without significant loss in its catalytic activity. This study provides a novel green route for the preparation of a weakly acidic catalyst which may be useful for a variety of biomass conversion processes.

Perspective of nanomaterials for sustainable biofuel and bioenergy production

Bioenergy can play an essential role as an alternative energy source owing to adverse effects on the environment due to excessive usage of fossil fuels. The primary sources of bioenergy are biomass. But many problems arise in preliminary processes for biomass conversion into bioenergy, such as enzymatic hydrolysis, pretreatment, and biomass cultivation. The nanomaterials can play an essential role in overcoming problems associated with biomass sources for conversion and storage into bioenergy. It provides unique active sites for reaction and process. Further, nanomaterials also have great potential to enhance the efficiency of bioenergy generation from biomass. Thus, this featured article discusses the role of nanomaterials in biomasses, biofuel, bioethanol, and biodiesel to strengthen the efficiency of bioenergy storage and conversion. In addition, this article will also address the limitations and challenges of using nanomaterials for biomasses, biofuel, bioethanol, and biodiesel systems.

Conversion of biomass-derived feedstocks into value-added chemicals over single-atom catalysts

The current review article summarizes the recent advances of SACs in the biomass conversion process. A detailed and fundamental discussion is made from the aspects of unique activity, reaction mechanism, and industrial implications of SACs.

Energy and exergy analyses of bio-jet fuel production from full components in lignocellulosic biomass via aqueous-phase conversion

• Aqueous conversion of three components in corn stalk to bio-jet fuel is simulated. • Energy and exergy analyses of bio-jet fuel production are performed. • Lignin to bio-jet fuel is beneficial to thermodynamic performance. • Aqueous-phase conversion has a higher bio-jet yield compared with GFT. • High-temperature combustion and gasification are disadvantageous to energy quality. Lignin is usually burned for heat supply in aqueous-phase conversion of lignocellulosic biomass to aviation fuel due to its difficult utilization by hydrolysis, which limits the increase in the bio-jet fuel yield. To improve the performances, this study investigates novel processes to produce aviation ranged hydrocarbons by utilizing lignin combined with cellulose and hemicellulose to achieve alternative utilization of full components. The aqueous-phase conversion processes of lignocellulosic biomass to bio-jet fuel via different utilization methods for lignin are simulated based on Aspen Plus. The thermodynamic performances of the different cases, i.e., lignin to bio-jet fuel (Case 1), lignin to co-production of bio-jet fuel and hydrogen (Case 2), lignin to hydrogen and combustible fuel (Case R), and biomass gasification with Fischer–Tropsch synthesis, are compared by energy and exergy analyses. Also, the energy-quality improvement rate is proposed to evaluate the process performance. The results show that Case 1 has the highest bio-jet fuel yield (107.7 kg/t-bio) and the highest overall energy and exergy efficiencies (43.5% and 27.2%, respectively); however, Case 2 has the best energy-quality improvement rate (14.7%). In addition, the hydrolysis of lignin to bio-jet fuel combining gasification to hydrogen is beneficial for conversion of the biogenic carbon into bio-jet fuel. Energy and exergy analyses indicate that the largest energy loss occurs in the furfural unit (∼19.5%), followed by combustion unit (∼10.4%) and levulinic acid unit (∼10.3%), while the greatest exergy loss occurs in the combustion unit (∼34.0%). The results indicate that the mild reaction conditions can alleviate the decreases in energy quality of conversion processes. Compared to the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis case with the bio-jet fuel yield of 86.4 kg/t-bio, the aqueous-phase conversion leads to a higher bio-jet fuel yield but a lower systematic efficiency. Moreover, the results show that the conversion of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin to bio-jet fuel is not sufficiently high and more consumption of chemicals also leads to the lower systematic efficiency. This work is valuable to the future improvement of the full conversion of lignocellulosic biomass for bio-jet fuel production.

Exploring the potential of coconut shell biomass for charcoal production

Coconut shells are produced in a vast amount around tropical countries that needs to be utilized properly. Thermochemical methods are the main route for converting biomass to charcoal. Percentage of some relative factors in the biomass such as low-density, low caloric value, high ash, SOX, NOX, moisture content, microstructure, and complex elements are its major drawbacks. Nevertheless, no scientific studies were conducted on the carbonization of converting coconut shells to charcoal from local to global scales. Therefore, comprehensive and precise data on its production is limited. To overcome these problems; biomass materials need to be evaluated to assure the suitability of the biomass for the thermochemical process to curtail the yearning of energy demand. For the overall efficiency of the biomass conversion processes into the preference biomass-derived fuel, it is important to understand the physicochemical characteristics of the biomass. The paper aims at understanding the specialties of coconut shell biomass, which is directly used for thermochemical conversion mainly for charcoal production via; chemical structure, energy potential, and morphological analysis. The biomass exhibits a high: density of 412 kg/m3, a calorific value of 19.4 MJ/kg, fixed carbon of 21.8%, a volatile matter of 70.8%, carbon of 40.1%, and low amount moisture of 5.6%, and ash of 1.8%. EDX and XRF analysis revealed a low amount of complex heavy metals, trace amounts of sulfur, and nitrogen, thus pre-treatment is not required before its utilization, ideal for thermochemical conversion. The coconut shell possesses amorphous and crystalline carbonaceous materials based on the XRD spectrum. The morphology on FESEM images and surface area analysis shows that the coconut shell contains heterogeneous shapes and scales of macro-pores with high surface area and porosity in nature. These essential qualities are suitable for charcoal production, activated carbon, insect repellent, filler, incense sticks, and other applications. Coconut shell possesses remarkable properties such as carbon-rich and environmentally friendly solid fuel to other biomass and coal materials; hence, it is possible to produce alternative energy from coconut shell biomass due to its several characteristics.

Recent Development of Biomass Conversion using Ionic Liquid-based Processes

The amount of biomass products generated globally increases year after year. Nature produces lignocellulose, which is largely constituted of three components in the following order: cellulose (34–50%), hemicellulose (15–35%), and lignin (5–30%). A promising conversion method known as biomass conversion employs a liquid media-based process to address the issue of an abundance of biomass as waste. Converting biomass with ionic liquid (IL) can address not only environmental issues caused by the abundance of biomass waste but also generate new energy sources or new products with economical selling value. IL can be employed as a green catalyst, solvent, or electrolyte, as well as in a number of conversion processes. In general, 1-alkyl-3-methyl-imidazolium-based cations are the most commonly used IL types for biomass conversion. The conversion conditions are relatively mild, consisting of a low temperature of around 95-220 °C, 1 atm, for 10–240 minutes. This paper review is expected to be a significant reference in the future for the development of other biomass conversion processes.

Analytics Driving Kinetics: Advanced Mass Spectrometric Characterization of Petroleum Products

The current state-of-the-art analysis techniques for petroleum fractions has progressed substantially during the past decade. This has helped to further improve the lumping procedures and modeling approaches of these complex systems. Recent advances in gas chromatography (GC), GC-field ionization mass spectrometry (GC-FIMS), and comprehensive gas chromatography (GC×GC) have made it possible to determine the compositions of fractions with up to 45 carbon atoms and in some cases up to C80. The combination of MS techniques with other selective detectors and reversed-phase column combinations has made it possible to quantify even traces of heteroatomic compounds in these complex hydrocarbon matrices. Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR-MS), in some cases combined with GC×GC for the lighter part, has pushed the characterization of larger macromolecules in particular asphaltenes. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) is also used widely for this purpose but has the disadvantage that quantification is not obvious. The development of more detailed characterization techniques has not remained unnoticed in the petrochemical society and more recently in the petrochemical kinetic modeling society. More detailed characterization of petrochemical fractions has made the implementation of detailed kinetic models for simulation and optimization possible including more and more molecular detail. Additionally, advances in photoionization mass spectrometry (PI-MS) have allowed the detection of reactive intermediates and direct kinetic measurements in time-resolved experiments. It can only be expected that this trend will continue and that the application field will move from now primarily petrochemistry (from catalytic cracking, over hydrotreating, and hydrocracking to pyrolysis, combustion, and steam cracking) to larger-scale chemical recycling and biomass conversion processes.

Development of a semi-empirical model for woody biomass gasification based on stoichiometric thermodynamic equilibrium model

The gasification process is a complex biomass conversion process, so mathematical models are a useful tool to support its study. This work aimed to develop empirical correlations for the prediction of tar and coal and methane and apply these correlations, and then proposed and evaluated models based on the thermodynamic equilibrium model. Based on the empirical correlations developed (R-squared of 0.75, 0.77 and 0.64) 6 modified models were proposed, which were compared to the basic model. The M6 model that applied the three empirical correlations in its resolution was the model that best described the experimental results. It was concluded that the application of empirical correlations can improve the prediction of the behavior of a downdraft gasification system, achieving a reduction in the root-mean-square error of up to 52% of the value compared to the basic model, without the application of empirical correlations. The novelty of this study part of formulated the models by combing the empirical correlations in different ways with other strategies to correct the nonequilibrium deviations, in a manner that predicts gas composition and simultaneously fractions of tar and char, both undesirable compounds and main problems in syngas application.

Advanced integrated nanocatalytic routes for converting biomass to biofuels: A comprehensive review

In the latest decade, the energy requirements have raised, the fact that directly influenced the increase in fossil fuel consumption. Taking into account the pollution problems associated with fossil fuels, biomass resources come as a promising alternative energy source. The biomass to biofuel conversion can be achieved through strategies such as thermochemical (gasification and direct liquefaction) or biological processes. Moreover, catalytic approaches are increasingly used for biofuel production. In this context, the role of nanocatalysts becomes crucial when considering product quality and optimal operating conditions. Novel nanocatalysts with advanced properties can reduce the most common problems encountered in heterogeneous catalysts: unproductiveness, resistance to mass transfer, time-intensive, rapid deactivation. Consequently, the development of new types of nanocatalysts registered a rising trend. This work focuses on biofuels and tackles a series of aspects such as classification, production technologies, and strategies for yield increase in the context nanocatalysts use. Finally, the future outlooks and challenges of biomass conversion processes to biofuels using nanocatalysts were examined.

Techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment of olive and wine industry co-products valorisation

In this work, a valorisation of olive and wine industry co-products (olive pomace and grape marc, respectively) through different thermochemical processes is studied. The characterization of olive pomace and grape marc is made to evaluate which thermochemical process is more suitable for each type of biomass and a specific application. Then, a life cycle assessment (LCA) of olive pomace value chain is made to assess the environmental impacts. Several scenarios of biomass conversion process were considered: combustion, gasification and hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) followed by gasification to generate electricity; and pyrolysis to produce biochar, bio-oil and syngas. Finally, a techno-economic analysis was performed for each mentioned scenario to evaluate the feasibility and conclude which scenario is more economically advantageous. Results suggest that valorisation of olive pomace might be more suitable through the gasification process and grape marc through the pyrolysis process. From the LCA was possible to conclude that combustion scenario has the highest environmental impact. In comparison, gasification, HTC and pyrolysis presented a lower impact with a value of 69.45%, 50.96% and 40.97%, respectively, considering combustion as 100% impact. Regarding the techno-economic analysis, several scenarios have promising results with some scenarios with payback periods inferior to 5 years. The only exception is HTC followed by gasification which in current days is not competitive with other technologies. Overall gasification and pyrolysis are promising alternatives to the valorisation of olive pomace and grape marc. The drying process has an important role in terms of environmental impact and economic viability.

Simulation Analysis of the Pyrolysis Process for the Production of Syngas from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch and Fiber

There have been many efforts to reduce the use of fossil fuels and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by using renewable energy (solar energy, wind energy, water energy, and energy obtained from biomass) as a substitute for fossil fuels. As one of the largest CPO producers globally, Indonesia produces 4 kilograms of dry biomass for every 1 kilogram of oil palm produced. The biomass conversion process into synthetic gas (syngas) can be carried out using the pyrolysis process. The syngas can be used as an alternative fuel for an internal combustion engine. This study aims to simulate the pyrolysis process to obtain syngas’ characteristics made from oil palm empty bunches (EFBs) and palm fiber. Around 4 kg EFB and 2 kg of fiber are used as pyrolysis raw materials. The Aspen Plus simulation was used to design and analyzed the pyrolysis flow processes. The results showed that the hot syngas produced at a working temperature of 450°C to 650°C was 1.475 kg/hr to 1.587 kg/hr. The cold syngas produced is 0.969 kg/hr to 1.407 kg/hr. The heating value of hot syngas is 10,348 kJ/kg to 14,213.55 kJ/kg, and cold syngas is 15,751.51 kJ/kg to 16,022.7 kJ/kg. Change in syngas composition between hot and cold syngas is due to the condensation process. The minimum condenser area required to produce cold syngas for 6 kg and 500 kg biomass pyrolysis raw material are 25.5 m2 and 632.2 m2, respectively.

Artificial neural networks for bio-based chemical production or biorefining: A review

Machine learning through artificial neural networks have emerged as vital tools to predict chemical behavior for many of the most recognized biomass valorization processes relevant to biorefineries for the purpose of optimization of desired products and reaction conditions. Until recently, these neural network methodologies have successfully been utilized in the petroleum industry where much more extensive databases are available for effective algorithm training. These systems provide compelling advantages for pattern recognition when interpreting the influence of ever-changing feedstock compositions for complex biomass conversion processes as they do not require any a prior knowledge of reaction mechanisms or thermodynamic phenomena. This has been revealed to be tremendously beneficial for real-time, dynamic control applications of biochemical processes for rapid parameter monitoring and regulation such as during fermentation or anaerobic digestion. This review aims to present and evaluate studies that have attempted to apply these neural network strategies to various aspects of biorefining and how these models address the common challenges that occur when relying on conventional mechanistic modelling approaches to estimate sophisticated, non-linear systems. Comparisons are then identified when implementing these artificial intelligence computing practices in traditional petroleum refineries where feedstock inconsistencies are not as paramount compared to biorefineries. Subsequently, the practicality of these neural networks is critically assessed and recommendations are presented on how to strengthen its applicability and predictability towards future bio-based chemical production. Mathematical models such as artificial neural networks will be an integral technology in the future bioeconomy for the realization of innovative biorefinery concepts as computational power continues to advance.

Photoelectrochemical Lignin Conversion to Chemical Building Blocks using Nanostructured Semiconductor Photoelectrodes

Molecular-based dye-sensitized photoelectrochemical cells (DSPECs) have traditionally targeted solar-driven water splitting for the conversion of solar energy into fuels in aqueous media. Here we describe a novel approach to develop the DSPEC by combining hydrogen atom transfer catalysis (HAT) with nanostructured semiconductors and photocatalysts for biomass and solar energy conversion. This work reports the application of the DSPEC specifically designed to carry out photocatalytic oxidation of benzylic alcohol moieties at the photoanode (mesoporous TiO2 nanoparticles electrode) followed by reductive cleavage of the oxidized functional groups at the photocathode (macro-mesoporous NiO nanoparticles electrode) in non-aqueous media. Current studies targeting the development of photocatalysts via HAT process for biomass conversion especially lignin conversion will be described, with the novel finding that a dye-sensitized photoelectrochemical cell utilizes a solar-driven catalytic conversion of woody biomass into value-added fuels and chemicals under aerobic mild conditions.

Pyrolysis kinetic parameters investigation of single and tri-component biomass: Models fitting via comparative model-free methods

Kinetic parameters of pyrolysis reaction were important data for simulations of thermal conversion processes of biomass. This study aimed to develop a proper kinetics investigation method for the pyrolysis reaction. Here, a quasi-single reaction of pyrolysis was assumed to simplify the reactions. The model comparison among three favorite model-free methods including Ozawa-Flynn-Wall, Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose and Friedman methods, was considered. From TGA results of three biomasses, i.e., corn cob, Napier grass, and sugarcane top and leaves, they indicated that using parameters values via Friedman method in a conversion range of 0.1–0.6 could give conversion curves mostly in good agreement with experimental results when deriving them in a polynomial order of 2 (quadratic) regression model and using a reaction order of 3. Another purpose of the study was to investigate effect of mixing different biomasses on kinetics of pyrolysis reaction by plotting the parameters in a ternary diagram of tri-component biomass which was mixture of the herein biomasses. The diagram indicated that mixtures with more high-hemicellulose biomass (like corn cob) would show less activation energy in a temperature range of 220–315 °C. While mixtures with more high-cellulose biomass (like sugarcane top and leaves) would show less activation energy in a temperature range of 315–400 °C.

Nitrogen Gas Adsorption Filter (NgAF) to enhance producer gas quality

Biomass gasification is a thermochemical conversion process of solid biomass into a gaseous fuel called producer gas that can be used to generate power and electricity. The producer gas consists of around 47% of Nitrogen (N2), 24% Carbon Monoxide (CO), 16% Carbon Dioxide (CO2), 12% Hydrogen (H2), and 1% Methane (CH4). However, Nitrogen (N2) content in the producer gas reduces its heating values as N2 acts as a diluent because of the low calorific value (LCV) of gas. This study aims to design a Nitrogen gas filter for capturing nitrogen gas from producer gas to increase the heating value of producer gas as fuel in combustion. The method to increase the heating value of producer gas will increase the number of combustible gases or reduce the composition of non-combustible gases in producer gas. The use of material name zeolite with its microporous structures able to adsorb nitrogen molecules and act as catalysts to chemical reactions. Zeolites 5A have a small pore highly efficient to adsorb nitrogen gas because pore diameter is relatively similar to the size of nitrogen molecules. The quality of the producer gas depends on the design and operating parameters of the zeolite catalyst. Nitrogen Gas Adsorption Filter is a new method that has to be designed to improve the previous producer gas quality. Nitrogen Gas Adsorption Filter consists of a cylindrical shape body packed with crushed zeolites 5A. When this method of adsorption process is applied, the heating value of the producer gas is increased by observing the quantity of blue flame colour produced by NgAF.