BioMatNet Item: JOULE JOR3-CT96-0099 - A novel approach for the integration of biomass pyrolytic conversion processes in existing markets of liquid fuels and chemicals

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JOULE JOR3-CT96-0099
A novel approach for the integration of biomass pyrolytic conversion processes in existing markets of liquid fuels and chemicals

Contacts

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JOULE/THERMIE Programme : Solid Biofuels : Straw : Thermochemical Conversion : Wood (Lignocellulose)

	Type of Project	Shared Cost
	Contract No	JOR3-CT96-0099
	EC Contribution	548,500 ECU
	Start Date	17/09/1996
	Duration	24 Months

A novel approach for the integration of biomass pyrolytic conversion processes in existing markets of liquid fuels and chemicals

Objectives

The proposed integrated approach has the following objectives:

pyrolysis of various feedstocks. e.g. straw, Arundo donax, hardwood (Eucalyptus species) and softwood (pine species)
evaluation of characteristics of qualified feedstocks (ultimate and proximate analysis and calorific value)
optimisation of flash pyrolysis and combustion processes to increase liquid yields and improve liquids quality
close-coupling of existing biomass conversion (CFB reactor), post-treatment (product stream de-dusting and pyrolysis vapour quenching) and upgrading (plasma reactor) processes
derivation of scale-up rules for flash pyrolysis plants
setting-up of requirements for risk analysis of integrated advanced pyrolysis systems including detailed study on techno-economics for either heat or power applications
proposals for the removal of barriers to introduce pyrolysis liquids to niche markets, e.g. refinery infrastructure

Technical Approach

In the framework of previous R&D programmes, a novel reactor configuration, suitable for the maximisation of the liquid products derived from biomass flash pyrolysis has been constructed and tested. It is a circulating fluidised bed (CFB) reactor, which is fuelled by partial combustion of the by-products of the pyrolytic process. This is achieved by recirculation of the by-product char to the lower portion of the CFB reactor, where it is combusted, providing the energy requirements to carry out the biomass de-volatilisation process. Results have shown total liquid yields of 55-60% wt, based on moist, ash-free (maf) feedstock. However, essential process modifications (e.g. hot gas filtration and liquid recovery based on direct quench of pyrolysis vapours) are required to improve quality and further increase liquid yields. Moreover, the liquid products have to be analysed and upgrading techniques (such as hydrotreatment of zeolite cracking) thoroughly investigated prior to applying the process at a larger scale. A scale-up procedure (for plants up to 1 tonne maf biomass/h) should furthermore be based on robust results derived by large-scale hydrodynamics study.

Finally, market applications of the overall process require a detailed risk analysis as well as an assessment of the necessary procedures to accelerate pyrolysis products penetration in the existing infrastructure of liquid fuels and chemicals.

Expected Results

The outputs of the project include:

a breakthrough in pyrolysis liquid upgrading technology
derivation of scale-up rules to minimise risks associated to changing fluid dynamics in larger systems
development of an integrated scheme for biomass conversion
techno-economic assessment of the concept
exploitation of low-value resources (forest and agricultural residues) by converting them to an easily handled, higher energy density product
exploration of the possibilities for further utilisation of pyrolysis products in niche markets

Contacts

Coordinator

Spyros KYRITSIS / Agricultural University of Athens Agricultural Engineering Dept / GREECE

Participant