Improving the Solid Fuel Properties of Non-Lignocellulose and Lignocellulose Materials through Torrefaction

Materials

Nwokolo Nwabunwanne¹  Mukumba Patrick¹  Tonga Vuyokazi¹  Adeniji Olagoke²  Okoh Anthony²  Ojemaye Mike² 

[1] Department of Physics, University of Fort Hare, P/Bag X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa;SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Center, University of Fort Hare, P/Bag X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa;

关键词: biomass;    torrefaction;    sewage sludge;    moisture content;    sugarcane bagasse;    temperature;   

DOI  :  10.3390/ma14082072

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Biomass torrefaction is a thermal pre-treatment technique that improves solid fuel properties in relation to its efficient utilization for energy generation. In this study, the torrefaction performance of sewage sludge, a non-lignocellulose biomass and sugarcane bagasse, a lignocellulose biomass were investigated in an electric muffle furnace. The influence of torrefaction temperature on the physiochemical properties of the produced biomaterial were examined. Characterization of the raw and torrefied biomass material were studied using thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis and scanning electron microscopy. From the result obtained, it was evident that an increase in torrefaction temperature up to 350 °C caused a 33.89% and 45.94% decrease in volatile matter content of sewage sludge and sugarcane bagasse, respectively. At a higher temperature of 350 °C, the peak corresponding to OH stretching of hydroxyl group decreased in intensity for both biomasses, showing a decomposition of the hydroxyl group as a result of torrefaction. This enriched the lignin content of the torrefied samples, thus making these solid fuels good feedstock for energy production.

【 授权许可】

Unknown