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Search Results (293)

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Keywords = torrefaction

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21 pages, 1985 KB  
Article
Bio-Solid Fuel from Wheat Straw via Microwave Torrefaction: Process Optimization and Environmental Assessment
by Yunji Pei, Zimo Liang, Xuexue Chen, Xinran Wang, Wenlin Zhou, Weiyu Lu and Li Jiang
Processes 2025, 13(10), 3302; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13103302 - 15 Oct 2025
Abstract
There is a need to address the limitations of wheat straw (WS) as a raw biomass fuel, promote its valorisation into a high-quality renewable solid fuel, and enable this fuel to replace fossil fuels in applications such as power plants and industrial boilers. [...] Read more.
There is a need to address the limitations of wheat straw (WS) as a raw biomass fuel, promote its valorisation into a high-quality renewable solid fuel, and enable this fuel to replace fossil fuels in applications such as power plants and industrial boilers. This study focused on optimizing microwave torrefaction parameters to enhance key fuel properties. Optimal conditions were determined via the Box–Behnken design (BBD) within Response Surface Methodology (RSM) as 422.32 W of microwave power, 14.95 min of irradiation time, and a 15 g microwave absorber, resulting in a 69.12% mass yield, an 18.44 MJ/kg higher heating value (HHV) surpassing lignite at 16.76 MJ/kg, and a 25.50% Energy-Mass Co-efficiency Index (EMCI). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis/derivative thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTG) were conducted to gain insights about chemical composition and thermal stability variations due to torrefaction. LCA showed that electricity produced from 1 ton of torrefied WS reduces CO2 emissions by 259.26 kg CO2eq compared to electricity generated from bituminous coal. From an economic perspective, the usage of torrefied WS for power generation lead to a net profit of CNY 435.19/ton. This scalable technology, by valorising agricultural waste for fuel production, delivers dual environmental and economic benefits, laying the groundwork for industrial deployment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biofuels Production Processes)
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16 pages, 3187 KB  
Article
Assessment of the Influence of Temperature and Exothermic Effects During Torrefaction on the Properties of Agricultural Waste
by Rafail Isemin, Fouzi Tabet, Aleksandr Shevchenko, Alexander Mikhalev, Sergey Kuzmin, Mulissa Jida Midekssa, Oleg Milovanov, Dmitry Klimov, Kirill Milovanov, Yuliya Faleeva and Vladimir Lavrenov
Processes 2025, 13(10), 3294; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13103294 - 15 Oct 2025
Abstract
Raw biomass presents challenges for energy use due to its high moisture content, low bulk density, and susceptibility to biological degradation, which hinder storage, transport, and utilization. An experimental setup was developed to investigate exothermic behavior during torrefaction of agricultural and food industry [...] Read more.
Raw biomass presents challenges for energy use due to its high moisture content, low bulk density, and susceptibility to biological degradation, which hinder storage, transport, and utilization. An experimental setup was developed to investigate exothermic behavior during torrefaction of agricultural and food industry wastes. Exothermic reactions were observed between 190 °C and 450 °C, with more prominent effects in corn waste, sugarcane bagasse, and straw compared to sunflower husks, palm residues, and coffee skin. A series of tests performed on a torrefaction reactor with a core-type wall heating system showed that the heat generated by exothermic reactions makes it possible to reduce the torrefaction time by a factor of 1.5 (from 120 to 80 min) to obtain biochar of the required quality, with only a slight process temperature increase (15%, from 200 to 230 °C). These findings offer practical pathways for transforming waste into valuable biochar, fostering environmental resilience and socio-economic benefits in communities reliant on biomass resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Solid Waste Treatment and Design (2nd Edition))
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23 pages, 2980 KB  
Article
Steam-Assisted Semi-Carbonization Pretreatment of Corn Stalks: Effects on Physicochemical Properties for Enhanced Biomass Utilization
by Shiyan Gu, Qi Li, Wei Kou, Zhaonan Sun, Xiaoxia Li, Yitong Wang, Haiqiao Zhao and Peng Gao
Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9091; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209091 (registering DOI) - 14 Oct 2025
Abstract
The inefficient disposal of corn stover (CS) and the accumulation of magnesite tailings (MMTs) pose dual environmental threats. Although biomass gasification can utilize CS, its inherent drawbacks result in syngas with low heating value and high tar content. Torrefaction pretreatment can effectively improve [...] Read more.
The inefficient disposal of corn stover (CS) and the accumulation of magnesite tailings (MMTs) pose dual environmental threats. Although biomass gasification can utilize CS, its inherent drawbacks result in syngas with low heating value and high tar content. Torrefaction pretreatment can effectively improve biomass properties, and the use of steam as a reaction medium can further optimize the product’s pore structure. This study proposes a steam-assisted torrefaction pretreatment to address the inefficient utilization of CS and the disposal challenges of MMTs. The experimental results demonstrated that torrefaction at 300 °C with 30% water content for 60 min significantly improved the raw material’s properties. The optimized CSBC exhibited a well-developed pore structure and achieved a phenol removal rate of 63.4%. The addition of MMTs further enhanced the pretreatment effect, increasing the removal rate to 75.5% and confirming the superiority of the CSBC–magnesite composite system. The steam atmosphere improved phenol adsorption by regulating pore structures and surface functional groups, offering a feasible approach for utilizing solid waste resources and developing a new in situ tar control strategy. Full article
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15 pages, 2753 KB  
Article
Investigating Sodium Percarbonate for Upgrading Torrefied Spent Coffee Grounds as Alternative Solid Biofuel by Taguchi Optimization
by Wei-Hsin Chen, Kuan-Ting Lee, Ji-Nien Sung, Nai-Yun Hu and Yun-Sen Xu
Energies 2025, 18(20), 5384; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18205384 - 13 Oct 2025
Viewed by 206
Abstract
Producing solid biofuels with high calorific value and high storage stability under limited energy consumption has become a crucial focus in the global energy field. Low temperature torrefaction below 300 °C is a common method for producing solid biofuels. However, this approach limits [...] Read more.
Producing solid biofuels with high calorific value and high storage stability under limited energy consumption has become a crucial focus in the global energy field. Low temperature torrefaction below 300 °C is a common method for producing solid biofuels. However, this approach limits the carbon content and higher heating value (HHV) of the resulting biochar. Sodium percarbonate is a solid oxidant that can assist in the pyrolysis of organic molecules during the torrefaction to increase carbon content of biochar. Incorporating sodium percarbonate as a strategic additive presents a viable means to address the constraints associated with the torrefaction technologies. This study blended sodium percarbonate with spent coffee grounds (SCGs) to prepare torrefied SCG solid biofuels with high calorific value and high carbon content. Based on the Taguchi method with L9 orthogonal arrays, torrefaction temperature is identified as the most influential factor affecting higher heating value (HHV). Results from FTIR, water activity, hygroscopicity, and mold observation confirmed that torrefied SCGs blended with 0.5 wt% sodium percarbonate (0.5TSSCG) exhibited good storage stability. They were not prone to mold growth under ambient temperature and pressure. 0.5TSSCG with a carbon content of 61.88 wt% exhibited a maximum HHV of 29.42 MJ∙kg−1. These findings indicate that sodium percarbonate contributes to increasing the carbon content and HHV of torrefied SCGs, enabling partial replacement of traditional coal consumption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermal Decomposition of Biomass and Waste)
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16 pages, 1993 KB  
Article
Determination of the Pyrolytic Characteristics of Various Biomass Pellets
by Sefai Bilgin, Hasan Yılmaz, Mehmet Topakcı, Gürkan Alp Kağan Gürdil, Murad Çanakcı and Davut Karayel
Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9003; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209003 (registering DOI) - 11 Oct 2025
Viewed by 192
Abstract
Biomass pellets are widely used for combustion but can also serve as sustainable feedstocks for pyrolysis. This study examined wood (WP), palm-pruning (PP), reed (RD), and daphne (DP) pellets. We present a compact framework linking composition (proximate/ultimate and lignocellulosic fractions) with TG/DTG, FTIR, [...] Read more.
Biomass pellets are widely used for combustion but can also serve as sustainable feedstocks for pyrolysis. This study examined wood (WP), palm-pruning (PP), reed (RD), and daphne (DP) pellets. We present a compact framework linking composition (proximate/ultimate and lignocellulosic fractions) with TG/DTG, FTIR, TGA-derived indices (CPI, Ddev, Rw), Tpmax and Rav to predict product selectivity and temperature ranges. TG/DTG showed the following sequence: hemicellulose (≈200–315 °C) first, cellulose (≈315–400 °C) with a sharp maximum, and lignin ≈200–600 °C. Low-ash WP and DP had sharper, higher peaks, favoring concentrated devolatilization and condensables. Mineral-rich PP and RD began earlier and showed depressed peaks from AAEM catalysis, shifting toward gases and ash-richer chars. Composition shaped these patterns: higher cellulose increased Rav and CPI; links to Tpmax were moderated by ash. Lignin strengthened a high-T shoulder, while hemicellulose promoted early deacetylation (RD’s 1730 cm−1 acetyl C=O) and release of CO2 and acids. Correlations (|r| ≥ 0.70) supported these links: VM with total (m) and second stage mass loss; cellulose with Rav and CPI (Tpmax moderated by ash); lignin and O/C with Tf and last stage mass loss; ash negatively with Ti, Tpmax, and m. The obtained results guide the sustainable valorization of biomass pellets by selecting temperatures for liquids, H2/CO-rich gases or low-ash aromatic chars. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)
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18 pages, 3208 KB  
Article
Fuel Properties of Torrefied Pellets from Maize Residues and Cocopeat Byproducts
by Sunyong Park, Seon Yeop Kim, Kwang Cheol Oh, Seok Jun Kim, Padam Prasad Paudel, Do Su Park, Kyeong Sik Kang, Sun Hwa Ryu and Dae Hyun Kim
Biomass 2025, 5(4), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass5040059 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 262
Abstract
Agricultural residues such as maize byproducts and discarded cocopeat substrates are abundant but underutilised biomass resources. Improving their fuel quality requires densification, such as pelletisation, combined with thermochemical upgrading. In this study, pellets were prepared by blending cocopeat and maize residues at weight [...] Read more.
Agricultural residues such as maize byproducts and discarded cocopeat substrates are abundant but underutilised biomass resources. Improving their fuel quality requires densification, such as pelletisation, combined with thermochemical upgrading. In this study, pellets were prepared by blending cocopeat and maize residues at weight ratios of 9:1, 7:3, and 5:5, followed by torrefaction at 220, 250, and 280 °C. Their fuel characteristics were evaluated through mass yield, elemental and proximate analyses, chemical composition, calorific value, combustion indices, and grindability. Results showed that increasing maize residue content reduced ash and fuel ratio but increased volatile matter, while cocopeat-rich pellets provided higher fixed carbon and lignin contents, improving thermal stability. Torrefaction significantly enhanced calorific value (up to 21.83 MJ/kg) and grindability, while increasing aromaticity. However, higher torrefaction severity decreased the combustibility index but improved volatile ignitability, indicating a trade-off between ignition behaviour and stable combustion. An optimal balance was observed at 250 °C, where energy yield and combustion performance were maximised. This study demonstrates the feasibility of valorising discarded cocopeat substrates, blended with maize residues, into renewable solid fuels, and provides practical guidance for optimising blending ratios and torrefaction conditions in waste-to-energy applications. Full article
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15 pages, 1691 KB  
Article
Investigation of Methylene Blue Removal from Aqueous Solutions Using Biochar Derived from Mango and Pitanga Pruning Waste
by Mariana Consiglio Kasemodel, Valéria Guimarães Silvestre Rodrigues, João Marcos Ribeiro Farah Silva, Bruna Soares Campelo Vallim and Érica Leonor Romão
Colorants 2025, 4(3), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/colorants4030028 - 19 Sep 2025
Viewed by 277
Abstract
This research investigates the adsorption potential of mango and pitanga tree pruning waste biochar produced at 300 °C and 500 °C for the uptake of Methylene Blue (MB) dye. The particle size of biochar, initial MB concentration, adsorbent mass and pH of the [...] Read more.
This research investigates the adsorption potential of mango and pitanga tree pruning waste biochar produced at 300 °C and 500 °C for the uptake of Methylene Blue (MB) dye. The particle size of biochar, initial MB concentration, adsorbent mass and pH of the solution were varied. Equilibrium data were modeled using Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin equations. Increasing the temperature of the treatment resulted in a slight increase in the efficiency and adsorption capacity of the material. Finer particles (<0.25 mm) and pH (>6) were more efficient in adsorbing MB. Both materials presented similar modeled parameters for Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherm equations. The adsorption at equilibrium of MB is best described by Langmuir and Freundlich models, and the modeled maximum adsorption capacity values are 20.53 ± 5.47 mg g−1 for BTP-300 and 23.40 ± 6.41 mg g−1 for BTP-500, proving the biochar’s efficiency in the adsorption of MB and that the temperature of the thermochemical process did not affect qm. Full article
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15 pages, 1388 KB  
Article
The Effect of Torrefaction on the Properties of Spruce (Picea abies) and Sycamore (Acer platanoides) Wood
by Cosmin Spirchez and Aurel Lunguleasa
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(18), 10054; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151810054 - 15 Sep 2025
Viewed by 411
Abstract
The recent increase in demand for natural wood has led to an increase in the study of various wood treatments to expand its applications. In this regard, the torrefaction of natural wood has been used to complement classic treatments, reducing the wood’s affinity [...] Read more.
The recent increase in demand for natural wood has led to an increase in the study of various wood treatments to expand its applications. In this regard, the torrefaction of natural wood has been used to complement classic treatments, reducing the wood’s affinity for water and increasing its durability while maintaining or only slightly worsening its physical and mechanical properties. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of spruce and mountain maple wood torrefied at temperatures of 180–200 °C for 1–3 h and to compare them with those of non-torrefied wood of the same species. The results showed that torrefied wood has better properties in terms of water affinity and has quite good properties in terms of density and the analyzed mechanical properties such as compressive strength, tensile strength parallel to the wood grain, static bending strength, and Brinell hardness. The general results of this paper show that the torrefied samples of the two species have better properties than non-torrefied samples, thus broadening their applications. Full article
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16 pages, 1965 KB  
Article
Torrefaction of Hazelnut Shells: The Effects of Temperature and Retention Time on Energy Yield and Fuel Characteristics
by Gökhan Devekıran and Hasan Sarptaş
Energies 2025, 18(17), 4710; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18174710 - 4 Sep 2025
Viewed by 909
Abstract
Torrefaction is a key technology for upgrading biomass, which typically has high moisture content and low calorific value, into a high-quality solid biofuel. However, its effectiveness is highly dependent on the specific feedstock and operating parameters. This study investigates the torrefaction of hazelnut [...] Read more.
Torrefaction is a key technology for upgrading biomass, which typically has high moisture content and low calorific value, into a high-quality solid biofuel. However, its effectiveness is highly dependent on the specific feedstock and operating parameters. This study investigates the torrefaction of hazelnut shell, an abundant agricultural residue in Türkiye, to examine the effects of process temperature and retention time on the torrefaction process and to determine better process conditions. Lab-scale experiments were conducted at temperatures of 260 °C, 280 °C, and 300 °C and retention times of 30 and 60 min. At the most severe condition of 300 °C for 60 min, the mass yield decreased to 59.44%, while 78.38% of the feedstock’s original energy was successfully retained in the final torrefied biomass. The Energy Densification Ratio (EDR), another significant indicator for quantifying energy concentration, consistently increased with process severity as low-energy volatile compounds were removed. A maximum EDR of 1.32 was achieved at 300 °C and 60 min. These results demonstrate that torrefaction can convert hazelnut shells into a carbon-rich, energy-dense biofuel suitable for high-energy applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A4: Bio-Energy)
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19 pages, 3409 KB  
Article
The Torrefaction of Agricultural and Industrial Residues: Thermogravimetric Analysis, Characterization of the Products and TG-FTIR Analysis of the Gas Phase
by Danijela Urbancl, Deniz Agačević, Eva Gradišnik, Anja Šket, Nina Štajnfelzer, Darko Goričanec and Aleksandra Petrovič
Energies 2025, 18(17), 4648; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18174648 - 1 Sep 2025
Viewed by 578
Abstract
Four biomass residues–rosemary pomace, rosemary cake, grape seed and apple pomace–were torrefied at 250, 350 and 450 °C, and the physical, chemical and structural changes were characterized. The mass and energy yield decreased with increasing torrefaction temperature; the lowest mass (~10.4%) and energy [...] Read more.
Four biomass residues–rosemary pomace, rosemary cake, grape seed and apple pomace–were torrefied at 250, 350 and 450 °C, and the physical, chemical and structural changes were characterized. The mass and energy yield decreased with increasing torrefaction temperature; the lowest mass (~10.4%) and energy yield (~10.6%) were observed for rosemary cake torrefied at 450 °C. The HHV increased the most for all feedstocks at 350 °C, with rosemary cake reaching a peak value of 36.4 MJ/kg at 350 °C. Ash content increased with temperature due to organic mass loss, while volatiles decreased and fixed carbon increased in most samples. The FTIR spectra showed the progressive loss of hydroxyl, carbonyl and C–O functionalities and the appearance of aromatic C=C bonds, indicating the formation of the biochar. TGA and DTG analyses revealed that the torrefied samples exhibited higher initial and maximum temperatures for decomposition, confirming improved thermal stability. The TGA-FTIR analyses of gas emissions during pyrolysis and combustion showed that the emissions of CO2, CH4, NOx and SO2 decreased with increasing degree of torrefaction. Overall, 350 °C was optimal to maximize energy density. The results show that agro-industrial residues can be effectively converted into sustainable biofuels, which offer the dual benefit of reducing waste disposal problems and providing a renewable alternative. In practice, such residues could be used for decentralized power generation in rural areas, co-combustion in existing power plants, or as feedstock for advanced bioenergy systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section B: Energy and Environment)
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28 pages, 2204 KB  
Review
Torrefaction of Lignocellulosic Biomass: A Pathway to Renewable Energy, Circular Economy, and Sustainable Agriculture
by Salini Chandrasekharan Nair, Vineetha John, Renu Geetha Bai and Timo Kikas
Sustainability 2025, 17(17), 7738; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17177738 - 28 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1415
Abstract
Torrefaction, a mild thermochemical pretreatment process, is widely acknowledged as an effective strategy for enhancing the energy potential of lignocellulosic biomass. This review systematically evaluates the technological, environmental, and economic dimensions of lignocellulosic biomass torrefaction with the objective of clarifying its critical role [...] Read more.
Torrefaction, a mild thermochemical pretreatment process, is widely acknowledged as an effective strategy for enhancing the energy potential of lignocellulosic biomass. This review systematically evaluates the technological, environmental, and economic dimensions of lignocellulosic biomass torrefaction with the objective of clarifying its critical role in sustainable energy production and circular economy frameworks. Drawing from recent literature, the review covers process fundamentals, feedstock characteristics and operational parameters—typically 200–300 °C, heating rates below 50 °C per minute, ~1 h residence time, and oxygen-deficient conditions. The impacts of torrefaction on fuel properties, such as increased energy density, improved grindability and pelletability, enhanced storage stability, and reduced microbial degradation are critically assessed along with its contribution to waste valorization and renewable energy conversion. Particular emphasis is placed on the application of torrefied biomass (biochar) in sustainable agriculture, where it can enhance nutrient retention, improve soil quality and promote long-term carbon sequestration. This review identifies an unresolved research gap in aligning large-scale techno-economic feasibility with environmental impacts, specifically concerning the high process energy requirements, emission mitigation and regulatory integration. Process optimization, reactor design and supportive policy frameworks are identified as key strategies that could significantly improve the economic viability and sustainability outcomes. Overall, torrefaction demonstrates substantial potential as a scalable pathway for converting waste agricultural and forest residues into carbon-neutral biofuels. By effectively linking biomass waste valorization with renewable energy production and sustainable agricultural practices, this review offers a practical route to reducing environmental impacts while supporting the broader objectives of the global circular economy. Full article
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30 pages, 13266 KB  
Article
Emission of Total Volatile Organic Compounds from the Torrefaction Process: Meadow Hay, Rye, and Oat Straw as Renewable Fuels
by Justyna Czerwinska, Szymon Szufa, Hilal Unyay and Grzegorz Wielgosinski
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4154; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154154 - 5 Aug 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 491
Abstract
This study aims to quantify total VOC emissions and evaluate how torrefaction alters the heat of combustion of three agricultural residues. The work examines the amount of VOC emissions during the torrefaction process at various temperatures and investigates the changes in the heat [...] Read more.
This study aims to quantify total VOC emissions and evaluate how torrefaction alters the heat of combustion of three agricultural residues. The work examines the amount of VOC emissions during the torrefaction process at various temperatures and investigates the changes in the heat of combustion of agri-biomass resulting from the torrefaction process. The process was carried out at the following temperatures: 225, 250, 275, and 300 °C. Total VOC emission factors were determined. The reaction kinetics analysis revealed that meadow hay exhibited the most stable thermal behavior with the lowest activation energy. At the same time, rye straw demonstrated higher thermal resistance and complex multi-step degradation characteristics. The authors analyze three types of agricultural biomass: meadow hay, rye straw, and oat straw. The research was divided into five stages: determination of moisture content in the sample, determination of ash content, thermogravimetric analysis, measurement of total VOC emissions from the biomass torrefaction process, and determination of the heat of combustion of the obtained torrefied biomass. Based on the research, it was found that torrefaction of biomass causes the emission of torgas containing VOC in the amount of 2–10 mg/g of torrefied biomass, which can be used energetically, e.g., to support the torrefaction process, and the torrefied biomass shows a higher value of the heat of combustion. Unlike prior studies focused on single feedstocks or limited temperature ranges, this work systematically compares three major crop residues across four torrefaction temperatures and directly couples VOC quantifications. Full article
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14 pages, 838 KB  
Article
Impact of Water Vapor on the Predictive Modeling of Full-Scale Indirectly Heated Biomass Torrefaction System Throughput Capacity
by Chaitanya Bhatraju, Matthew Russell and Martijn Dekker
Energies 2025, 18(15), 3978; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18153978 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 399
Abstract
Biomass torrefaction must be self-sustaining and continuous to be commercially viable, eliminating dependence on additional fuels while achieving industrial-scale production. This study presents a predictive model of a full-scale continuous biomass torrefaction process that explicitly incorporates the radiation absorption properties of torrefaction gas, [...] Read more.
Biomass torrefaction must be self-sustaining and continuous to be commercially viable, eliminating dependence on additional fuels while achieving industrial-scale production. This study presents a predictive model of a full-scale continuous biomass torrefaction process that explicitly incorporates the radiation absorption properties of torrefaction gas, with a focus on water vapor. Previous research, primarily based on lab-scale batch processes, has not adequately addressed scale-up challenges or the dynamic evolution of torrefaction gas. Industrial insights from Perpetual Next confirm that water vapor significantly impacts reactor performance by absorbing heat and reducing radiative flux to the biomass. Simulations show that neglecting water vapor absorption in reactor design can lead to throughput deviations of 10–20%, affecting process stability and efficiency. Industrial-scale validation demonstrates that the model accurately predicts this effect, ensuring realistic energy demand and throughput expectations. By explicitly incorporating water vapor absorption into the radiation balance, the model provides a validated framework for optimizing reactor design and process scale-up. It demonstrates that failing to consider this effect can lead to operational instability and deviations from the intended torrefaction severity, ultimately affecting industrial-scale performance and self-sustaining operation. Full article
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31 pages, 2773 KB  
Review
Actualized Scope of Forestry Biomass Valorization in Chile: Fostering the Bioeconomy
by Cecilia Fuentalba, Victor Ferrer, Luis E. Arteaga-Perez, Jorge Santos, Nacarid Delgado, Yannay Casas-Ledón, Gastón Bravo-Arrepol, Miguel Pereira, Andrea Andrade, Danilo Escobar-Avello and Gustavo Cabrera-Barjas
Forests 2025, 16(8), 1208; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081208 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1179
Abstract
Chile is among the leading global exporters of pulp and paper, supported by extensive plantations of Pinus radiata and Eucalyptus spp. This review synthesizes recent progress in the valorization of forestry biomass in Chile, including both established practices and emerging bio-based applications. It [...] Read more.
Chile is among the leading global exporters of pulp and paper, supported by extensive plantations of Pinus radiata and Eucalyptus spp. This review synthesizes recent progress in the valorization of forestry biomass in Chile, including both established practices and emerging bio-based applications. It highlights advances in lignin utilization, nanocellulose production, hemicellulose processing, and tannin extraction, as well as developments in thermochemical conversion technologies, including torrefaction, pyrolysis, and gasification. Special attention is given to non-timber forest products and essential oils due to their potential bioactivity. Sustainability perspectives, including Life Cycle Assessments, national policy instruments such as the Circular Economy Roadmap and Extended Producer Responsibility (REP) Law, are integrated to provide context. Barriers to technology transfer and industrial implementation are also discussed. This work contributes to understanding how forestry biomass can support Chile’s transition toward a circular bioeconomy. Full article
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17 pages, 2649 KB  
Article
Effect of Low-Temperature Preheating on the Physicochemical Properties and Energy Quality of Pine Sawdust
by Tingzhou Lei, Yang Mei, Yuanna Li, Yunbo Wang, Suyang Liu and Yantao Yang
Energies 2025, 18(14), 3875; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18143875 - 21 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 444
Abstract
The advantages of torrefaction preheating, including the production of a hydrophobic solid product, improved particle size distribution, enhanced fuel properties with fewer environmental issues, decreased moisture content, and reduced volatile content. In order to meet the technical requirements of biomass oriented value-added and [...] Read more.
The advantages of torrefaction preheating, including the production of a hydrophobic solid product, improved particle size distribution, enhanced fuel properties with fewer environmental issues, decreased moisture content, and reduced volatile content. In order to meet the technical requirements of biomass oriented value-added and energy saving and emission reduction, pine sawdust (PS) was taken as the research object, and the physicochemical properties of the PS samples preheated at a low temperature were analyzed by synchronous thermal analysis (TG-DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and organic element analyzer (EA). The effect of preheating at a lower temperature on the physicochemical properties of PS was discussed. The results showed that, under the preheating condition of 200 °C, compared with PS, the water content of PS-200 decreased by 3.23%, the volatile content decreased by 3.69%, the fixed carbon increased by 6.81%, the calorific value increased by 6.90%, the equilibrium water content decreases from 7.06% to 4.46%, and the hydrophobicity increases. This research, based on the improvement of the quality of agricultural and forestry waste and the promotion of the strategy of converting waste into energy, has contributed to the advancement of sustainable energy production. Full article
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