This article is very informative.This paper explains about that the storage stabilities of fuel grade Camelina, sunflower and rapeseed methyl esters were evaluated in airtight and open containers.
Commercial amounts (200 litres) of the methyl esters were stored in airtight drums and sampled regularly, and the effects of air exposure were evaluated from sixteen days laboratory-scale accelerated storage tests at 65oC.
None of the methyl esters in airtight drums deteriorated during eighteen months of storage; composition, viscosity and free fatty acid levels remained unchanged. The accelerated storage test in open containers, however, indicated that exposure to air can cause rapid oxidation of each of the three methyl esters.
However, oxidation can be delayed by the presence of tocopherols (natural antioxidants) in the methyl ester, and it can be further delayed by the presence of an unidentified carotenoid. The exceptional stability of rapeseed methyl ester seems to be due to a combination of relatively high levels of (-tocopherol and the unidentified carotenoid.
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Thursday, July 16, 2009
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Biodiesel Yields of Various Oilseeds
Here is an article on "Biodiesel Benefits for Cattle Producers" by Greg Lardy, Ph.D., prepared for the Western Organization of Resource Councils.He has given the list of projeted oil yields and biodiesel yields from various oilseeds.
1 all oil is extracted from the meal. 100 pounds of oil plus 10 pounds of methanol yields 100 pounds of biodiesel and 10 pounds of crude glycerol.
2 Assuming 7.3 pounds per gallon
full article here
| Oilseed | Fat content, % | Pounds of Oil per Ton | Pounds of Biodiesel 1 | Gallons of Biodiesel2 |
| Camelina | 40.4 | 808 | 808 | 110.7 |
| Canola | 40.5 | 810 | 810 | 111 |
| Mustard | 34.4 | 688 | 688 | 94.2 |
| Safflower | 32 | 640 | 640 | 87.7 |
| Sunflower | 41.9 | 838 | 838 | 114.8 |
| Soybeans | 19.2 | 384 | 384 | 52.6 |
1 all oil is extracted from the meal. 100 pounds of oil plus 10 pounds of methanol yields 100 pounds of biodiesel and 10 pounds of crude glycerol.
2 Assuming 7.3 pounds per gallon
full article here
Camelina - Fatty acids and tocopherol content.
Here is an interesting article about the Oil samples obtained from the seed of Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz were analyzed for the content of fatty acids and tocopherols.
The evaluation of the results in this report includes three promising cultivars from a collection of seven summer cultivars and varieties grown in field trials 1997 at five remote localities representing Central Europe, Northern Europe and Scandinavia (7–17° E, 48–60° N).
At all experimental sites identical cultivation practices with small modifications were used. The analyses reconfirmed the known specific profile of fatty acids in camelina oil.
The average content of oleic acid (18:1n−9) was 14.87 ±0.17%, linoleic acid (18:2n−6) 15.23 ±0.17%, α-linolenic acid (18:3n−3) 36.82 ±0.27%, gondoic acid (20:1n−9) 15.48 ±0.16% and of erucic acid (22:1n−9) 2.83 ±0.07%.
The analyses for tocopherols (T) revealed the average content of α-T at 28.07 ±2.58 ppm, γ-T 742 ±14.80 ppm, δ-T 20.47 ±0.92 ppm and of plastochromanol (P-8) 14.94 ±1.05 ppm. Neither β-T nor tocotrienols were detectable. The average content of total tocopherols was 806±15.70 ppm.
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The evaluation of the results in this report includes three promising cultivars from a collection of seven summer cultivars and varieties grown in field trials 1997 at five remote localities representing Central Europe, Northern Europe and Scandinavia (7–17° E, 48–60° N).
At all experimental sites identical cultivation practices with small modifications were used. The analyses reconfirmed the known specific profile of fatty acids in camelina oil.
The average content of oleic acid (18:1n−9) was 14.87 ±0.17%, linoleic acid (18:2n−6) 15.23 ±0.17%, α-linolenic acid (18:3n−3) 36.82 ±0.27%, gondoic acid (20:1n−9) 15.48 ±0.16% and of erucic acid (22:1n−9) 2.83 ±0.07%.
The analyses for tocopherols (T) revealed the average content of α-T at 28.07 ±2.58 ppm, γ-T 742 ±14.80 ppm, δ-T 20.47 ±0.92 ppm and of plastochromanol (P-8) 14.94 ±1.05 ppm. Neither β-T nor tocotrienols were detectable. The average content of total tocopherols was 806±15.70 ppm.
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Unique Properties of Camelina Oil
Camelina oil has good potential for food and industrial use. The oil contains about 64 percent polyunsaturated, 30 percent monounsaturated, and 6 percent saturated fatty acids. Importantly, camelina oil is very high in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid which is essential in human and animal diets and has important implications for human health. The oil also contains high levels of gamma-tocopherol (vitamin E) which confers a reasonable shelf life without the need for special storage conditions. The unique properties of camelina oil could lead to development of a wide array of high value markets for the oil and its components in foods, feeds, cosmetics and industrial products (biolubricants). Some ideas currently being researched include:
- Nutritional: Using camelina oil to increase the nutritional value of a range of baked foods such as bread, and spreads including peanut butter.
- Health: Potential health benefits of omega-3 from camelina oil are being evaluated in a breast cancer risk study for overweight or obese postmenopausal women.
- Biodiesel: Camelina biodiesel has been produced and evaluated by commercial biodiesel manufacturers including Core IV, Wyoming Biodiesel, Peaks and Prairies and Great Northern Growers. Camelina biodiesel performance appears to be equal in value and indistinguishable from biodiesel produced from other oilseed crops such as soybean.
- Biolubricant: Camelina oil can be converted to a wax ester that will replace more expensive and less available Jojoba waxes in a range of industrial and cosmetic products.
- Soil and seed amendments: The gum layer that surrounds each camelina seed can be removed and utilized as a seed coating for other seeds to improve their germination in challenging environments. Camelina gum also has the potential to be used as a soil amendment to stabilize exposed soils for erosion control as in road construction.
Miscanthus+ thermophillic bacteria = High hydrogen yield.
Given below is the summary of the research of efforts of efficient hydrogen production from the lignocellulosic energy crop Miscanthus by the extreme thermophilic bacteria.
Efficient hydrogen production in combination with simultaneous and complete utilization of all saccharides has been obtained during the growth of thermophilic bacteria on
hydrolysate of the lignocellulosic feedstock Miscanthus. The use of thermophilic bacteria will therefore significantly contribute to the energy efficiency of a bioprocess for hydrogen production from biomass.
For those of the scientific bent - Full article.
Efficient hydrogen production in combination with simultaneous and complete utilization of all saccharides has been obtained during the growth of thermophilic bacteria on
hydrolysate of the lignocellulosic feedstock Miscanthus. The use of thermophilic bacteria will therefore significantly contribute to the energy efficiency of a bioprocess for hydrogen production from biomass.
For those of the scientific bent - Full article.
Switch-grass vs Corn
Pimentel and Tad W. Patzek, professor of civil and environmental engineering at Berkeley, conducted a detailed analysis of the energy input-yield ratios of producing ethanol from corn, switch grass and wood biomass as well as for producing biodiesel from soybean and sunflower plants. Their report is published in Natural Resources Research (Vol. 14:1, 65-76).
In terms of energy output compared with energy input for ethanol production, the study found that:
# corn requires 29 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced;
# switch grass requires 45 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced; and
# wood biomass requires 57 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced.
In terms of energy output compared with the energy input for biodiesel production, the study found that:
# soybean plants requires 27 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced, and
# sunflower plants requires 118 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced.
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In terms of energy output compared with energy input for ethanol production, the study found that:
# corn requires 29 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced;
# switch grass requires 45 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced; and
# wood biomass requires 57 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced.
In terms of energy output compared with the energy input for biodiesel production, the study found that:
# soybean plants requires 27 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced, and
# sunflower plants requires 118 percent more fossil energy than the fuel produced.
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Arunda.donax in Rajasthan.
The dry matter production, nutrient concentration and allelopathic effects of A. donax were studied in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. A. donax preferred to grow along the marginal upland areas of natural wetlands flooded temporarily during rainy season.
Its woody rhizome formed a close network in the soil at a depth of approximately 25-30 cm, while its thick tough roots penetrated at a depth of >1.0 m into the soil. It was a highly productive species.
Annual cutting after flowering improved plant growth and organic matter production. Studies on nutrient dynamics revealed slight internal cycling. A. donax stand soil markedly inhibited the growth of Typha angustata (an important obnoxious weed) seedlings, whereas its leaf and litter leachates retarded the growth of selected free floating and submerged hydrophytes. The applications of these findings in the management of freshwater ecosystems are discussed.
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Its woody rhizome formed a close network in the soil at a depth of approximately 25-30 cm, while its thick tough roots penetrated at a depth of >1.0 m into the soil. It was a highly productive species.
Annual cutting after flowering improved plant growth and organic matter production. Studies on nutrient dynamics revealed slight internal cycling. A. donax stand soil markedly inhibited the growth of Typha angustata (an important obnoxious weed) seedlings, whereas its leaf and litter leachates retarded the growth of selected free floating and submerged hydrophytes. The applications of these findings in the management of freshwater ecosystems are discussed.
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Cultivation of Perennial grasses better than Corn.
Land currently used to grow row crops would provide one source of land for perennial grass production. The primary concern associated with this conversion is that less cropland would be available for food production, leading to diminished food supplies and increased food prices (Carey 2005).
However, this competition could be mitigated if switchgrass is grown on land currently used to grow corn for ethanol. It is estimated that about 20% of harvested corn goes into ethanol production (Yates, 2008).
Based on this percentage and the amount of corn acreage grown in 2008, approximately 16.5 million acres would open up for switch grass production if corn ethanol were replaced.
However, this competition could be mitigated if switchgrass is grown on land currently used to grow corn for ethanol. It is estimated that about 20% of harvested corn goes into ethanol production (Yates, 2008).
Based on this percentage and the amount of corn acreage grown in 2008, approximately 16.5 million acres would open up for switch grass production if corn ethanol were replaced.
Biofuels will displace gasoline use in USA by 2030
Within the next 10 years, cellulosic ethanol will be an increasingly important source of fuel, given DOE’s commitment to bringing cellulosic ethanol online by 2012 and to increasing its production substantially by 2030.
Clearly challenges lie ahead in determining on what type of land switchgrass and other biomass will be grown, switchgrass would provide the most environmental benefits by displacing these acres of corn, using retired agricultural land, such as CRP, is more likely to be considered in light of corn ethanol policy.
The Department of Energy (DOE) has set the goal of making cellulosic ethanol cost-competitive by 2012, and by 2030, it aims to make biofuels displace 30% of the country’s projected gasoline use (USDOE, 2007).
Some of the primary types of feedstock being considered to meet these goals are crop residues, perennial woody crops, and perennial grasses. Perennial grasses have been a particular focus, with switchgrass receiving the most attention.
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Clearly challenges lie ahead in determining on what type of land switchgrass and other biomass will be grown, switchgrass would provide the most environmental benefits by displacing these acres of corn, using retired agricultural land, such as CRP, is more likely to be considered in light of corn ethanol policy.
The Department of Energy (DOE) has set the goal of making cellulosic ethanol cost-competitive by 2012, and by 2030, it aims to make biofuels displace 30% of the country’s projected gasoline use (USDOE, 2007).
Some of the primary types of feedstock being considered to meet these goals are crop residues, perennial woody crops, and perennial grasses. Perennial grasses have been a particular focus, with switchgrass receiving the most attention.
see more
Arunda Donax - Estimation of Dry weight
Trust me !! This is unbelievable. Please read through this abstract and you will agree with me :).
Researchers from the Department of Plant Science in California have developed an equation for estimating Arundo donax shoot dry weight from shoot length. The equation, shoot dry weight (g) = 14.254 (standard error = ±0.275) × shoot height2 (m), was as effective at explaining a high proportion of total variation in shoot dry weight (R2 = 0.90) as more complicated equations containing additional morphometric parameters.
They are tested against two independent datasets, the equation provided accurate estimates of dry weight for shoots ranging from 0.3 to 7.06 m height (dataset 1, P < 0.0001, R2 = 0.87, N = 29; dataset 2, P < 0.0001, R2 = 0.82, N = 192). The equation provides above ground biomass estimates from stem counts and heights more rapidly than harvest methods.
Researchers from the Department of Plant Science in California have developed an equation for estimating Arundo donax shoot dry weight from shoot length. The equation, shoot dry weight (g) = 14.254 (standard error = ±0.275) × shoot height2 (m), was as effective at explaining a high proportion of total variation in shoot dry weight (R2 = 0.90) as more complicated equations containing additional morphometric parameters.
They are tested against two independent datasets, the equation provided accurate estimates of dry weight for shoots ranging from 0.3 to 7.06 m height (dataset 1, P < 0.0001, R2 = 0.87, N = 29; dataset 2, P < 0.0001, R2 = 0.82, N = 192). The equation provides above ground biomass estimates from stem counts and heights more rapidly than harvest methods.
Biomass transport- Alternatives identified :-)
A wonderful article on ways to maintian the transportation cost of biomass . I was actually telling myself off for not having seen this earlier. It is indeed a lovely article.
The research studies claim that two alternatives have been explored:
a.Transport by rail
b.Transport by pipeline.
Though some truck transport will be required to move biomass from field in either of these alternative scenarios,a large portion of the total distance from source to biorefinery would be carried by rail or pipeline.One problem that arises immediately when using a carrier liquid and wood chips is the uptake of the liquid by the chips. The water content of the chips rises by 13% when water is used, and incredibly, the chips absorb upwards of 50% of their weight in oil when a hydrocarbon carrier is employed.
Even though pipelines may be more cost-effective at large distances compared to trucking, the costs of moving biomass for such long distances is still quite expensive regardless of method (on average $15 per dry tonne by pipeline for a 100km distance to nearly $40/dry tonne for 500km .
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The research studies claim that two alternatives have been explored:
a.Transport by rail
b.Transport by pipeline.
Though some truck transport will be required to move biomass from field in either of these alternative scenarios,a large portion of the total distance from source to biorefinery would be carried by rail or pipeline.One problem that arises immediately when using a carrier liquid and wood chips is the uptake of the liquid by the chips. The water content of the chips rises by 13% when water is used, and incredibly, the chips absorb upwards of 50% of their weight in oil when a hydrocarbon carrier is employed.
Even though pipelines may be more cost-effective at large distances compared to trucking, the costs of moving biomass for such long distances is still quite expensive regardless of method (on average $15 per dry tonne by pipeline for a 100km distance to nearly $40/dry tonne for 500km .
see more
Physico-Chemical Properties of Camelina sativa Oil
Researchers of Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia have done a research on "Physico-Chemical Properties, Composition and Oxidative Stability of Camelina sativa Oil".
According to them Camelina oil is a rich source of α -linolenic acid (35.2 %), only linseed oil has more (up to 60 %). Camelina oil contains 14.9 % of gondoic acid (20:1), which is absent in the most common vegetable oils and 1.6 % of erucic acid (22:1), which determines the applicability of oil for human consumption,but in the Slovene camelina oil it was well below the permitted value of 5 % and also significantly lower than the values reported by others.
Full article here
According to them Camelina oil is a rich source of α -linolenic acid (35.2 %), only linseed oil has more (up to 60 %). Camelina oil contains 14.9 % of gondoic acid (20:1), which is absent in the most common vegetable oils and 1.6 % of erucic acid (22:1), which determines the applicability of oil for human consumption,but in the Slovene camelina oil it was well below the permitted value of 5 % and also significantly lower than the values reported by others.
Full article here
Facts about Aroundo donax
An article entitled "Is Arundo Donax the answer to our power problems?" explains some of interesting facts about aroundo donax:
Arundo donax facts
ADVANTAGES: It is a fast-growing perennial (up to 12 feet and 1 inch in diameter in six months) that takes carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere, sequestering it in its roots.
DISADVANTAGES: California has spent more than $25-million trying to eradicate the reed, which uses up to 25 inches of water a year, wipes out native habitats, fuels fires and causes flooding; environmentalists are planning to fight large-scale farming of the plant in Florida.
WHAT ELSE IS IT USED FOR? Arundo donax is commercially grown for use as reeds in woodwind instruments.
Arundo donax facts
ADVANTAGES: It is a fast-growing perennial (up to 12 feet and 1 inch in diameter in six months) that takes carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere, sequestering it in its roots.
DISADVANTAGES: California has spent more than $25-million trying to eradicate the reed, which uses up to 25 inches of water a year, wipes out native habitats, fuels fires and causes flooding; environmentalists are planning to fight large-scale farming of the plant in Florida.
WHAT ELSE IS IT USED FOR? Arundo donax is commercially grown for use as reeds in woodwind instruments.
Biomass Investment Group is Trying to Convert Arundo donax to Power
A Panhandle company Biomass Investment Group Inc. of Gulf Breeze is trying to use Arundo donax to generate electricity. Wimberly, vice president of agricultural operations, is one of the key players working to create the first commercial power plant in the world to turn a giant reed into electricity.
The power plant and acreage for the crop, scientific name Arundo donax but dubbed e-grass, will be somewhere in south Florida. Its total output, 130 megawatts or enough to power about 83,000 homes, will be acquired by Progress Energy Florida, a subsidiary of North Carolina's Progress Energy.
The power plant and acreage for the crop, scientific name Arundo donax but dubbed e-grass, will be somewhere in south Florida. Its total output, 130 megawatts or enough to power about 83,000 homes, will be acquired by Progress Energy Florida, a subsidiary of North Carolina's Progress Energy.
Miscanthus is Better than Corn
This article caught my eye when I was looking for the ethanol yield of Miscanthus. Sounds interesting !!
In Khosla's simple arithmetic, with irrigation and other inputs, it would be possible to grow 20 tonnes of crops per acre and each ton of crop would yield 100 gallons of ethanol
Thus 50 million acres would generate as much as 100 billion gallons. He recommended switching over to a tall grass called miscanthus in the US, which would yield a higher profit.
However, this – when also related to land use is where Khosla's vision may not apply to developing countries, while it may make good sense in the US and Europe.
The fact is that any conversion of land to produce ethanol, particularly if it is with crops like miscanthus that require fertile soil, could only be at the cost of food and fuelwood.
Full article
In Khosla's simple arithmetic, with irrigation and other inputs, it would be possible to grow 20 tonnes of crops per acre and each ton of crop would yield 100 gallons of ethanol
Thus 50 million acres would generate as much as 100 billion gallons. He recommended switching over to a tall grass called miscanthus in the US, which would yield a higher profit.
However, this – when also related to land use is where Khosla's vision may not apply to developing countries, while it may make good sense in the US and Europe.
The fact is that any conversion of land to produce ethanol, particularly if it is with crops like miscanthus that require fertile soil, could only be at the cost of food and fuelwood.
Full article
Arundo donax Comprehensive Plant, Species Information
This comprehensive data page from NatureServe provides the following details / data on Arundo donax:
Concept reference
Conservation status
Distribution
Ecology & life history
Economic attributes
Management summary
Population/Occurrence Delineation
Population/Occurrence viability
US invasive species impact rank
More from here
Concept reference
Conservation status
Distribution
Ecology & life history
Economic attributes
Management summary
Population/Occurrence Delineation
Population/Occurrence viability
US invasive species impact rank
More from here
Arundo donax Biomass Yield and Energy Balance
Arundo donax Biomass Yield and Energy Balance; cropped in central italy as related to different management practices
Abstract
In order to evaluate the possibility of reducing energy input in giant reed (Arundo donax L.) as a perennial biomass crop, a field experiment was carried out from 1996 to 2001 in central Italy. Crop yield response to fertilisation (200-80-200 kg ha-1 N-P-K), harvest time (autumn and winter) and plant density (20,000 and 40,000 plants per ha) was evaluated. The energy balance was assessed considering the energy costs of production inputs and the energy output obtained by the transformation of the final product. The crop yield increased by +50% from the establishment period to the 2nd year of growth when it achieved the highest dry matter yield. The mature crop displayed on average annual production rates of 3 kg dry matter m-2, with maximum values obtained in fertilised plot and during winter harvest time. Fertilisation mainly enhanced dry matter yield in the initial period (+0.7 kg dry matter m-2 as years 1-6 mean value). The biomass water content was affected by harvest time, decreasing by about 10% from autumn to winter. With regard to plant density, higher dry matter yields were achieved with 20,000 plants per ha (+0.3 kg dry matter m-2 as years 1-6 mean value). The total energy input decreased from fertilised (18 GJ ha-1) to not fertilised crops (4 GJ ha-1). The higher energetic input was represented by fertilisation which involved 14 GJ ha-1 (fertilisers plus their distribution) of total energy costs. This value represents 78% of total energy inputs for fertilised crops. Giant reed biomass calorific mean value (i.e., the calorific value obtained from combustion of biomass sample in an adiabatic system) was about 17 MJ kg-1 dry matter and it was not affected by fertilisation, or by plant density or harvest time. Fertilisation enhanced crop biomass yield from 23 to 27 dry tonnes per ha (years 1-6 mean value). This 15% increase was possible with an energy consumption of 70% of the overall energy cost. Maximum energy yield output was 496 GJ ha-1, obtained with 20,000 plants per ha and fertilisation. From the establishment period to 2nd-6th year of growth the energy production efficiency (as ratio between energy output and energy input per ha) and the net energy yield (as difference between energy output and energy input per ha) increased due to the low crop dry biomass yield and the high energy costs for crop planting. The energy production efficiency and net energy yield were also affected by fertilisation and plant density. In the mature crop the energy efficiency was highest without fertilisation both with 20,000 (131 GJ ha-1) and 40,000 plants per ha (119 GJ ha-1).
Auteur(s) / Author(s)
ANGELINI L. G. (1) ; CECCARINI L. (1) ; BONARI E. (2) ;
Affiliation(s) du ou des auteurs / Author(s) Affiliation(s)
(1) Dipartimento di Agronomia e Gestione dell'Agroecosistema, Via S. Michele degli Scalzi 2, 56100 Pisa, ITALIE
(2) Scuola Superiore di Studi Universitari e di Perfezionamento S. Anna, Piazza Martiri delta Libertà, 33, 56100 Pisa, ITALIE
Revue / Journal Title
European journal of agronomy ISSN 1161-0301
Source / Source
2005, vol. 22, no4, pp. 375-389 [15 page(s) (article)] (25 ref.)
Langue / Language
Anglais
Editeur / Publisher
Elsevier Science, Amsterdam, PAYS-BAS (1992) (Revue)
INIST-CNRS, Cote INIST : 26234, 35400012537925.0020
For more details and ordering a copy of the full work
Abstract
In order to evaluate the possibility of reducing energy input in giant reed (Arundo donax L.) as a perennial biomass crop, a field experiment was carried out from 1996 to 2001 in central Italy. Crop yield response to fertilisation (200-80-200 kg ha-1 N-P-K), harvest time (autumn and winter) and plant density (20,000 and 40,000 plants per ha) was evaluated. The energy balance was assessed considering the energy costs of production inputs and the energy output obtained by the transformation of the final product. The crop yield increased by +50% from the establishment period to the 2nd year of growth when it achieved the highest dry matter yield. The mature crop displayed on average annual production rates of 3 kg dry matter m-2, with maximum values obtained in fertilised plot and during winter harvest time. Fertilisation mainly enhanced dry matter yield in the initial period (+0.7 kg dry matter m-2 as years 1-6 mean value). The biomass water content was affected by harvest time, decreasing by about 10% from autumn to winter. With regard to plant density, higher dry matter yields were achieved with 20,000 plants per ha (+0.3 kg dry matter m-2 as years 1-6 mean value). The total energy input decreased from fertilised (18 GJ ha-1) to not fertilised crops (4 GJ ha-1). The higher energetic input was represented by fertilisation which involved 14 GJ ha-1 (fertilisers plus their distribution) of total energy costs. This value represents 78% of total energy inputs for fertilised crops. Giant reed biomass calorific mean value (i.e., the calorific value obtained from combustion of biomass sample in an adiabatic system) was about 17 MJ kg-1 dry matter and it was not affected by fertilisation, or by plant density or harvest time. Fertilisation enhanced crop biomass yield from 23 to 27 dry tonnes per ha (years 1-6 mean value). This 15% increase was possible with an energy consumption of 70% of the overall energy cost. Maximum energy yield output was 496 GJ ha-1, obtained with 20,000 plants per ha and fertilisation. From the establishment period to 2nd-6th year of growth the energy production efficiency (as ratio between energy output and energy input per ha) and the net energy yield (as difference between energy output and energy input per ha) increased due to the low crop dry biomass yield and the high energy costs for crop planting. The energy production efficiency and net energy yield were also affected by fertilisation and plant density. In the mature crop the energy efficiency was highest without fertilisation both with 20,000 (131 GJ ha-1) and 40,000 plants per ha (119 GJ ha-1).
Auteur(s) / Author(s)
ANGELINI L. G. (1) ; CECCARINI L. (1) ; BONARI E. (2) ;
Affiliation(s) du ou des auteurs / Author(s) Affiliation(s)
(1) Dipartimento di Agronomia e Gestione dell'Agroecosistema, Via S. Michele degli Scalzi 2, 56100 Pisa, ITALIE
(2) Scuola Superiore di Studi Universitari e di Perfezionamento S. Anna, Piazza Martiri delta Libertà, 33, 56100 Pisa, ITALIE
Revue / Journal Title
European journal of agronomy ISSN 1161-0301
Source / Source
2005, vol. 22, no4, pp. 375-389 [15 page(s) (article)] (25 ref.)
Langue / Language
Anglais
Editeur / Publisher
Elsevier Science, Amsterdam, PAYS-BAS (1992) (Revue)
INIST-CNRS, Cote INIST : 26234, 35400012537925.0020
For more details and ordering a copy of the full work
Nutrient Content of Camelina Meal
Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz (camelina) is an oilseed producing plant in the family Brassicaceae (Cruciferae) originating from the Mediterranean to Central Asia. Camelina meal (CM) is the by-product of camelina oil extraction and has a crude protein content similar to canola meal. If growing camelina becomes a viable crop, the integration of the resultant meal into turkey diets would further increase the value of the crop.
Here the results of the nutrient content of camelina meal obtained from trials conducted at the Utah Agricultural Experiment Station (Turkey Research Facility) in Ephraim, Utah.
According to their findings, high concentrations of CM in poult diets inhibited growth. We do not recommend levels greater than 5% of diet.
They have given the selected nutrient and mineral content of various feed ingredients compared to camelina meal( Refer the following table).
See more
Here the results of the nutrient content of camelina meal obtained from trials conducted at the Utah Agricultural Experiment Station (Turkey Research Facility) in Ephraim, Utah.
According to their findings, high concentrations of CM in poult diets inhibited growth. We do not recommend levels greater than 5% of diet.
They have given the selected nutrient and mineral content of various feed ingredients compared to camelina meal( Refer the following table).
| (%) | Camelina meal | Canola meal | DDGS* | Soybean meal |
| Dry Matter | 98.0 | 90.0 | 91.0 | 90.0 |
| Protein | (32.6, 33.4)** | 37.7 | 28.1 | 48.0 |
| Fat | (16.8, 18.9) | 1.5 | 10.0 | 0.60 |
| Calcium | (0.19, 0.28) | 0.65 | 0.20 | 0.20 |
| Phosphorus(tot) | (0.61, 1.41) | 1.17 | 0.70 | 0.67 |
| Potassium | (1.24, 1.56) | 1.45 | 0.92 | 2.55 |
| Sodium | (0.001,0.003) | 0.09 | 0.09 | 0.05 |
| Chloride | 0.002 | 0.05 | 0.17 | 0.05 |
* DDGS = distiller’s dried grains with soluble.
** Numbers in parentheses represent the lower and upper 95% confidence interval of the mean (n = 4).
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Miscanthus- A great research effort in Africa.
Kindly excuse me !! I do know late news is no use. However,I found this really interesting and I believe that there are some of you out there, who are ignorant about this,like me :-)
This project in Africa , aims to create a network of energy plantations across the region, that will export biomass to world markets and fuel local development. The biomass comes in the form of the perennial tropical grass species known as 'elephant grass' or Miscanthus giganteus.
The crop will first be used as a source of solid biofuels that can be used in biomass power plants or co-fired with coal; later on, when technologies mature, it will become a feedstock for the production of liquid biofuels (cellulosic ethanol and synthetic biofuels). The project also envisages the use of miscanthus for the production of innovative bioproducts, such as fiber-reinforced bioplastics, biocomposites and renewable building materials.
For those of the scientific bent - Full article.
This project in Africa , aims to create a network of energy plantations across the region, that will export biomass to world markets and fuel local development. The biomass comes in the form of the perennial tropical grass species known as 'elephant grass' or Miscanthus giganteus.
The crop will first be used as a source of solid biofuels that can be used in biomass power plants or co-fired with coal; later on, when technologies mature, it will become a feedstock for the production of liquid biofuels (cellulosic ethanol and synthetic biofuels). The project also envisages the use of miscanthus for the production of innovative bioproducts, such as fiber-reinforced bioplastics, biocomposites and renewable building materials.
For those of the scientific bent - Full article.
Arundo donax - Ecology, Invasivity, Genetics, Market Assessment
A detailed evaluation of (a) what we know, (b) what we do not know and (c) what should be done about the following aspects of Arundo donax:
1. Ecology and invasivity
2. Management and genetics
3. Economic and market assessment
The paper does not make any specific inferences, but is a good summary of the status of knowledge about Arundo donax. The paper was published in 2004.
Full paper here
1. Ecology and invasivity
2. Management and genetics
3. Economic and market assessment
The paper does not make any specific inferences, but is a good summary of the status of knowledge about Arundo donax. The paper was published in 2004.
Full paper here
Miscanthus in a Nutshell
As discussed earlier, Miscanthus is a promising non-food crop yielding high quality lignocellulosic material which can be used in a number of ways, including energy and fibre production, thatching, and industrial use.
A recent report published by Earthscan publications explains in detail 'Miscanthus -- For Energy and Fibre', encompasses the results and recommendations arising from extensive trials and experiments carried out by the leading European research organizations and institutions in the field.
Much of the research was performed under the auspices of the Miscanthus Productivity Network, established under European Union's Directorate General for Agriculture (DG VI)
.This book is believed to present expert guidance to growth conditions and breeding of Miscanthus, potential productivity and economics, environmental aspects, and harvesting, storage and utilization.
For all the sustainable minds - Miscanthus bioenergy
A recent report published by Earthscan publications explains in detail 'Miscanthus -- For Energy and Fibre', encompasses the results and recommendations arising from extensive trials and experiments carried out by the leading European research organizations and institutions in the field.
Much of the research was performed under the auspices of the Miscanthus Productivity Network, established under European Union's Directorate General for Agriculture (DG VI)
.This book is believed to present expert guidance to growth conditions and breeding of Miscanthus, potential productivity and economics, environmental aspects, and harvesting, storage and utilization.
For all the sustainable minds - Miscanthus bioenergy
Fatty acid Composition of Camelina
I have come across a research article of Estonian Research Institute of Agriculture entitled "Possibilities of growing Camelina sativa in ecological cultivation". According to the researchers, Camelina has some preferences as an oilseed crop than oilseed rape.
They have given the fatty acid consistence of Camelina oil and spring rape (Refer the following table).
Fatty acid composition of Camelina and spring rape (Makowski, 2003)
They have given the fatty acid consistence of Camelina oil and spring rape (Refer the following table).
Fatty acid composition of Camelina and spring rape (Makowski, 2003)
| | Camelina | Spring rape | |
| Average | In Trials (ERIA) | ||
| Oil content | 35…40 | 36…37 | 40…45 |
| Palmitic (C16:0) | 5…8 | 6.07 | 3…6 |
| Stearic (C18:0) | 2…3 | 2.54 | 1…3 |
| Oleic (C18:1) | 13…21 | 13.2 | 55…65 |
| Linoleic (18:2) | 15…20 | 20.8 | 20…25 |
| Linolenic (18:3) | 30…40 | 35.5 | 6…14 |
| Eicosenoic(20:1) | 13…20 | 12,35 | 0…2 |
| Erucic (22:1) | 3…4 | 3.6 | 0…2 |
Summary of the project:
- Camelina sativa is a cruciferous crop which suits for ecological cultivation since the danger of diseases and pests is relatively small.
- Agrotechnology of Camelina (soil tillage) is similar to agrotechnology applied in rape cultivation.
- The method of eradicating weeds in ecological cultivation – harrowing – is not suitable in early stadium of growing Camelina.
- By sufficient growth density Camelina plants can suppress weeds.
- Growing in the mixture with pea, Camelina is a good supporting crop for pea. Pea fixes air-nitrogen by which it guarantees the need for nitrogen at the time of Camelina growing.
Generation of Transgenic Plants of Oilseed Crop Camelina sativa
Here is the abstract of a research done by researchers at Department of Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology, Montana State University, USA.
Abstract: Camelina sativa is an alternative oilseed crop that can be used as a potential low-cost biofuel crop or a source of health promoting omega-3 fatty acids. Currently, the fatty acid composition of camelina does not uniquely fit any particular uses, thus limit its commercial value and large-scale production. In order to improve oil quality and other agronomic characters, we have developed an efficient and simple in planta method to generate transgenic camelina plants. The method included Agrobacterium-mediated inoculation of plants at early flowering stage along with a vacuum infiltration procedure. We used a fluorescent protein (DsRed) as a visual selection marker, which allowed us to conveniently screen mature transgenic seeds from a large number of untransformed seeds. Using this method, over 1% of transgenic seeds can be obtained. Genetic analysis revealed that most of transgenic plants contain a single copy of transgene. In addition, we also demonstrated that transgenic camelina seeds produced novel hydroxy fatty acids by transforming a castor fatty acid hydroxylase. In conclusion, our results provide a rapid means to genetically improve agronomic characters of camelina, including fatty acid profiles of its seed oils. Camelina may serve as a potential industrial crop to produce novel biotechnology products.
Abstract: Camelina sativa is an alternative oilseed crop that can be used as a potential low-cost biofuel crop or a source of health promoting omega-3 fatty acids. Currently, the fatty acid composition of camelina does not uniquely fit any particular uses, thus limit its commercial value and large-scale production. In order to improve oil quality and other agronomic characters, we have developed an efficient and simple in planta method to generate transgenic camelina plants. The method included Agrobacterium-mediated inoculation of plants at early flowering stage along with a vacuum infiltration procedure. We used a fluorescent protein (DsRed) as a visual selection marker, which allowed us to conveniently screen mature transgenic seeds from a large number of untransformed seeds. Using this method, over 1% of transgenic seeds can be obtained. Genetic analysis revealed that most of transgenic plants contain a single copy of transgene. In addition, we also demonstrated that transgenic camelina seeds produced novel hydroxy fatty acids by transforming a castor fatty acid hydroxylase. In conclusion, our results provide a rapid means to genetically improve agronomic characters of camelina, including fatty acid profiles of its seed oils. Camelina may serve as a potential industrial crop to produce novel biotechnology products.
Process of Bio-Diesel Production from Camelina Oil
Here is the results of a project conducted by researchers at Crops Research Centre, Oak Park, Ireland. The aim of the project was to examine the potential of alternative vegetable oils, oil wastes or animal fats as bio-diesel feedstocks, and the performance of road vehicles using bio-diesel blends made from these materials. Three feedstock materials were considered: waste cooking oil from the catering industry, Camelina oil, and beef tallow.
They have showed that the oil yield from Camelina sativa is similar to that of rape, but it requires lower fertiliser and pesticide inputs, which leads to a lower cost and a more favourable energy ratio.
They have also provided the low-temperature properties of blends of waste cooking oil ester and mineral diesel( refer the following table).The ester yields for camelina oil were higher than for waste cooking oil. The fuel properties of the methyl ester were also within specifications with the exception of cold filter plug point (CFPP).
see more
They have showed that the oil yield from Camelina sativa is similar to that of rape, but it requires lower fertiliser and pesticide inputs, which leads to a lower cost and a more favourable energy ratio.
They have also provided the low-temperature properties of blends of waste cooking oil ester and mineral diesel( refer the following table).The ester yields for camelina oil were higher than for waste cooking oil. The fuel properties of the methyl ester were also within specifications with the exception of cold filter plug point (CFPP).
| Camelina | Mineral | Cloud | CFPP | Pour |
| 100 | 0 | +3 | -3 | -4 |
| 80 | 20 | +3 | -7 | -6 |
| 60 | 40 | +3 | -9 | -9 |
| 40 | 60 | +3 | -11 | -12 |
| 20 | 80 | +3 | -13 | <-18 |
| 0 | 100 | +3 | -15 | <-21 |
see more
Use of Saline And Wastewater for Growing Arundo donax
Second generation biofuel crops (non food, cellulosic feedstock) or pulp/paper crops are needed that grow well on saline lands with wastewaters. Here is a paper that reports on the underutilised resources of saline water and land to grow the second generation biofuel crop Arundo donax (Adx). This crop together with other cellulose feedstocks could form the basis of a new biofuel or pulp/paper industry .Trial results are presented for Adx growing on saline soil and irrigated with saline winery wastewater for biomass production, nutrient removal, salt tolerance, weed risk and carbon sequestration.
Initial economic analysis of Adx enterprises indicated they were viable options for cost saving measures of wastewater remediation.
This work has shown the potential for Adx to treat saline wastewaters, Phosporous and Nitrogen rich wastewaters (e.g. sewage or winery wastewaters) and to produce high biomass yields. This biomass can be used for feedstock for combined heat and power factories (to run pumps and other equipment) or to produce ethanol.
see more
Initial economic analysis of Adx enterprises indicated they were viable options for cost saving measures of wastewater remediation.
This work has shown the potential for Adx to treat saline wastewaters, Phosporous and Nitrogen rich wastewaters (e.g. sewage or winery wastewaters) and to produce high biomass yields. This biomass can be used for feedstock for combined heat and power factories (to run pumps and other equipment) or to produce ethanol.
see more
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Biomass Gasification Integrated with Pyrolysis in a Circulating Fluidised Bed
Abstract
The use of biomass for energy generation is getting increasing attention. At present, gasification of biomass is taken as a popular technical route to produce fuel gas for application in boilers, engine, gas turbine or fuel cell. Up to now, most of researchers have focused their attentions only on fixed-bed gasification and fluidised bed gasification under airblown conditions. In that case, the producer gas is contaminated by high tar contents and particles which could lead to the corrosion and wear of blades of turbine. Furthermore, both the technologies, particularly fixed bed gasification, are not flexible for using multiple biomass-fuel types and also not feasible economically and environmentally for large scale application up to 10-50 MWth. An innovative circulating fluidised bed concept has been considered in our laboratory for biomass gasification thereby overcoming these challenges. The concept combines and integrates partial oxidation, fast pyrolysis (with an instantaneous drying), gasification, and tar cracking, as well as a shift reaction, with the purpose of producing a high quality of gas, in terms of low tar level and particulates carried out in the producer gas, and overall emissions reduction associated with the combustion of producer gas. This paper describes our innovative concept and presents some experimental results. The results indicate that the gas yield can be above 1.83 N m3/kg and the fluctuation of the gas yield during the period of operation is 3.3% at temperature of 750 °C. Generally speaking, the results achieved support our concept as a promising alternative to gasify biomass for the generation of electricity.
Auteur(s) / Author(s)
CHEN G. (1 2) ; ANDRIES J. (2) ; SPLIETHOFF H. (2) ; FANG M. (3) ; VAN DE ENDEN P. J. (2) ;
Affiliation(s) du ou des auteurs / Author(s) Affiliation(s)
(1) Bioenergy and Wastes Treatment Group, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Weijin Road 92, Tianjin 300072, Naikai District, CHINE
(2) Section Thermal Power Engineering, Faculty of Design, Engineering and Production, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, 2628 CD Deft, PAYS-BAS
(3) Institute for Thermal Power Engineering, Zhejiang University, Yugu Road 20, Hangzhou 310027, CHINE
Revue / Journal Title
Solar energy ISSN 0038-092X CODEN SRENA4
Source / Source
Congrès
Solar World Congress 2001, Adelaide , AUSTRALIE (2001)
2004, vol. 76, no 1-3 (362 p.) [Document : 5 p.] (11 ref.), [Notes: Selected papers], pp. 345-349 [5 page(s) (article)]
Source
The use of biomass for energy generation is getting increasing attention. At present, gasification of biomass is taken as a popular technical route to produce fuel gas for application in boilers, engine, gas turbine or fuel cell. Up to now, most of researchers have focused their attentions only on fixed-bed gasification and fluidised bed gasification under airblown conditions. In that case, the producer gas is contaminated by high tar contents and particles which could lead to the corrosion and wear of blades of turbine. Furthermore, both the technologies, particularly fixed bed gasification, are not flexible for using multiple biomass-fuel types and also not feasible economically and environmentally for large scale application up to 10-50 MWth. An innovative circulating fluidised bed concept has been considered in our laboratory for biomass gasification thereby overcoming these challenges. The concept combines and integrates partial oxidation, fast pyrolysis (with an instantaneous drying), gasification, and tar cracking, as well as a shift reaction, with the purpose of producing a high quality of gas, in terms of low tar level and particulates carried out in the producer gas, and overall emissions reduction associated with the combustion of producer gas. This paper describes our innovative concept and presents some experimental results. The results indicate that the gas yield can be above 1.83 N m3/kg and the fluctuation of the gas yield during the period of operation is 3.3% at temperature of 750 °C. Generally speaking, the results achieved support our concept as a promising alternative to gasify biomass for the generation of electricity.
Auteur(s) / Author(s)
CHEN G. (1 2) ; ANDRIES J. (2) ; SPLIETHOFF H. (2) ; FANG M. (3) ; VAN DE ENDEN P. J. (2) ;
Affiliation(s) du ou des auteurs / Author(s) Affiliation(s)
(1) Bioenergy and Wastes Treatment Group, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Weijin Road 92, Tianjin 300072, Naikai District, CHINE
(2) Section Thermal Power Engineering, Faculty of Design, Engineering and Production, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, 2628 CD Deft, PAYS-BAS
(3) Institute for Thermal Power Engineering, Zhejiang University, Yugu Road 20, Hangzhou 310027, CHINE
Revue / Journal Title
Solar energy ISSN 0038-092X CODEN SRENA4
Source / Source
Congrès
Solar World Congress 2001, Adelaide , AUSTRALIE (2001)
2004, vol. 76, no 1-3 (362 p.) [Document : 5 p.] (11 ref.), [Notes: Selected papers], pp. 345-349 [5 page(s) (article)]
Source
Solar Energy Based Biomass Gasification
One of the drawbacks of biomass gasification systems is that the energy to power these reactors is typically drawn from coal-fired power plants. To produce a truly carbon-neutral, or even better, a carbon-negative fuel, the electricity to turn waste biomass feedstocks into a syngas, which can be further processed into fuels, must come from a renewable energy source.
To that end, a team of scientists including engineers and horticulturists from the University of Colorado in Boulder, Colorado State University in Fort Collins and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colo., have embarked on a project to develop rapid solar-thermal reactor systems for the conversion of biomass to syngas. The project is being funded by a three-year, $1 million USDA and U.S. DOE grant, which was announced in early March as part of an $18.4 million package to fund 21 biomass research and development demonstration projects.
More from here
To that end, a team of scientists including engineers and horticulturists from the University of Colorado in Boulder, Colorado State University in Fort Collins and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colo., have embarked on a project to develop rapid solar-thermal reactor systems for the conversion of biomass to syngas. The project is being funded by a three-year, $1 million USDA and U.S. DOE grant, which was announced in early March as part of an $18.4 million package to fund 21 biomass research and development demonstration projects.
More from here
Refinement Process of Biomass Gasification Gas
Biomass gasification gas derived from CFB (Circulating Fluidized-Bed) gasifier that contains a few impurities that may cause some troubles must be refined before being used. This report discusses a refinement scheme of the biomass gasification gas that may apply for biomass gasification-hybrid system of generating electricity and synthesizing methanol. The refinement process consists of high temperature gas filtration, catalytic tar reforming, wet gas scrubbing, desulfurizing agent and hydrogenation catalyst. An examination was done for the refinement process for woody biomass gasification gas at the bench test apparatus. In those experiments, the refinement process could eliminate sulfide under 0.1 ppm-dry and unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbons under 0.01%-dry from woody biomass gasification gas, and we could collect 93-95% methanol. Reaction yield of methanol had not fallen during the total of 20 hours.
Source & abstract
Source & abstract
Syngas Compositions from Biomass Gasification for Oak and Pine
In this interesting PDF document - which also comprises useful data on a whole range of aspects for biomass gasification for hydrogen production - page 7 gives data for syngas composition for oak and pine biomass for various temperatures.
On average, the four largest constituents (by volume) are H2 (30-50%), CO (10-30%), CO2 (20-25%) and CH4 (5-15%). As can be seen from the percentages provided, the biggest variations (with temperature) happen for H2 and CO. What can also be seen from the data provided in the PDF is that with temperature, the % of H2 and CO2 in the syngas increase while the % of CO and CH4 decrease.
Page 7 of the PDF also gives an excellent, detailed diagram of the biomass-to-hydrogen block flow diagram.
The research is from NREL.
On average, the four largest constituents (by volume) are H2 (30-50%), CO (10-30%), CO2 (20-25%) and CH4 (5-15%). As can be seen from the percentages provided, the biggest variations (with temperature) happen for H2 and CO. What can also be seen from the data provided in the PDF is that with temperature, the % of H2 and CO2 in the syngas increase while the % of CO and CH4 decrease.
Page 7 of the PDF also gives an excellent, detailed diagram of the biomass-to-hydrogen block flow diagram.
The research is from NREL.
Arundo donax Created Wildfires and Water Problems
A couple of posts back, I referred to an article that pointed out how Arundo donax could result in wildfires. This time, I came across another article that emphasised the risk of wildfires from Arundo donax, as well as mentioned that it could be a water guzzler.
"The giant reed (Arundo donax), for example, is a proposed biofuel crop from West Asia which is already invasive in parts of North and Central America. Naturally flammable, it increases the likelihood of wildfires – a threat to both humans and native species in places such as California. In South Africa, the giant reed is considered a national problem as it drinks 2,000 liters of water per standing meter of growth, threatening water security for the nation’s growing human population."
Read more from here
"The giant reed (Arundo donax), for example, is a proposed biofuel crop from West Asia which is already invasive in parts of North and Central America. Naturally flammable, it increases the likelihood of wildfires – a threat to both humans and native species in places such as California. In South Africa, the giant reed is considered a national problem as it drinks 2,000 liters of water per standing meter of growth, threatening water security for the nation’s growing human population."
Read more from here
Fuel and Electricity from Arundo donax - A detailed post
A detailed and illustrative blog post from the Energy Domain that refers to a project by Florida-based Biomass Investment Group, which is embarking on a project using Arundo donax as an energy crop that will be grown on 20,000 acres (8000ha). The biomass will be converted into bio-oil, a heavy fuel oil, via a fast-pyrolysis process. This carbon-neutral oil will then be used in a power plant that will provide electricity to some 80,000 Floridian households.
Useful read
Useful read
Arundo donax Can Cause Frequent Wildfires?
Yep, that's what I read in this detailed article on the negative consequences of biofuels.
To quote:
"They pointed out that the giant reed (whose Latin name is Arundo donax) originally grown in West Asia, which is already invasive in parts of North and Central America, is naturally flammable. The plant causes wildfires, which is not only a global warming risk but also a direct threat."
This aspect of AD needs to be given a closer look
To quote:
"They pointed out that the giant reed (whose Latin name is Arundo donax) originally grown in West Asia, which is already invasive in parts of North and Central America, is naturally flammable. The plant causes wildfires, which is not only a global warming risk but also a direct threat."
This aspect of AD needs to be given a closer look
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Gasification Suppliers - Pyrolysis, Syngas, Small-scale Gasifiers
A long and excellent list of providers and suppliers of gasification systems provided here.
From Bioenergylists site
From Bioenergylists site
Econoburn Wood Gasification Boiler from Alternative Fuel Boilers
A complete line of Econoburn™ wood gasification boilers designed to meet the heating and hot water needs of both residential and commercial customers has been unveiled by Dunkirk, NY-headquartered Alternative Fuel Boilers, LLC.
Traditional wood furnaces, Raines noted, lose a significant amount of heat up the chimney which also results in the release of air polluting greenhouse gases. The gasification process, he explained, captures then reignites flue gases in the combustion chamber resulting in a heating efficiency nearing 90 percent. And with virtually no exhaust gases, the high-tech boilers help ease the burden on the environment.
Econoburn™ units range in size from 100,000 to 1 million BTUs (see specs page) for use as either a primary heat source or to supplement one that already exists. The boilers are adaptable to both hot water and forced air heating systems, and the company offers accessory products for swimming pools and hot tubs along with heat exchanger fans for industrial buildings.
Traditional wood furnaces, Raines noted, lose a significant amount of heat up the chimney which also results in the release of air polluting greenhouse gases. The gasification process, he explained, captures then reignites flue gases in the combustion chamber resulting in a heating efficiency nearing 90 percent. And with virtually no exhaust gases, the high-tech boilers help ease the burden on the environment.
Econoburn™ units range in size from 100,000 to 1 million BTUs (see specs page) for use as either a primary heat source or to supplement one that already exists. The boilers are adaptable to both hot water and forced air heating systems, and the company offers accessory products for swimming pools and hot tubs along with heat exchanger fans for industrial buildings.
Truck Running on Wood Gas - Wood Chips Gasified for Fuel
You must excuse me for referring to an article that is over 25 years old(!), but it is about an interesting topic - wood gas used for running a truck, and the article also contains links on how to go about constructing one - so I thought it might be worth a read for many of you.
Wood chips or firewood can be gasified into fuel for trucks. With a wood-gas generator, you can tap a proven and decades-old alternative fuel.
In short, says the article, for a total cost of about $125 (that's 1981 $ by the way!) — and a fair amount of cutting and welding — the team has come up with an alternative fuel power system that not only moves their rig down the road as smoothly and reliably as any conventionally powered automobile, but does so at zero fuel cost!
Read more from here
Wood chips or firewood can be gasified into fuel for trucks. With a wood-gas generator, you can tap a proven and decades-old alternative fuel.
In short, says the article, for a total cost of about $125 (that's 1981 $ by the way!) — and a fair amount of cutting and welding — the team has come up with an alternative fuel power system that not only moves their rig down the road as smoothly and reliably as any conventionally powered automobile, but does so at zero fuel cost!
Read more from here
Outdoor Wood Gasifier Furnace - Specs, Prices, Features
Here are some detailed specifications of a wood gasifier furnace, provided by Barrett Inc. Thought I'd provide a link to the page because some readers might find it useful to know about these small gasification systems, their specs, related details and prices.
Link
Link
Gasification - Evaluation of Technologies, Costs, Advantages, Suppliers
Here are some interesting details on gasification systems and processes from Recovered Energy Inc., based on their detailed research into these systems. The company says it has investigated approximated 70 different gasification processes, 36 plasma gasification processes, 5 pyrolysis processes, 3 hybrid thermal processes, 100 gas turbines, numerous pollution control equipment providers, 4 ethanol processes and 5 water distillation processes in order to find answers. Here is some of what they have learned:
"
* Waste can be gasified to produce synthesis gas (syngas), which can be used to produce electricity. Gasification technology is well proven. There are more than 100 plasma gasification plants around the world and a similar number of gasification plants.
* The only way to produce power from waste efficiently is to use a combined cycle gas/steam turbine.
* Only certain gas turbines have experience with syngas.
* Syngas can be used to make ethanol with certain specific gasification/pyrolysis processes.
* Waste steam from the steam turbine can be used in certain situations to make large quantities of pure distilled water.
* The various gasification and plasma gasification technologies have specific applications or niches where they fit best.
* Plasma gasification has fewer emissions than gasification and treats certain types of waste better.
* The capital cost for a plasma gasification plant is higher than the cost for a gasification plant. However, the overall economics for plasma is better than gasification in many situations, even though the capital cost is higher.
* There is no universal cure. However, gasification and plasma gasification can each be used for specific situations to solve significant problems. Each situation needs to be analyzed to determine the best fit.
* Of the many providers that claim to have technology there are only a handful that have proven technology. It is difficult to sort out who has real technology and who does not have real technology. Many of the providers are making claims that they cannot support...."
Interesting and useful summary. We at BioZio agree with many of the points mentioned here, based on our own monitoring of the gasification industry (especially biomass gasification) for the past couple of years.
See more details from Recovered Energy web site
"
* Waste can be gasified to produce synthesis gas (syngas), which can be used to produce electricity. Gasification technology is well proven. There are more than 100 plasma gasification plants around the world and a similar number of gasification plants.
* The only way to produce power from waste efficiently is to use a combined cycle gas/steam turbine.
* Only certain gas turbines have experience with syngas.
* Syngas can be used to make ethanol with certain specific gasification/pyrolysis processes.
* Waste steam from the steam turbine can be used in certain situations to make large quantities of pure distilled water.
* The various gasification and plasma gasification technologies have specific applications or niches where they fit best.
* Plasma gasification has fewer emissions than gasification and treats certain types of waste better.
* The capital cost for a plasma gasification plant is higher than the cost for a gasification plant. However, the overall economics for plasma is better than gasification in many situations, even though the capital cost is higher.
* There is no universal cure. However, gasification and plasma gasification can each be used for specific situations to solve significant problems. Each situation needs to be analyzed to determine the best fit.
* Of the many providers that claim to have technology there are only a handful that have proven technology. It is difficult to sort out who has real technology and who does not have real technology. Many of the providers are making claims that they cannot support...."
Interesting and useful summary. We at BioZio agree with many of the points mentioned here, based on our own monitoring of the gasification industry (especially biomass gasification) for the past couple of years.
See more details from Recovered Energy web site
Low Pressure Indirect Biomass Gasification - Battelle Gasifier
Here's a detailed description by NREL of a June 2000 project of a low-pressure, indirect gasification system in Vermont, USA. This system does not use oxygen but steam, which erduces the cost of operation.
The process mixes wood chips with very hot sand at a temperature of about 830°C, or 1500°F, in a steel tank called a gasifier. The hot sand breaks down the wood and, helped by added steam, causes the resulting carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen to form into combustible gases. The gases and sand leave the gasifier and the gas is cleaned for use as fuel. This fuel burns cleanly with a heat content of about 500 Btu per cubic foot. This gas can be used directly in unmodified gas turbines.
The Battelle gasifier differs from others producing medium-heat content gas because it does not use pure oxygen; therefore, it costs much less to build and operate. Steam replaces oxygen in this modern process. The Vermont gasifier processes biomass much more quickly than other gasifiers, which means that smaller, less costly
equipment is needed for a given amount of biomass. This, in combination with low-pressure operation, further reduces its construction cost.
Full details here
The process mixes wood chips with very hot sand at a temperature of about 830°C, or 1500°F, in a steel tank called a gasifier. The hot sand breaks down the wood and, helped by added steam, causes the resulting carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen to form into combustible gases. The gases and sand leave the gasifier and the gas is cleaned for use as fuel. This fuel burns cleanly with a heat content of about 500 Btu per cubic foot. This gas can be used directly in unmodified gas turbines.
The Battelle gasifier differs from others producing medium-heat content gas because it does not use pure oxygen; therefore, it costs much less to build and operate. Steam replaces oxygen in this modern process. The Vermont gasifier processes biomass much more quickly than other gasifiers, which means that smaller, less costly
equipment is needed for a given amount of biomass. This, in combination with low-pressure operation, further reduces its construction cost.
Full details here
Friday, July 10, 2009
Why only Camelina fuel in aviaition industry?
The main problem the aviation industry is facing is the amount of carbon emissions . The only solution to curb this issue is to switch over to biofuels , specifically switching over to Camlina. I think from this moment I can be called a big –time Camelina fan.
Camelina is indeed one of the most promising sources for renewable fuels ever. The aviation industry is widely using camelina biofuels for many test flights and almost 80 % of these tests re proved successful. ( Earlier post) . If I am not wrong, I remember reading an article published by the green energy congress that the Camelina have drastically reduced the green house emissions. A life cycle analysis was performed on Camelina in April 2009 to check if it was the right choice fas a jet and aircraft fuel . And yes, It showed green signal on all the flight tests and also research reveal that Camelina is the best option and may be even a better option than what is available today.
The quickest way to reduce carbon emissions from aviation is to begin replacing petroleum fuel with fuel made from renewable and sustainable camelina oil. The acreage that have been contracted for 2009 will be used to continue to develop the promising biojet market It is very strongly beleived that no other potential feedstock can provide as much fuel in as short a horizon.
Future research might investigate camelina seed feedstock supply chain more thoroughly, and focus on a detailed investigation of farming practices to reduce N2O emissions from soils. Another important research question is to investigate camelina cultivation methods to assure that no adverse land use change impacts will result from biofuels production.
—Shonnard and Koers (2009)
Camelina is indeed one of the most promising sources for renewable fuels ever. The aviation industry is widely using camelina biofuels for many test flights and almost 80 % of these tests re proved successful. ( Earlier post) . If I am not wrong, I remember reading an article published by the green energy congress that the Camelina have drastically reduced the green house emissions. A life cycle analysis was performed on Camelina in April 2009 to check if it was the right choice fas a jet and aircraft fuel . And yes, It showed green signal on all the flight tests and also research reveal that Camelina is the best option and may be even a better option than what is available today.
The quickest way to reduce carbon emissions from aviation is to begin replacing petroleum fuel with fuel made from renewable and sustainable camelina oil. The acreage that have been contracted for 2009 will be used to continue to develop the promising biojet market It is very strongly beleived that no other potential feedstock can provide as much fuel in as short a horizon.
Future research might investigate camelina seed feedstock supply chain more thoroughly, and focus on a detailed investigation of farming practices to reduce N2O emissions from soils. Another important research question is to investigate camelina cultivation methods to assure that no adverse land use change impacts will result from biofuels production.
—Shonnard and Koers (2009)
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Biomass Gasification - Images, Charts and Illustrations
I spent some time earlier today collecting useful and interesting pictures and illustrations of biomass gasification systems. I have provided the list below:
1. Fixed Bed Gasification Reactor - Image link - source page
2. Nexterra - GE Biomass Gasification System - Image link - source page
3. A nice chart of the biomass gasification process - from Taylor Recycling - Image link - source page
4. A chart that shows what happens to each of the components in the biomass feedstock during gasification - image link - source page
5. Open Top Reburn Downdraft Biomass Gasifier - Image link - source page
6. Nexterra Biomass Gasification System for Johnson Controls at DOE's ORNL at Tennessee - Image link - source page
1. Fixed Bed Gasification Reactor - Image link - source page
2. Nexterra - GE Biomass Gasification System - Image link - source page
3. A nice chart of the biomass gasification process - from Taylor Recycling - Image link - source page
4. A chart that shows what happens to each of the components in the biomass feedstock during gasification - image link - source page
5. Open Top Reburn Downdraft Biomass Gasifier - Image link - source page
6. Nexterra Biomass Gasification System for Johnson Controls at DOE's ORNL at Tennessee - Image link - source page
Detailed Article on Syngas Based Cellulosic Ethanol and Enerkem
An excellent and detailed article on cellulosic ethanol, its status and trends in the North American market - Canada and the USA.
The focus of the article is on Enerkem which is following the syngas-ethanol route for cellulosic feedstock; but there are inputs on other cellulosic ethanol companies as well - not all of them necessarily following the syngas-ethanol route though.
The focus of the article is on Enerkem which is following the syngas-ethanol route for cellulosic feedstock; but there are inputs on other cellulosic ethanol companies as well - not all of them necessarily following the syngas-ethanol route though.
Neste and Stora Enso's Finland BTL Demo with Forestry Waste
Plant will use forestry waste; The BTL plant includes a 12 MW gasification plant
NESTE Oil of Finland and Swedish-Finnish paper and forest products manufacturer Stora Enso have inaugurated a biomass to liquid (BTL) demonstration plant in Varkaus in Finland.
The BTL plant, which includes a 12 MW gasification plant, is a JV and has been built primarily to test BTL technologies, including drying biomass, gasification, gas cleaning and Fischer-Tropsch catalysts. It will make use of forestry residues. The companies hope in the future to produce biocrude for renewable diesel on a commercial scale.
Some of the power for Stora Enso’s pulp mill in Varkaus will be provided by the plant.
Source credit: TCE Today
NESTE Oil of Finland and Swedish-Finnish paper and forest products manufacturer Stora Enso have inaugurated a biomass to liquid (BTL) demonstration plant in Varkaus in Finland.
The BTL plant, which includes a 12 MW gasification plant, is a JV and has been built primarily to test BTL technologies, including drying biomass, gasification, gas cleaning and Fischer-Tropsch catalysts. It will make use of forestry residues. The companies hope in the future to produce biocrude for renewable diesel on a commercial scale.
Some of the power for Stora Enso’s pulp mill in Varkaus will be provided by the plant.
Source credit: TCE Today
Low Temperature Gasification of Corn Stover - UMM Encounters Problems
It was interesting for me to read about a unique gasifier that UMM (University of Minnesota, Morris) was experimenting with.
UMM’s goal was to create the first gasifier that incinerates the fuel temperatures of 1,000 degrees or lower, producing gas that can be used to create steam for UMM’s system while also preserving minerals in the ash so it can be used in soils. Now, most solid fuel gasifiers burn heavy density wood at a temperature of about 3,000 degrees, and the ash produced can only be used for limited purposes, such as wallboard.
I think the lower temperature gasification is interesting from many aspects. I am wondering if this is the same as pyrolysis (from all accounts it seems so), or whether this low-temp gasification has features that differentiate it from pyrolysis.
Either way, the following was the unique problem faced by the team at UMM:
But when the system was first fired up, operators learned that gasifying loose stover (which was used as the feedstock) posed substantial problems. The stover is moved into the burner, where air is blown through from the bottom of the burner for combustion. But the loose stover has a density of three pounds per cubic foot and the air moved it around in the burner and created a hole in which all the air would move through instead of maintaining a steady flow.
So, the folks decided that corn stover, the way it was used, would not be appropriate. They turned to a company to compact the stover into a form similar to compressed sawdust fireplace logs. The new stover “logs” have a much higher density of 50 pounds per cubic foot (compared to the 3 lb per cubic foot of loose stover). The density is expected to help the fuel remain in place in the burner and even out the heat and air distribution in the gasification process.
Of course, it costs to compact the stover. How the whole compacting process will affect the economics is not known presently. But this presents an interesting case study in waste biomass gasification
Source credit: Morris Sun Tribune
UMM’s goal was to create the first gasifier that incinerates the fuel temperatures of 1,000 degrees or lower, producing gas that can be used to create steam for UMM’s system while also preserving minerals in the ash so it can be used in soils. Now, most solid fuel gasifiers burn heavy density wood at a temperature of about 3,000 degrees, and the ash produced can only be used for limited purposes, such as wallboard.
I think the lower temperature gasification is interesting from many aspects. I am wondering if this is the same as pyrolysis (from all accounts it seems so), or whether this low-temp gasification has features that differentiate it from pyrolysis.
Either way, the following was the unique problem faced by the team at UMM:
But when the system was first fired up, operators learned that gasifying loose stover (which was used as the feedstock) posed substantial problems. The stover is moved into the burner, where air is blown through from the bottom of the burner for combustion. But the loose stover has a density of three pounds per cubic foot and the air moved it around in the burner and created a hole in which all the air would move through instead of maintaining a steady flow.
So, the folks decided that corn stover, the way it was used, would not be appropriate. They turned to a company to compact the stover into a form similar to compressed sawdust fireplace logs. The new stover “logs” have a much higher density of 50 pounds per cubic foot (compared to the 3 lb per cubic foot of loose stover). The density is expected to help the fuel remain in place in the burner and even out the heat and air distribution in the gasification process.
Of course, it costs to compact the stover. How the whole compacting process will affect the economics is not known presently. But this presents an interesting case study in waste biomass gasification
Source credit: Morris Sun Tribune
Nexterra Goes Bigtime in Industrial Gasification
Nexterra was a small Canadian company not so long ago. And now it is going places.
From a single contract three years ago for a plant to replace costly natural gas at a plywood mill at Heffley Creek, north of Kamloops, Nexterra has grown to the point where it is partnering with giants like GE Energy.
GE Energy sees synthetic gas as a perfect fit for clean energy generators it has developed for universities, institutions and condominiums wanting to replace fossil fuels with renewable energy. And thanks to stimulus packages here and in the U.S., never before has so much money been available to make the switch.
What make Nexterra different is that it is developing small, self-contained units that can rely on local biomass for fuel. Everything from urban tree trimmings to construction waste is fuel for the system. Now, this might seem trivial, but it is not, for an important reason: when you use waste biomass as the feedstock, the base feedstock might be cheap, but it could cost a lot to transport it. Small gasifiers that can take local bio-waste will thus be a lot more cost-effective.
The story of Nexterra, its history and evolution makes interesting reading indeed, read more from here
From a single contract three years ago for a plant to replace costly natural gas at a plywood mill at Heffley Creek, north of Kamloops, Nexterra has grown to the point where it is partnering with giants like GE Energy.
GE Energy sees synthetic gas as a perfect fit for clean energy generators it has developed for universities, institutions and condominiums wanting to replace fossil fuels with renewable energy. And thanks to stimulus packages here and in the U.S., never before has so much money been available to make the switch.
What make Nexterra different is that it is developing small, self-contained units that can rely on local biomass for fuel. Everything from urban tree trimmings to construction waste is fuel for the system. Now, this might seem trivial, but it is not, for an important reason: when you use waste biomass as the feedstock, the base feedstock might be cheap, but it could cost a lot to transport it. Small gasifiers that can take local bio-waste will thus be a lot more cost-effective.
The story of Nexterra, its history and evolution makes interesting reading indeed, read more from here
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