Evaluation of Pyrolysis Systems and Biomass Feedstock

Pyrolysis systems are technologies that convert biomass into chars, bio-oils, and combustible gases depending on the reaction conditions used and the desired primary products. The goal of this project is to identify and compare commercial pyrolysis systems for application at small-to-medium biomass processors. The candidate systems will be sorted based on technology complexity, scale, biomass suitability, and cost, and the needs of the community using the pyrolysis system. For the down-selected pyrolysis systems, vendor technical information and/or quotes will be used for techno-economic analysis and other decision metrics. Research into available pyrolysis systems will begin with information compiled by the U.S. Biochar Initiative (USBI) and the International Biochar Initiative (IBI). That system information will then be combined with biomass feedstock quantification and quality analysis, and then application testing for the produced biochars.

The focus of this research is on woody residues from forest burn scare reclamation and a local lumber mill. The purpose of burn scar remediation is to identify uses for materials that are too damaged to be used for lumber or fibers in order to provide revenue for site clean-up. Lumber mill wastes vary in particle sizes and include sawdust, bark, and defective wood. Among the different biochar applications to be considered during evaluation of pyrolysis systems are energy (heat), carbon credits through carbon sequestration, and adsorbents to remove arsenic (or other heavy metals) from water.