Utilization of biogenic residues and wastes in thermochemical systems for the production of fuels: current status of the project

For the production of alternative fuels, biogenic residues and waste materials were thermochemically converted by fast pyrolysis in a joint project between the Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum (DBFZ) and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). Biogenic residues and wastes which are not used so far or which could be utilized more efficiently were studied to add to the line of feedstock for future thermochemical applications. Project work includes the investigation and selection of possible residual feedstock and its potential, conversion of several feedstocks (e.g. different varieties of straw, hay, waste wood, bark, driftwood) by fast pyrolysis, and energetic use of the products to generate electricity and heat. An ecological and economic evaluation was conducted for an integral view of the process and feedstock utilized. Besides research and experimental activities of the project, a database on biomass pyrolysis tests has been established for public use. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd