Comparing pelletization and torrefaction depots: Optimization of depot capacity and biomass moisture to determine the minimum production cost

Li Chai and Christopher M. Saffron

Applied Energy, 2016, vol. 163, issue C, 387-395

Abstract: In the present study, the biomass upgrading depot capacity and biomass feedstock moisture were optimized to obtain the minimum production cost at the depot gate for the production of woody biofuels. Three technology scenarios are considered in this study: (1) conventional pellets (CP), (2) modestly torrefied pellets (TP1) and (3) severely torrefied pellets (TP2). TP1 has the lowest cost of $7.03/GJLHV at a moisture of 33wt.% and a depot size of 84MWLHV. The effects of climatic conditions and biomass field conditions were also studied for three scenarios. In humid regions of Michigan, TP2 is more economical than other scenarios because of the increased production of combustible gas. The three scenarios have similar sensitivities to biomass field conditions.

Keywords: Pelletization; Torrefaction; Depot scale; Biomass moisture; Production cost (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2016
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (18)

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DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2015.11.018

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