Torrefaction Kinetics of Norwegian Biomass Fuels

Abstract

Torrefaction kinetics of Norwegian biomass fuels, including spruce (softwood) and birch (hardwood) was studied using a thermogravimetric analyser. Small samples of approximately 10 mg and particle size of 63-125 µm were heated at a constant heating rate of 5 °C/min and kept afterwards for 4 hours in isothermal conditions at different temperatures (230, 240, 250, 260, 270 and 280 °C). A two-step kinetic model was employed to simulate the recorded mass loss curves. The results showed that thedecomposition of the initial biomass in the first step, to form an intermediate solid and volatiles, exhibited a higher conversion rate compared with the second step.