Utilization of waste forest biomass: pelletization studies of torrefied sawmill wood chips

Abstract

The paper presents the effects pelletization process of torrefied waste forest biomass – sawmill wastes. The sawmill waste are generated in significant quantities and has significant energy potential. The use of torrefaction and pelletization process enables to produce mechanically durable fuel pellets. Aim of the studies was to evaluate the effect of different kind of additives (binders) to torrefied waste forest biomass on pelletization process characteristic (production capacity, energy consumption) and properties of produced pellets (i.e. density, mechanical durability). The most effective binder among the tested was modified wheat starch. Pellets made with this addition were characterized by the highest mechanical strength.