Analysis of Factors Affecting Miscanthus Pellet Production and Pellet Quality using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

The Miscanthus sacchariflorus strain Goedae-Uksae 1 has recently been developed as an energy crop, because of its rapid growth, ease of culture, and large size. In this study, Miscanthus pellets were investigated for further practical use of renewable resources. The pellets were produced on a pilot scale and their characteristics and quality were investigated. Moisture content, density of raw materials, and die ratio (L/D) were determined to be the main factors affecting Miscanthus pelletizing. Thus, a central composite design using response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize conditions for standard grade Miscanthus pellet production. The optimal values predicted by the model equation were confirmed by the experimental data. The optimum ranges of parameters for pellet production were identified as moisture content, 20 to 25%; density of raw materials, 240 to 300 kg/m3; and die ratio, 4.5:1 to 5.0:1. Under these conditions, Miscanthus pellets were produced meeting the standards of qualities, such as size, bulk density, durability, moisture content.

Keywords

• Solid fuels
• Lignocellulosic pellets
• Miscanthus pellets