Thermal gasification, pyrolysis and sustainability

• Assess the potential and sustainability of selected biomass resources
• Clarify the principles of pyrolysis and gasification processes and the most important technical challenges
• Perform mass and energy balances for pyrolysis and gasification processes
• Understand the effect of the most important fuel properties and their effect on the gasification and pyrolysis process
• Carry out simple thermal conversion processes
• Characterize products of biomass pyrolysis and gasification, including biochar, producer gas, bio-oil and its potential as biofuel
• Describe the potential applications for the products of pyrolysis and gasification, and their role in a circular bioeconomy
• Present and discuss results obtained in experimental exercises

The course will be structured in three main parts:
− Biomass resources sustainability and characterization
− Theory and practice of pyrolysis and gasification
− Analysis of products and reporting of results

The biomass resource and characterization part focuses on biomass as a renewable energy source and its different conversion paths for energy applications. Moreover, challenges that occur during thermal biomass conversion will be discussed.

The theory behind gasification and pyrolysis processes will be covered in the lectures, as well as an overview on the state-of-the art technologies. Experimental runs of pyrolysis and gasification reactors at Risø will provide a practical example of such processes. Simple calculations of mass balance and energy balances for selected processes will be carried out.

The products, such as biochar, bio-oil and gas and their characterization methods will be introduced and the students will apply these in the experimental work in the laboratory, including elemental analysis, GC and GC-MS analysis, Karl-Fisher titration, BET analysis.

Enough time will be given during the course to work on the report of lab experiments results. In addition, students will have to complete a final exam focused on the contents of the course lectures, especially technology fundamentals and applications of pyrolysis and gasification technologies and products.

• 32 – 34

28121/28244, The course will be made to fit your level of competence (beginner, experienced, advanced) but experimental experience in pilot scale is recommended.

Lectures, lab experiments, practical assignments and group work

Minimum: 10, Maximum: 16.

Please be aware that this course has a minimum requirement for the number of participants needed, in order for it to be held. If these requirements are not met, then the course will not be held. Furthermore, there is a limited number of seats available. If there are too many applicants, a pool will be created for the remainder of the qualified applicants, and they will be selected at random. You will be informed 8 days before the start of the course, whether you have been allocated a spot.