Colloquia

Summary

This research focuses on development and validation of a model of the biomass gasification process, particularly examining the effects of various parameters, including temperature, steam-to-biomass ratio, and equivalence ratio, on the gasification outcomes. The colloquium will present the research findings from the Master thesis, completed at the University of Twente. The research, conducted in collaboration with HoSt, explores the development and validation of a simplified biomass gasification model to study the effects of temperature reduction on syngas production.

The main objective is to optimize biomass throughput and syngas yield while managing tar formation. By creating a 0-D empirical model, the study provides a user-friendly tool for industry professionals to conduct techno-economic analyses. The model simulates the gasification process, considering various parameters such as temperature, steam-to-biomass ratio, and equivalence ratio. It is validated against experimental data from multiple sources, including real-world industrial gasifiers operated by HoSt. Lowering the gasification temperature increases biomass throughput and enhances the chemical energy retention of the biomass. However, it also results in higher tar production, which must be managed using a tar-cracking system.

  The findings contribute to the advancement of biomass gasification by offering insights into operational strategies that could enhance process efficiency and sustainability. By providing a simplified model, the research bridges the gap between scientific rigor and practical applicability, enabling better decision-making