The Feasibility of Using Microwave Induced Plasma Torrefaction for the Production of an Energy Dense, Carbon Neutral Fuel from Wood Pellets

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There is a real need to de-carbonise energy production in the UK and elsewhere in order that Governments meet theirobligations set by the Kyoto Protocol and meet renewable energy generation targets. Using sustainable sources of wood asa fuel is one such method of reducing the CO2 emissions associated with energy production. However, wood has a highmoisture content, low energy density, has variable combustion properties and there are considerable costs incurredmodifying existing power plants for co-firing. As result the energy sector is looking increasingly to torrefaction to produce anenergy dense and renewable "bicoal" from wood. Torrefaction is low temperature heating of wood in the absence of oxygento produce a char-like fuel that, once pelletised, has properties similar to coal. However, the economics of existingtorrefaction technology has yet to be proven on an industrial scale and based upon prior pilot activity we believe thatmicrowave induced plasma torrefation (MPT) technology provide a more cost effective way to torrefy wood. The overallobjective of our project is to develop a prototype MPT demonstration reactor for cost effectively converting wood pellets tobiocoal.This study will bring together a unique project delivery consortium comprising of Stopford Projects Ltd (SPL) and LiverpoolJohn Moores University (LJMU). SPL is a multidisciplinary engineering design and project management consultancy withsignificant expertise in green technology and energy projects spanning research through to plant commissioning.This project will investigate the feasibility of using microwave plasma technology for torrefying pre-pelletised wood with theintention of improving fuel combustion efficiencies and reducing OPEX costs. It is the intention of the consortium todevelop, test and demonstrate an industrial lab-scale reactor as an output of the project as well as developing thetechnological and commercial route to market. Unlike currently available torrefaction technologies, the novel advantage ofthe described microwave plasma technology is that the process has a lower parasitic load, has significantly lower capitalcosts, has greater tolerance of mixed feed streams, is more durable, modular, and potentially mobile. As such thetechnology presents the sector with a more efficient and cost effective method of handling and transporting woody biomassthan conventional processes.The project will be conducted in nine Work packages:Work package 1: Feedstock Characterisation: (2 months)Work package 2: System specifications and boundary conditions (2 months)Work package 3: Microwave plasma torrefaction reactor design parameters (3 months)Work package 4: Design and build microwave plasma reactor (2.5 months)Work package 5: Experimentation and Optimisation (3 months).Work package 6: Process performance and analysis (2 months)Work package 7: Engagement with endusers (2 month)Work package 8: Regulatory Requirements (2 month)Work package 9: Process Scale-Up and Technology Exploitation (3 months)