Torrefaction and densification of biomass from Municipal Solid Waste

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Waste Management Services of the City of Edmonton is very interested to explore microwave assisted torrefaction technology for more efficient torrefaction of woody and lignocellulosic biomass of construction and municipal solid waste. A systematic and scientific approach is required in characterization of biofuel quality of microwave assisted torrefied biomass and torrefaction process to bring this technology successfully. To meet this challenge we have proposed to determine the effects of reactor size, microwave power level, reaction time and raw biomass moisture content on microwave assisted torrefaction. The effect of microwave torrefaction on the characteristics of torrefied products, grinding performance, and hydrophobicity will be determined as well. My research group has been working on radio frequency and microwave for several years in various projects related to grains and other plant materials, and we possess most of the equipment required for this project. The research on energy production from the combustible portion of the solid wastes is relatively new to Canada compared to other countries. The success of this project will represent a remarkable breakthrough for conversion of waste to biofuel, and will also lead to new avenues in adding value to solid wastes, benefitting both Canadian communities and biofuel industries.