Spruce and Barley Elemental and Stochiometric Analysis Affected by the Impact of Pellet Production and Torrefaction

Abstract

Biomass is a potential biofuel which may help fighting high carbon dioxide emissions and negative impacts of global warming. Analysis of Norway spruce (Picea abies) and barley (Hordeum vulgare) were performed at the laboratory of Czech University of Life Sciences. Material was torrefied in an inert nitrogen atmosphere at the temperatures of 250 °C and 280 °C for 45 minutes. Elementary and stoichiometric parameters were monitored and impact of torrefaction and pellet production on carbon footprint was determined. Torrefied and pelleted material showed better fuel properties in comparison to the original material. Calorific value of the torrefied spruce wood chip increased by 12.27% when torrefied at the temperature of 250 °C, and by 25.41% when torrefied at the temperature of 280 °C.