Analysis on the effects of pre-heating temperature on mechanical properties of pellets made from corn stalk powder

Abstract

A mould pressing unit is used to investigate the effects of preheating temperature on the compact characteristics of ground corn stalk. Diameter of 10 mm mould was used to pellet the corn stalk; the preheating temperature was applied to the forming mould ranges 60 to 180°C with 20°C interval. Firstly, for each given temperature in experimental processing, it indicates that the sequential maximum force of each compression stroke increased follows the exponential form in close-end compression. The general Maxwell model is found effective in describing the viscous-elastic mechanical property of corn stalk powder. Secondly, the force transition stage from closed-end to open-end compression is resolved. To reach a steady compression stage, the mechanical behaviours should be similar in every stroke. Thirdly, the pelleting stage in open-end compression is studied at different temperatures. This research provides some foundational work for bio-mass solidification, especially for corn stalk pellet production.