Energy parameters of miscanthus biomass pellets supplemented with copra meal in terms of energy consumption during the pressure agglomeration process

Abstract

The process of pelleting miscanthus biomass often encounters issues related to the low durability of the obtained pellets and high energy inputs. To solve these issues, the use of copra meal as a supplement is proposed. This paper presents the results of research on energy parameters of miscanthus biomass pellets supplemented with copra meal in terms of energy consumption in the pressure agglomeration process. As part of this research, the energy parameters of miscant-hus biomass, copra meal biomass, and their blends were characterized. Next, the raw materials were used for the production of pellets in the pressure agglomeration process. The investigations included proximate and ultimate analysis and estimation of heating values. Moreover, the total fat content, mechanical durability, kinetic strength, and bulk density were determined, and the energy consumption in the pelleting process was assessed. The results indicate that the energy consumption in the miscanthus biomass pelleting process can be substantially reduced by adding copra meal as a biocomponent. When the copra meal addition did not exceed 30%, the pellets exhibited over 95% durability, over 1200 kg·m−3 density, and over 417 kg·m−3 bulk density. Given the 44% reduction in energy consumption in the pellet production process and the energy efficiency of 4815 Wh·kg−1 determined in this study, copra meal may be an interesting material for use as an additive in the production of miscanthus biomass pellets.