Biomass is a renewable fuel that can be used to produce energy and reduce operating costs. For the CPI, it can also be used to produce chemicals. An added benefit is that use of biomass for fuel is considered carbon neutral.
While biomass is new to some industries, it is commonplace in the forest products industry, where wood waste has long provided steam and power. Independent power producers and utilities and are now joining the bandwagon, building new plants and converting coal fired plants to wood fuel, or co-burning 5-10% of coal in utility boilers.
Different from coal, biomass produces clean energy at substantially lower costs, because it has much lower sulfur content and lower fuel costs. Non-forest product firms are adding capacity to produce hot oil, hot gas for dryers, and chemicals (in particular, ethanol via acid or gasification routes), all from biomass, and most often from wood waste.
Here is a glimpse into a presentation that covers Biomass from the forest to stack by Thomas F. McGowan, president and founder of TMTS Associates, Inc., a firm that specializes in thermal systems and air pollution control. The presentation's emphasis is on the tried and true, with diagrams and photographs of actual equipment and installations. Guidance is provided on feasibility studies and costing, with the goal of supplying readers with the tools needed to choose and implement a biomass energy system.
Take a Peek:
If you're an AIChE member, you can view the complete webinar, which qualifies for Professional Development Hours (PDHs).