Pilot Plant for Thermal Conversion Processes
The research at the pilot plant focuses on thermal conversion and biomass pretreatment. Thermal conversion processes, such as pyrolysis and gasification, transform biomass into valuable products like biochar, bio-oils, and gases. Pyrolysis operates at 400–800°C in the absence of oxygen, producing biochar for carbon sequestration and soil improvement, while bio-oils and gases can be upgraded for fuel or chemical applications. Gasification, conducted at 700–1100°C with minimal oxygen, generates a gas rich in CO and H₂, suitable for energy production or fuel synthesis. Biomass pretreatment processes, including pelletization and torrefaction, enhance the handling, storage, and energy efficiency of biomass by increasing its energy density and usability across various applications.
Research and technology development are conducted in close cooperation with industry partners, utilizing shared setups. These include an updraft pyrolysis reactor for producing bio-oil and biochar (developed in collaboration with Stiesdal SkyClean) and a reactor for the gasification of plastic waste (in partnership with SemperCycel). Additionally, numerous smaller setups are used for research and teaching purposes. The pilot plant has its own metal workshop for the development, construction, and maintenance of experimental setups. It is also equipped with analytical instruments for gas analysis and nearby laboratory facilities for analyzing feedstock, as well as solid, liquid, and gaseous products.
