Bio-char refineries: an accessible approach for the development of biomass-based industry

Submitted by Tom Miles on July 22, 2008 - 6:35pm

Publication Type:

Journal Article

Authors:

Stamatov, Venelin; Rocha, Jose Dilcio

Source:

International Journal of Global Energy Issues, Volume 27, p.217-230 (2007)

URL:

http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/ind/ijgei/2007/00000027/00000002/art00006http://dx.doi.org/10.1504/IJGEI.2007.013656

Keywords:

Energy, Environment and Sustainable Development, ENVIRONMENTAL JOURNALS

Abstract:

Being a by-product of the well-established charcoal industry, slow pyrolysis bio-oil can be an excellent, cost-effective and renewable liquid fuel. However, even in Brazil, a country with a very clean energy profile and large-scale charcoal production, bio-oil is not properly utilised yet. A simple upgrade of traditional methods of charcoal production can significantly increase liquid fuel output. The concept of a bio-char-refinery, introduced in this paper, for production of charcoal, activated carbon, liquid fuel and variety of chemicals presents a possible approach for the development of biomass-based industry. Successful implementation of this concept could provide significant amounts of fuel and chemicals able to enhance economic development and reduce the consumption of petroleum derived products.