Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Yuhui Zhang, Xin Jia, Dengguo Lai, Zhennan Han, Xingfei Song, Chao Wang, Guangwen Xu
Summary: The impact of CO2 on the pyrolysis characteristics in reactor with internals was studied by conducting pyrolysis experiments of Yulin coal under N2 (inert) and CO2 (active) atmospheres in fixed-bed reactors for two types of pyrolysis, with and without internals. It was found that CO2 exhibited different effects on tar yield for the two types of pyrolysis, raising tar yield for pyrolysis in reactor without internals but lowering tar yield for that with internals. The tar yield under CO2 atmosphere with internals was 6.31 wt%, which was still 15.97% higher than that without internals at 1000 degrees C.
JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL AND APPLIED PYROLYSIS
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
C. Tsekos, D. de Voogt, W. de Jong, J. T. Padding
Summary: This study focuses on the numerical modelling and experimental validation of a novel indirectly heated bubbling fluidized bed steam reformer. The hydrodynamic behavior of the reactor was successfully simulated using the Two-Fluid Model approach and validated with experimental results. Different scenarios were considered, and it was observed that increasing the reactor diameter could improve the mixing and conversion efficiency.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
C. Tsekos, M. del Grosso, W. de Jong
Summary: This study presents a novel 50 kWth indirectly heated bubbling fluidized bed steam reformer technology, with experiments conducted to identify its main characteristics, showing promise in the field of biomass allothermal gasification.
FUEL PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Mara Del Grosso, Luis Cutz, Ursa Tiringer, Christos Tsekos, Peyman Taheri, Wiebren de Jong
Summary: Our work provides a thorough characterization of different biochars produced by a novel biomass gasifier, and investigates the effects of temperature and gasification agent on their physico-chemical properties. The results show that indirect gasification can produce high-quality biochars with high carbon content and desirable physical and chemical characteristics.
FUEL PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Frederico G. Fonseca, Ana P. Soares Dias
Summary: This study investigated the potential of almond shells as a biomass for catalytic pyrolysis bio-oil, and found that the use of catalysts can significantly increase the bio-oil yield and quality. Cenospheres, waste streams from coal power plants, showed great promise as low-cost catalysts for biomass pyrolysis processes.
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Wei Jiang, Dian Li, Siding Chen, Yuanyao Ye, Jianxiong Kang, Qian Tang, Yongzheng Ren, Dongqi Liu, Daosheng Li
Summary: This paper explores the use of rural solid waste for pyrolysis-gasification-combustion in a pilot plant scale, aiming to achieve sustainable management of waste in remote rural areas. Based on experimental data from pilot scale operation, it is found that the furnace temperature needs to be maintained at least at 600°C by analyzing the pyrolysis weight loss of the main combustibles in the waste. Furthermore, the effects of air supply method and ventilation rate on the performance of the pilot plant were studied. Results show that the active air supply method positively contributes to the performance of the pilot plant.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Andres Anca-Couce, Georg Archan, Markus Buchmayr, Michael Essl, Christoph Hochenauer, Robert Scharler
Summary: Fixed-bed biomass conversion with low primary air ratio and counter-current configuration shows potential for emission reduction and high feedstock flexibility. The validated 1D bed model accurately predicts temperatures and gas composition, while also investigating fuel flexibility in different scenarios.
Article
Thermodynamics
Xiwen Yao, Qinghua Liu, Zijian Kang, Zhixing An, Haodong Zhou, Kaili Xu
Summary: Introducing CO2 in the pyrolysis medium enhances CO2 sequestration and carbon conversion efficiency. Through experiments, the effects of introducing CO2 on the thermal conversion behaviors of biomass were studied. Results showed that introducing CO2 promoted carbon release and increased total weight loss during gasification. The release of CO, CO2, CH4, and H2 occurred in chronological order with prolonged pyrolysis time. Temperature had negligible effects on CO emissions, and high temperature favored H2 release while inhibiting CO2 emissions. The particle residence time had no significant influence on gas emissions or yields in a CO2-containing atmosphere.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Antti Pitkaoja, Jouni Ritvanen, Selina Hafner, Timo Hyppanen, Guenter Scheffknecht
Summary: Sorption-enhanced gasification is a promising technology for producing renewable feedstock gas. It operates at lower temperatures than conventional gasifiers, and modeling the decomposition products at different temperatures is crucial for understanding the SEG process. Developing a fuel model and conducting experiments to simulate the process can enhance our understanding of material balances in SEG reactors.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Simon Ascher, Ian Watson, Siming You
Summary: The use of machine learning in modeling biomass and waste gasification/pyrolysis has grown rapidly over the past two decades. However, a systematic review of these approaches and findings is lacking. Artificial neural networks have been the most commonly used method due to their ability to learn highly non-linear relationships. Machine learning models offer advantages over existing models in incorporating non-numerical parameters and generating multiple solutions for various input parameters. There is a need to emphasize model interpretability.
RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Yunji Pang, Chen Yang, Yuting Wu, Yisheng Chen, Huan Li
Summary: This study explores a method for steam gasification of biomass, and enhances the efficiency of biochar fixed bed gasification by adding catalysts. Experimental results show that adding CaO in counter-flow gasification can improve gasification intensity, while the addition of Fe2O3 can increase hydrogen production yield.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Galo Albor, Amin Mirkouei, Armando G. G. McDonald, Ethan Struhs, Farid Sotoudehnia
Summary: This study evaluates the potential of recycling polystyrene (PS) plastic wastes through a fixed bed slow pyrolysis reactor. The focus is on reactor design, conversion parameters, and reaction kinetics to improve process yield, activation energy, and chemical composition. Results show that PS decomposition starts within 2 minutes from all temperatures, with a total decomposition point of 97% at 475 degrees C in approximately 5 minutes. The average necessary activation energy is 191 kJ/mol.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Cesar Alvarez-Bermudez, Andres Anca-Couce, Sergio Chapela, Robert Scharler, Markus Buchmayr, Miguel Angel Gomez, Jacobo Porteiro
Summary: This study presents a three-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics study of a small-scale biomass combustion system operating with low primary air ratios. The model accurately predicts the temperature profiles, pyrolysis reactions, and the influence of fuel moisture content on the combustion process. It can accurately simulate biomass combustion systems with solid fuel beds consisting of numerous particles, while maintaining low computational requirements.
Article
Thermodynamics
Chunbao Zhou, Lei Chen, Chenglong Liu, Jun Wang, Xuyang Xing, Yang Liu, Yuanxiang Chen, Li Chao, Jianjun Dai, Yingwen Zhang, Mengyan Yu, Yanxin Yuan, Bang Yao, Yan Li
Summary: A novel 50 kg/h dual fluidized bed (DFB) was designed and constructed, and a pilot study was conducted to assess the advantages and feasibility of interconnected pyrolysis and gasification/activation technologies by DFB for biomass utilization and carbon capture. The findings showed that biochar from wood sawdust was the best carbon-based material matrix, and non-condensable pyrolysis gas from corn cob had the highest heating value and H2 content. Overall, DFB is a promising technology to achieve carbon negative economy and deserves further research in the future.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Lin Li, Shuai Tong, Lunbo Duan, Changsui Zhao, Zhipeng Shi
Summary: By comparing chars produced under different atmospheres, it was found that the pore structure and specific surface area of chars are significantly affected by the gasification environment, while the presence of chemical groups has a minor impact on the chars. The best gasification reactivities were obtained on the chars produced under 50%CO2/50%N2 and 50%H2O/50%N2 atmospheres, largely influenced by the porosity of the chars.
FUEL PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Yingna Du, Chen Huang, Wei Jiang, Qiangwei Yan, Yongfei Li, Gang Chen
Summary: In this study, anionic surfactants modified hydrotalcite was used as a flow improver for crude oil under low-temperature conditions. The modified hydrotalcite showed a significant viscosity reduction effect on crude oil. The mechanism of the modified hydrotalcite on viscosity and pour point of crude oil was explored through characterization and analysis of the modified hydrotalcite and oil samples.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Mohammad Saeid Rostami, Mohammad Mehdi Khodaei
Summary: In this study, a hybrid structure, MIL-53(Al)@MWCNT, was synthesized by combining MIL-53(Al) particles and -COOH functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT). The hybrid structure was then embedded in a polyethersulfone (PES) polymer matrix to prepare a mixed matrix membrane (MMM) for CO2/CH4 and CO2/N2 separation. The addition of MWCNTs prevented MIL-53(Al) aggregation, improved membrane mechanical properties, and enhanced gas separation efficiency.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Yunlong Li, Desheng Huang, Xiaomeng Dong, Daoyong Yang
Summary: This study develops theoretical and experimental techniques to determine the phase behavior and physical properties of DME/flue gas/water/heavy oil systems. Eight constant composition expansion (CCE) tests are conducted to obtain new experimental data. A thermodynamic model is used to accurately predict saturation pressure and swelling factors, as well as the phase boundaries of N2/heavy oil systems and DME/CO2/heavy oil systems, with high accuracy.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Morteza Afkhamipour, Ebad Seifi, Arash Esmaeili, Mohammad Shamsi, Tohid N. Borhani
Summary: Non-conventional amines are being researched worldwide to overcome the limitations of traditional amines like MEA and MDEA. Adequate process and thermodynamic models are crucial for understanding the applicability and performance of these amines in CO2 absorption, but studies on process modeling for these amines are limited. This study used rate-based modeling and Deshmukh-Mather method to model CO2 absorption by DETA solution in a packed column, validated the model with experimental data, and conducted a sensitivity analysis of mass transfer correlations. The study also compared the CO2 absorption efficiency of DETA solution with an ionic solvent [bmim]-[PF6] and highlighted the importance of finding optimum operational parameters for maximum absorption efficiency.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Arastoo Abdi, Mohamad Awarke, M. Reza Malayeri, Masoud Riazi
Summary: The utilization of smart water in EOR operations has gained attention, but more research is needed to understand the complex mechanisms involved. This study investigated the interfacial tension between smart water and crude oil, considering factors such as salt, pH, asphaltene type, and aged smart water. The results revealed that the hydration of ions in smart water plays a key role in its efficacy, with acidic and basic asphaltene acting as intrinsic surfactants. The pH also influenced the interfacial tension, and the aged smart water's interaction with crude oil depended on asphaltene type, salt, and salinity.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Dongao Zhu, Kun Zhu, Lixian Xu, Haiyan Huang, Jing He, Wenshuai Zhu, Huaming Li, Wei Jiang
Summary: In this study, cobalt-based metal-organic frameworks (Co-based MOFs) were used as supports and co-catalysts to confine the NHPI catalyst, solving the leaching issue. The NHPI@Co-MOF with carboxyl groups exhibited stronger acidity and facilitated the generation of active oxygen radicals O2•, resulting in enhanced catalytic activity. This research provides valuable insights into the selection of suitable organic linkers and broadens the research horizon of MOF hybrids in efficient oxidative desulfurization (ODS) applications.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Edwin G. Hoyos, Gloria Amo-Duodu, U. Gulsum Kiral, Laura Vargas-Estrada, Raquel Lebrero, Rail Munoz
Summary: This study investigated the impact of carbon-coated zero-valent nanoparticle concentration on photosynthetic biogas upgrading. The addition of nanoparticles significantly increased microalgae productivity and enhanced nitrogen and phosphorus assimilation. The presence of nanoparticles also improved the quality of biomethane produced.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Yao Xiao, Asma Leghari, Linfeng Liu, Fangchao Yu, Ming Gao, Lu Ding, Yu Yang, Xueli Chen, Xiaoyu Yan, Fuchen Wang
Summary: Iron is added as a flocculant in wastewater treatment and the hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of sludge produces wastewater containing Fe. This study investigates the effect of aqueous phase (AP) recycling on hydrochar properties, iron evolution and environmental assessment during HTC of sludge. The results show that AP recycling process improves the dewatering performance of hydrochar and facilitates the recovery of Fe from the liquid phase.
Article
Energy & Fuels
He Liang, Tao Wang, Zhenmin Luo, Jianliang Yu, Weizhai Yi, Fangming Cheng, Jingyu Zhao, Xingqing Yan, Jun Deng, Jihao Shi
Summary: This study investigated the influence of inhibitors (carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and heptafluoropropane) on the lower flammability limit of hydrogen and determined the critical inhibitory concentration needed for complete suppression. The impact of inhibitors on explosive characteristics was evaluated, and the inhibitory mechanism was analyzed with chemical kinetics. The results showed that with the increase of inhibitor quantity, the lower flammability limit of hydrogen also increased. The research findings can contribute to the safe utilization of hydrogen energy.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Zonghui Liu, Zhongze Zhang, Yali Zhou, Ziling Wang, Mingyang Du, Zhe Wen, Bing Yan, Qingxiang Ma, Na Liu, Bing Xue
Summary: In this study, high-performance solid catalysts based on phosphotungstic acid (HPW) supported on Zr-SBA-15 were synthesized and evaluated for the one-pot conversion of furfural (FUR) to γ-valerolactone (GVL). The catalysts were characterized using various techniques, and the ratio of HPW and Zr was found to significantly affect the selectivity of GVL. The HPW/Zr-SBA-15 (2-4-15) catalyst exhibited the highest GVL yield (83%) under optimized reaction conditions, and it was determined that a balance between Bronsted acid sites (BAS) and Lewis acid sites (LAS) was crucial for achieving higher catalytic performance. The reaction parameters and catalyst stability were also investigated.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Michael Stoehr, Stephan Ruoff, Bastian Rauch, Wolfgang Meier, Patrick Le Clercq
Summary: As part of the global energy transition, an experimental study was conducted to understand the effects of different fuel properties on droplet vaporization for various conventional and alternative fuels. The study utilized a flow channel to measure the evolution of droplet diameters over time and distance. The results revealed the temperature-dependent effects of physical properties, such as boiling point, liquid density, and enthalpy of vaporization, and showed the complex interactions of preferential vaporization and temperature-dependent influences of physical properties for multi-component fuels.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Yuan Zhuang, Ruikang Wu, Xinyan Wang, Rui Zhai, Changyong Gao
Summary: Through experimental validation and optimization of the chemical kinetic model, it was found that methanol can accelerate the oxidation reaction of ammonia, and methanol can be rapidly oxidized at high concentration. HO2 was found to generate a significant amount of OH radicals, facilitating the oxidation of methanol and ammonia. Rating: 7.5/10.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Radwan M. EL-Zohairy, Ahmed S. Attia, A. S. Huzayyin, Ahmed I. EL-Seesy
Summary: This paper presents a lab-scale experimental study on the impact of diethyl ether (DEE) as an additive to waste cooking oil biodiesel with Jet A-1 on combustion and emission features of a swirl-stabilized premixed flame. The addition of DEE to biodiesel significantly affects the flame temperature distribution and emissions. The W20D20 blend of DEE, biodiesel, and Jet A-1 shows similar flame temperature distribution to Jet A-1 and significantly reduces UHC, CO, and NOx emissions compared to Jet A-1.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Jiang Bian, Ziyuan Zhao, Yang Liu, Ran Cheng, Xuerui Zang, Xuewen Cao
Summary: This study presents a novel method for ammonia separation using supersonic flow and develops a mathematical model to investigate the condensation phenomenon. The results demonstrate that the L-P nucleation model accurately characterizes the nucleation process of ammonia at low temperatures. Numerical simulations also show that increasing pressure and concentration can enhance ammonia condensation efficiency.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Shiyuan Pan, Xiaodan Shi, Beibei Dong, Jan Skvaril, Haoran Zhang, Yongtu Liang, Hailong Li
Summary: Integrating CO2 capture with biomass-fired combined heat and power (bio-CHP) plants is a promising method for achieving negative emissions. This study develops a reliable data-driven model based on the Transformer architecture to predict the flowrate and CO2 concentration of flue gas in real time. The model validation shows high prediction accuracy, and the potential impact of meteorological parameters on model accuracy is assessed. The results demonstrate that the Transformer model outperforms other models and using near-infrared spectral data as input features improves the prediction accuracy.