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Biomass: Combustion vs Gasification vs Pyrolysis

Combustion, gasification, and pyrolysis are three processes for converting biomass into other forms of energy. Combustion burns biomass with oxygen to produce heat, CO2, and water vapor. Gasification converts biomass into syngas using limited oxygen. Pyrolysis heats biomass without oxygen to produce biochar, bio-oil, and syngas. Each process has distinct characteristics and products that allow different applications based on energy and material needs.

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26 views2 pages

Biomass: Combustion vs Gasification vs Pyrolysis

Combustion, gasification, and pyrolysis are three processes for converting biomass into other forms of energy. Combustion burns biomass with oxygen to produce heat, CO2, and water vapor. Gasification converts biomass into syngas using limited oxygen. Pyrolysis heats biomass without oxygen to produce biochar, bio-oil, and syngas. Each process has distinct characteristics and products that allow different applications based on energy and material needs.

Uploaded by

priagolavinchent
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© © All Rights Reserved
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Assignment

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COMBUSTION, GASIFICATION AND


PYROLYSIS OF BIOMASS
Combustion - Combustion is a process that involves burning biomass in the presence of
oxygen. It is a rapid chemical reaction where biomass reacts with oxygen to produce heat,
carbon dioxide, water vapor, and other byproducts. Oxygen is plentiful in the combustion
process, and biomass undergoes complete oxidation, leading to the formation of carbon
dioxide and water. Typically used for direct heat generation or in power plants where
biomass is burned to produce steam, which then drives turbines connected to generators.
Example of combustion is fireplace (burning of wood). A masonry fireplace supplies radiant
energy to bring quick comfort to a cold room.

Gasification: Gasification is a thermochemical process that converts biomass into a gaseous


mixture called syngas (synthesis gas) in the absence of oxygen or with limited oxygen
supply. Due to the absence of oxygen, this prevents complete combustion and results in the
production of syngas. This process involves partial oxidation of biomass, resulting in the
production of gases like carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and methane. This syngas can be used
for various applications, including electricity generation and biofuel synthesis. These
processes are generally considered more environmentally friendly compared to combustion
because they can produce valuable byproducts like biochar and have the potential for carbon
sequestration. Example of gasification is converting agricultural residues or dedicated energy
crops, into syngas, and producing biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel.

Pyrolysis: Pyrolysis is a process that involves heating biomass in the absence of oxygen to
produce biochar, bio-oil, and syngas. Unlike gasification, pyrolysis is characterized by the
absence of a controlled supply of oxygen, leading to the partial decomposition of biomass
into different products. This results in the formation of biochar, bio-oil, and syngas. Each of
these products has different applications, such as soil improvement, biofuel production, and
energy generation. Example of pyrolysis is charcoal making.
In summary, combustion, gasification, and pyrolysis are different biomass conversion
processes with distinct characteristics and end products, allowing for a range of applications
based on specific energy or material needs. Each process has its advantages and
considerations in terms of efficiency, environmental impact, and product versatility.
HEATING VALUE OF BIOMASS

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