Characterization of in-feed materials of wood pellet plants

The key objective of this research is to measure the quality of in-feed materials of wood pellet plants around the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta. This research will include the collection of in-feed materials from at least eight plants and a series of experimental measurements in in-feed properties such as moisture content, ash content, bulk density, particle size distribution, calorific value, and smoking temperature. Wood pellets are a crucial bioenergy component in the global transition away from fossil fuels and in replacing coal in power generation. The results in this project will facilitate the improvement in the safe operation of pellet plants and the enhancement of pellet qualities. A successful project will allow Canadian pellet plants to obtain insights on producing the highest quality products in the safest manner.

Faculty Supervisor:

Shahab Sokhansanj;Jim Lim

Student:

Partner:

Wood Pellet Association of Canada

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: