Inventory of Biomass suitable for conversion to biofuels/chemicals and most promising conversion options

Interest in adopting biomass conversion technologies to produce renewable biofuels and chemicals in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) is strong, fueled by recent closers in the pulp and paper sector, and, stemmed by availability of substantial forest biomass such s lo-quality wood chips in logging and sawmill operations. The NL Department of Natural Resources recognizes that although there is a substantial feedstock and opportunities, the nature of biomass generated in NL (quality, volumes, etc…) and the optimal conversion technologies for application in NL are largely unidentified. The feasibility of this industry in NL requires a provincial inventory of the various biomass and their accessibility and characteristics. Based on this data conversion options can be identified. This characterization is being done in a parallel study at MUN. in addition to the nature of the biomass, the existing infrastructure and end use of the fuel produced are all key factors in selection/design/optimization of conversion options. The overall objective of this project is to create an inventory of biomass and infrastructure associated with forestry in NL (from bark to pulp and paper waste) and based on this determine the most feasible conversion options(s).

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Kelly Hawbolt

Student:

Punyama Jayasinghe

Partner:

NL Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture

Discipline:

Forestry

Sector:

Alternative energy

University:

Memorial University of Newfoundland