Testing, modeling, and simulation of a clean technology for converting forest residues to syngas and renewable natural gas

This proposed project will support our ongoing efforts in developing a novel two-stage fluidized bed gasifier for converting low-cost biomass residues to renewable natural gas in British Columbia to help the BC industry to meet the 2030 decarbonization target. Specifically, we will test and validate a new design of gasification reactor for producing low-tar syngas, verify a bauxite residue (f.k.a., red mud) derived catalyst for the removal of tar from gasification syngas to yield clean syngas, and evaluate and improve the commercial methanation catalyst for converting clean syngas to biomethane. The clean syngas can be directly used for displacing natural gas for industrial lime kiln operations, and the biomethane can be blended into the existing natural gas lines to lower the natural gas carbon content. Over the past 4 years, we have commissioned a pilot plant at UBC. In the proposed project we will carry out extensive tests to validate the new technology by generate performance data and develop a model to assist the scale-up, design and demonstration/commercialization of this new renewable energy technology using abundantly available forest residues in BC.

Faculty Supervisor:

Xiaotao Tony Bi;Naoko Ellis;Kevin Smith

Student:

Partner:

FortisBC Energy Inc

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Utilities

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: