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2nd-generation biofuels: IFP enhances its experimental facilities in the field of biofuels obtained from the thermochemical conversion of biomass (BtL - Biomass to liquid)
31 March 2008
IFP has just installed a new biomass roasting pilot unit at its Lyons site, IFP-Lyon. The unit will be used for research in the field of second-generation biofuel production via the thermochemical conversion (BtL – Biomass to liquid) of lignocellulose biomass (wood, straw). The first samples of biomass processed using this pilot unit will be wood chips.
Along with pyrolysis, roasting is one of two techniques being considered for the pre-treatment of biomass prior to its conversion to liquid fuel via gasification and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. Roasting consists in heating the biomass to a maximum temperature of 300°C, in the absence of oxygen and with nitrogen sweeping. The process concentrates the energy in the material and also makes it easier to mill for use in powder form. The advantage of the technique is that it reduces biomass milling costs.
IFP has been conducting research in the field of roasting as part of the ANR TORBIGAP project with several partners (CIRAD, CEA, ENGREF, UTC and CMI) but also in the context of other scientific partnerships with, for example, the École des Mines in Saint Etienne and the University of Pau. IFP already had access to a small-scale continuous pilot unit (5 kg/h) operated by IRMA, an SME. The new testing facilities, which are capable to roast several 20-kg batches of wood per day, further enhance IFP’s experimental capabilities and mean that it can now establish itself as a major player in the development of biofuel production processes.
Present in all biofuel production sectors (1st and 2nd-generation biofuels), IFP plays a central role in this field and is thus contributing to the diversification of energy sources for transport, which represents one of its strategic missions.
More information : Specific issue "IFP and Biofuels"
IFP is a world-class public-sector research and training center, aimed at developing the transport energies of the 21st century. It provides public players and industry with innovative solutions for a smooth transition to the energies and materials of tomorrow – more efficient, more economical, cleaner and sustainable.
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