Optimization of the torrefaction process for rubberwood

Abstract

Biomass torrefaction is a thermochemical pretreatment process at a temperature range of 200-3000C in an inert environment. Moisture and hemicellulose are released during the process resulting in an energy densified solid fuel. In this research, rubberwood is used to make torrefied wood inside a batch reactor. Temperature and the residence time are the two operating variables optimized. 250, 275 and 300 are considered as the experimentation temperatures kept at residence times of 30, 45 and 60min. A mass loss of 12% for rubberwood was observed. It can be observed that the higher heating value (HHV) increases with the increase of torrefaction conditions. From the experimentation results it can be concluded that the torrefaction conditions of 3000C, 60min gives the optimum results.