Densification energy requirements, biomass

An important result of this study is the finding that the work and pressure of compression or extrusion can be reduced by a factor of about two by preheating the feedstock to 200-225 C before densification, This requires extra thermal energy for complete drying and to heat the biomass (heat capacity about 1.8 J/g-C) to the higher temperature however, these are offset by lower electrical power costs, lower equipment costs because of the lower pressure requirements, possibly reduced die wear due to improved lubricity of the biomass at increased temperatures, and increased fuel value due to complete water removal and prepyrolysis. These factors must be tested at the commercial scale before any conclusions can be drawn on the desirability of preheating feedstock. 

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