Issue 8

My sincere thanks to colleagues inside the project, and to our TA visitors. Let us keep in touch! Best regards, Andrew Martin

Inside this issue

BRISK Highlights 2011-2015 2-4

Work Package 6 Update 5,6

Work Package 7 Update 7

Case Studies 8-38

Publications 39

International Events 40-42

Contact the Editor 42

Partner Contact Information 43

The project has now officially come to a close. All of us involved can be proud of the accomplishments: offering Transnational Access (TA) to more than 200 individuals from 26 European countries, totalling 2000 experimental-day equivalents; advancing the state-of-art in 2nd generation biofuels through joint research activities; and promoting the topic at a variety of conferences and workshops. The executive team reported these and other achievements directly to our project officer last month, and he seemed convinced that the results have been positive. Check back with us now and then, as we will keep the project homepage active for at least another two years. Efforts remain in place for finding a successor to BRISK in Horizon 2020 or other programmes.

BRISK and beyond

Biofuels Research Infrastructure for Sharing Knowledge

October 2015

BRISK is funded by the European Commission Seventh Framework Programme (Capacities)

BRISK offered Transnational Access to 200 individuals from 26 European countries, totalling 2000 experimental day equivalents.

“All of us involved in

BRISK can be proud

of the

accomplishments.”

BRISK highlights 2011-2015

2

2011

Figure 1: The first BRISK ExCo meeting was held at KTH (the Royal Institute of Technology) (1); a tour was then given of the BRISK laboratories at KTH (2-4, 6); the first BRISK General Assembly meeting was attended by over 40 partners (5).

1 2

3 4 5

6

BRISK highlights 2011-2015 ...continued

3

2012

Figure 2: The second BRISK ExCo meeting was held at BIOENERGY 2020+ on the TU Graz campus in Austria. A tour of the laboratories was given by Thomas Brunner (1-3). The 2012 BRISK General Assembly meeting was held in Pisa, Italy (4).

1

2013

2

3

4

Figure 3: In June 2013, BRISK exhibited at the European Biomass Conference and Exhibition in Copenhagen, Denmark. During this three day event 132 people from 32 countries visited the stand (1). BRISK jointly sponsored this event with the European Energy Research Alliance (EERA) Bioenergy (3). BRISK’s third General Assembly meeting was held in Birmingham, UK (2).

1 2

3

BRISK highlights 2011-2015 ...continued

4

2014

Figure 4: In June 2014, BRISK and EERA Bioenergy jointly sponsored the European Biomass Conference and Exhibition which was held in Hamburg, Germany. Discussions about the BRISK Transnational Access initiative were held with over 130 visitors to the stand (1). In October, the BRISK General Assembly meeting was held at BIOENERGY 2020+/TU Graz in Austria (2).

1

2

2

Figure 5: BRISK’s final General Assembly meeting was held at TU Delft in the Netherlands on April 21st (1). On the following day BRISK hosted a public workshop entitled ‘Gasification, a versatile technology converting biomass to produce synfuels, heat and power (2). Following the workshop Wiebren de Jong gave a tour of TU Delft’s laboratories (3).

2015

2

1

3

1

Work Package 6 Feedstock Characterization

On April 21st 2015, at the final BRISK General Assembly in Delft, the partners of Work Package 6(WP6) discussed and evaluated the progress made so far and set the course for successfully finishing the work performed within WP6. The aim of WP6 has been a detailed characterization of selected new biomass feedstock, 2nd generation biofuels as well as residues from their production. This work represents a relevant step in the whole bioenergy utilization and furthermore, has aimed to support and enhance BRISK’s Transnational Access activities. To achieve these goals WP6 has had three main objectives: Improvement of existing and development of

new methods and protocols for the characterisation of new feedstocks, 2nd generation biofuels as well as residues from their production.

Further development and adaptation of reactors applied for method development. Most reactors applied have needed adaption in order to fit to the needs of the new materials as well as the framework conditions by the new processes. Additionally, completely new reactors have been constructed by some partners.

Generation of a database containing all relevant data achieved during method development and test.

For the reactors and methods further developed and improved, the Isothermal Plug Flow Reactor (IPFR) of IFRF shall be named. IFRF has developed new methods for the characterisation of the pyrolysis/gasification/combustion behaviour of different solid biomass materials based on an IPFR in combination with CFD simulations.

Figure 1: The Isothermal Plug Flow Reactor (IPFR) in Livorno, Italy.

5

Continued on next page

Temperature measured continuously

Preheating section

Coalfeeding system

K-tron

Coal

Electrical heating

system

Vertical reactor

O2 N2

Particle collection

system

Injection port for particle collection probe

N2

N2 Quenching part

N2

AIR

NG

O2

Cooling loops

Injection ports for

probes pressure

coal composition

temperature

Work Package 6 ...continued

An example for a completely new reactor is the single particle reactor of BIOENERGY 2020+. The single particle reactor enables the investigation of combustion and pyrolysis behaviour of a single fuel pellet/particle. Using these new reactors and methods, the WP6 partners conducted experiments using a set of six selected BRISK fuels which have been distributed among all partners. The results of these experiments have been collected in a database which now contains data from more

than 240 test runs. Based on the database, an evaluation and a validation of the new methods and reactors has been performed. These new proven technologies are now available to all partners of the project which represents an important step forward towards the characterization of new biomass materials. Besides these joint research activities, most of the reactors used within WP6 have been available for Transnational Access. Via this part of the BRISK project, more than 200 visitors used the unique possibility to visit BRISK partners, perform experiments with their equipment and gain valuable data and experience on biomass characterization. It has been interesting as well as challenging to perform the Transnational Access projects, where not only the visitors but also the plant operators such as myself, profited from the work performed. As WP6 leader I want to take the opportunity to thank all partners for their commitment to the work and for the successful research performed within WP6.

Figure 2: The single particle reactor (SPR) of BIOENERGY 2020+ in Austria.

6

Contact

Stefan Retschitzegger BIOENERGY 2020+ E: stefan.retschitzegger@ bioenergy2020.eu W: www.bioenergy2020.eu

Slip stream to ICP-MS to analysis FID, FTIR, GA

Air/N2

(preheated)

Work Package 7 Advanced Measurement Methods and Operational Procedures in Thermo-Chemical Biomass Conversion

A paper has been published by Work Package 7 members entitled ‘BRISK: Development of Advanced Measurement Methods and Operational Procedures in Thermochemical Biomass Conversion’. Particles generated in high temperature solid conversion processes may result in many different challenges; they can for instance deposit on heat transfer surfaces, clog pipes and sampling systems, or deteriorate the catalytic performance of catalysts for upgrading gasification product gas. Therefore, proper clean-up is generally required for any biomass-fuelled thermochemical conversion process. Tars are defined as hydrocarbon species with a molecular mass higher than benzene [1]. These species are in particular generated during gasification of biomass. They may cause several problems in process equipment situated downstream a gasifier, such as deposition on heat exchangers, clogging of pipes and sampling systems, coking deposition on catalysts, resulting in deterioration of the performance. Their presence in biomass-derived product gas often also results in a loss of chemical energy in the produced gas when not reutilized. Proper measurement of tars is therefore desired. Finally, a final class of potentially harmful components are the sulphur species. These species may poison catalyst surfaces, resulting in enhanced corrosion in downstream process equipment or could form sulphur oxide emissions. In many cases, it is necessary to reduce the gas content of these species down to sub-ppm levels to avoid for example catalyst poisoning in downstream syngas

upgrading processes [2]. Therefore, reliable and sensitive measurement techniques are needed. A final activity of WP7 is the description of gasifier practices and their enhancements, which are all addressed in this paper. Authors: Wiebren de Jong (TU Delft), Klas Engvall (KTH), Stefan Retschitzegger (BIOENERGY 2020+), Anders Brink (Åbo Akademi), Serge Biollaz (Paul Scherrer Institute), Andrew Martin (KTH). To view the whole paper click here. References [1] Neeft JPA, Knoef HAM, Onaji P (1999) Behaviour of tars in biomass gasification systems, Novem EWAB Programme report 9919 Novem, Maarn (the Netherlands), pp. 75. [2] Struis RPWJ (2009) Sulphur poisoning of Ni catalysts in the SNG production from biomass: A TPO/XPS/XAS study. Applied Catalysis A: General 362: 121-128

7

Contact

Wiebren de Jong TU Delft E: wiebren.dejong@tudelft.nl W: www.tudelft.nl/

Partner (country)

TU Delft (Netherlands) - Work Package 7 leader

Åbo Akademi (Finland) BIOENERGY 2020+ (Austria) CERTH (Greece)

CIUDEN (Spain) ECN (Netherlands) IFRF (Italy)

INERCO (Spain) KTH (Sweden) PSI (Switzerland)

TUBITAK (Turkey)

Table 1: Work Package 7 partners

Furthering my knowledge via BRISK Transnational Access

8 CASE STUDY – Amal Al-Rahbi

I am a PhD student at the School of Process and Chemical Engineering at the University of Leeds, UK. Biomass is a renewable energy source which can be converted via gasification to produce a syngas. However, the syngas contains high molecular weight tar which causes problems with downstream utilisation. Carbonaceous char can act as a catalyst to degrade the tar components to useable gases. A novel approach to this idea is to use chars which have been produced from the pyrolysis of waste materials. My research at the University of Leeds focuses on the development of materials to be used as a catalyst for the cracking of tar vapours during the pyrolysis-gasification of biomass. The BRISK initiative provided me with a great opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of char materials in cracking tar in the gas stream using a pilot scale gasifier known as PRAGA at the Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA). Applying to take part in BRISK Transnational Access was simple and it only took around three months from my first contact with BRISK for my application to be approved. After setting the research plan with my supervisor Professor Paul Williams, I found that ENEA would be the best place to test the char materials for tar reduction as they have suitable facilities and their work coincides with my research interests. It was a great opportunity for me to get a unique experience and strengthen my knowledge in this field. During my two week visit, the efficiency of char for tar reduction was tested using updraft gasification.

Figure 1: Updraft gasification reactor (PRAGA) at

ENEA, Italy.

Figure 2: Tar sampling points.

Amal Al-Rahbi, of the University of Leeds, UK, discusses how BRISK Transnational Access offered her the opportunity to broaden her PhD research via ENEA’s facilities in Italy.

The gasification process included a gasification reactor with a height of 2.4m and a diameter of 0.5m. The temperature inside the reactor is monitored using 11 thermocouples placed in a protective steel tube. The feedstock capacity of the reactor is 20-30kg/h. Samples of the gases and liquid formed as a result of the biomass gasification were collected and examined using various analytical techniques. The gaseous stream was sampled at the exit of the scrubber

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Furthering my knowledge via BRISK Transnational Access...continued

9 CASE STUDY – Amal Al-Rahbi

and analysed online using a Gas Chromatograph equipped with a Thermal Conductivity Detector (GC-TCD). The condensable matter formed during the gasification was measured offline using Gas Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), and a Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionisation Detector (GC-FID). It was found that the char material had effectively reduced most of the tar compounds. In summary, char produced from almond shell carbonisation looks promising in its ability to reduce most of the heavy compounds formed during the gasification process. Acknowledgment I am really fortunate to have had the opportunity to conduct research at ENEA. I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to the research team at ENEA: Dr. Francesco Zimbardi, Dr. Nadia Cerone, Antonio Villone, and Vito Valerio for helping me to carry out the experiments. I would also like to thank my supervisor at the University of Leeds, Professor Paul Williams, for his continuous help and encouragement.

Contact Francesco Zimbardi ENEA E: zimbardi@enea.it W: www.enea.it

Figure 3: Analysis the tar samples with help from ENEA’s team.

Figure 4: Amal Al-Rahbi with the ENEA team in Italy.

Applying chemometric methods to pyrolysis processes

10 CASE STUDY – Marcin Sajdak

I am an assistant professor at the Institute for Chemical Processing of Coal (ICPC) in Poland and a member of the Small-Scale Thermal Processing and Analysis Group. This team specialises in thermal conversion technologies (torrefaction, pyrolysis, gasification) for both solid fuels and waste. My main interest is to apply a wide range of chemometric methods to gain an in-depth understanding of the pyrolysis and co-pyrolysis processes of biomass and plastic waste. Chemometric methods allow the identification and description of important processing factors and parameters influencing the processed products obtained. It also develops new analytical procedures to identify the origin of materials (fuel) produced during particular thermal conversion processes. The growing amount of plastic waste produced globally every year is a major technological and scientific challenge. The research I conducted through BRISK at EBRI involved the qualitative

Marcin Sajdak of the Institute for Chemical Processing of Coal in Poland visited the European Bioenergy Research Institute (EBRI), Aston University in the UK. Below is a summary of his BRISK experience.

Figure 1: Preparation of a sample for Py-GC-MS

analysis.

Figure 2: Data processing.

To see more BRISK

case studies click

here.

analysis of products from thermal conversion of biomass and waste polymeric materials, with the chosen catalyst, which would help show the way they process. In addition, the char obtained during the biomass and plastic blends co-pyrolysis process was tested at a high temperature (1000oC) decomposition process using the Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry method (Py-GC-MS). The main objective of the BRISK research I

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Applying chemometric methods to pyrolysis processes…continued

11 CASE STUDY – Marcin Sajdak

Figure 3: Chromatograms from the pyrolytic decomposition of polypropylene-biomass chars prepared at 550°C and pyrolysed at 1000°C.

Contact

Tony Bridgwater Aston University E: a.v.bridgwater@aston.ac.uk W: www.aston.ac.uk/eas/research/groups/ebri/

carried out at Aston was to study catalytic co-pyrolysis of biomass, lignin and lignin-rich materials with waste polymers. For my research I used pine wood, beech wood, polypropylene, poly(ethylene terephthalate) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene as feedstock. In addition, char samples prepared at my home institute were analysed using analytical pyrolysis (Py-GC-MS). Multi-dimensional analytical data obtained from the Py-GC-MS analysis is used for comparative analysis using chemometric methods. This analysis allowed enough data to be obtained to propose a depolymerisation mechanism of waste polymeric materials, and to determine the effect of the used catalyst in the radical reactions involved. Participation in the BRISK project allowed me to become acquainted with very useful analytical techniques, which I plan to apply to my future research work.

Figure 4: In front of the EBRI building with Dr. Daniel Nowakowski.

Catalytic pyrolysis of acid pre-treated biomass

12 CASE STUDY – Elif Yaman

I am a PhD student at the Chemical Engineering Department of Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University, Turkey. When I heard about the BRISK initiative during the 21st European Biomass Conference and Exhibition in Copenhagen, Denmark, I looked on the BRISK website home page to find a host organisation. I decided to apply for a visit to the laboratories of the Centre for Research & Technology Hellas (CERTH) / Chemical Process and Energy Resources Institute (CPERI)Thessaloniki in Greece. I thought that a visit to these laboratories would be a good opportunity to contribute to my PhD study. As my PhD research involves catalyst preparation and characterisation, catalytic upgrading of pyrolysis vapour and characterisation of pyrolysis products, BRISK partner CERTH seemed to have the best type of equipment to suit my research needs. The application process was very simple and uncomplicated. Initially I contacted Dr Panopoulos, then Dr Iliopoulou guided me through the application process. We clarified the experimental procedure, chose the best dates for the visit, and

Elif Yaman of Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University in Turkey visited CERTH / CPERI in Greece through the BRISK initiative. Here she summarises her time spent at the laboratories in Thessaloniki.

then submitted the application form. The application process concluded within three months. During my visit to CERTH, the catalytic pyrolysis of acid pre-treated biomass was carried out by using different catalysts at the CPERI laboratories. The facility and safety information about laboratories was explained by the technical staff before commencing the experiments. The experimental campaign was supervised by Dr Kalogiannis. Firstly, catalysts were prepared and characterised at the CPERI laboratories. The catalytic pyrolysis experiments were performed at 500oC using a bench scale fixed bed tubular reactor made of stainless steel 316 (diameter 1.4cm, height 36cm) and heated by a three-zone furnace. The detailed schematic diagram of the experimental set-up is shown in Figure 3. As a young researcher, I was very pleased to be at CERTH. It was definitely a beneficial experience, both academically and personally. It was also invaluable to work with other groups, share knowledge and live in a foreign country for a while. I was also delighted to be at Thessaloniki, which is the second-largest city in Greece and the capital of Greek Macedonia. The city is fascinating with its history, monuments and beautiful coast.

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Figure 1: Left to right: Biomass used for experiments, catalysts used during the pyrolysis experiments, Elif with

members of CERTH.

Catalytic pyrolysis of acid pre-treated biomass...continued

13 CASE STUDY– Elif Yaman

Figure 2: Product yields in non-catalytic and catalytic pyrolysis of biomass.

Contact Kyriakos Panopoulos CERTH / CPERI E: panopoulos@certh.gr W: www.cperi.certh.gr

Figure 3: A schematic diagram of the bench scale fixed bed tubular reactor.

“As a young researcher I

was very pleased to be

at CERTH. It was

definitely a beneficial

experience, both

academically and

personally.”

Homogenization

N2 for piston control

N2 for piston control

N2

Furnace Zone 1

Furnace Zone 2

Furnace Zone 3

Insulation

Heating Resistance Zone 5

Glass receiver

Cooling bath

Piston

Biomass bed

Catalyst bed

Gaseous

Products

Vent

Filter

Bio-oil (liquid product)

Gas collection system

Organic—Aqueous Phase Separation

C, H, H2O

Gaseous Products GC Analysis Report

Organic Phase GC-MS Analysis Report

The productivity and quality of biomass from perennial crops

14 CASE STUDY – Malwina Snieg

I am a PhD student at the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn. My field is agronomy. My research focus is on the productivity and quality of biomass from perennial crops. The objective of my doctoral research is to determine the 26 genotypes of perennial energy crops and assess the properties acquired during thermo-chemical conversion of biomass and the differences caused by varied dates of collection. My supervisor, Professor dr hab. inż. Mariusz J. Stolarski, made me aware of the possibility of going abroad as part of BRISK Transnational Access. The aim of the BRISK project is to facilitate cooperation and research across project partner laboratories in the area of biofuels and thermal biomass conversion. I chose to research fast pyrolysis as it was a new area for me and I wanted to broaden the scope of my knowledge. After considering the partners with fast pyrolysis facilities, I chose to apply to the European Bioenergy Research Institute (EBRI) at Aston University, Birmingham, UK, as it seemed the best pan-European institute, with focus on aspects of biomass conversion and utilisation of products for renewable power, heat, transport fuels and chemicals. The main objective of my work was the characterisation of the pyrolytic behaviours (via fast pyrolysis) of three species of perennial energy crops: Willow (Salix viminalis), Virginia mallow (Sida hermaphrodita Rusby) and Miscanthus (Miscanthus x giganteus) using a fluidised bed fast pyrolysis reactor as well as performing a full characterisation of the pyrolysis products.

Malwina Śnieg of the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland, discusses how visiting the European Bioenergy Research Institute, Aston University, UK, via BRISK Transnational Access enabled her to branch out from her research area to enhance her scientific knowledge.

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Figure 1: Working with the 300g h-1 fluidised bed fast

pyrolysis reactor.

Figure 2: Loading the Thermo-Gravimetric Analyser

(TGA).

The BRISK application procedure was very simple, with all information available on the BRISK website (www.briskeu.com). I contacted the host organisation and we started planning the experiment and discussing the purpose and necessary duration of my visit. The EBRI staff were all very helpful: Emma Wylde booked my

The productivity and quality of biomass from perennial crops...continued

15 CASE STUDY– Malwina Snieg

Contact Tony Bridgwater Aston University E: a.v.bridgwater@aston.ac.uk W: www.aston.ac.uk/eas/research/groups/ebri

flights and accommodation, Dr. Daniel Nowakowski helped me with my application form and together he and Dr. Scott Banks were my supervisors and took the time to show me the facilities and equipment at EBRI. When everything was arranged I arrived for a two week visit to EBRI. During the first week I worked with Dr. Scott Banks to carry out three fast pyrolysis runs on a 300g h-1 fluidised bed fast pyrolysis reactor with online gas analysis of pyrolytic gases (using the micro-gas chromatograph (micro-GC)) and offline analysis of pyrolysis liquids (using gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS)). During the second week I focused on analysis of thermophysical properties using techniques such as thermogravimetric analysis to determine moisture, water content, ash content, etc. We also conducted further research on the pyrolysis gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (Py-GC/MS). Furthermore I was also given the opportunity to see the Pyroformer™ plant, which is designed to deliver energy and heat capable of powering buildings etc. My visit to the European Bioenergy Research Institute (EBRI) at Aston University allowed me to expand my understanding and knowledge of biomass fast pyrolysis processing and characterisation of pyrolysis products. I was fully satisfied with the process; it was an interesting experience and provided the opportunity for academic development. I would highly recommend the BRISK project to all those who wish to share knowledge and engage in research on biomass and bioenergy technology. Acknowledgment I would like to thank the staff at EBRI, particularly Dr. Daniel Nowakowski, Dr. Scott Banks, and the Director of EBRI Professor Tony Bridgwater.

Figure 3: Analysing data.

Figure 4: Malwina Śnieg with Dr. Daniel Nowakowski

and Dr. Scott Banks of the EBRI team.

The study of NOx reduction by means of SNCR

16 CASE STUDY – Carlos Luna

In Andalucía (Spain), there is great potential for the exploitation of several types of biomass sources for creating clean energy. There are a number of small companies in Andalucía already involved in the use of biomass resources to create fuel through combustion processes and it is in this area that I have developed my doctoral research into biofuels. My supervising professor suggested the possibility of undertaking a BRISK project on the basis of the programme’s corresponding fields of interest. This seemed a good opportunity to develop both professionally and personally and I therefore decided to apply to visit BIOENERGY 2020+ (BE2020)/TU Graz (Austria). These institutions were not only working with biomass but also offered the opportunity to use interesting devices and research approaches, alongside the chance to improve my German language skills. I approached the institutions and we developed a project plan regarding the study of NOx reduction by means of Selective Non Catalytic Reduction (SNCR) in a biomass furnace. The objective of this project was to find the means to improve the

Carlos Luna of Cordoba University in Spain visits BIOENERGY 2020+ on the site of TU Graz in Austria in order to further his research into biofuels.

possibilities for reduction of NOx during biomass combustion in small scale (communal) biomass boilers by means of SNCR methods, with consideration also of the basics of optimising the layout for small scale SNCR systems. To this end, urea was injected in the hot secondary reaction zone of the biomass furnace. When beginning the work I was initially surprised at the size of the devices available to carry out the experimental work, as this was my first experience of pilot plant scale equipment as opposed to the usual lab scale equipment at my own institution. During the first week of the project we tested the setup, the main part of which was a drop tube furnace to which the measurement devices (Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) and Flue Gas Analyser) and the injection system for urea had been connected. The urea injection was conducted with a HPLC pump (see Figure 3). Once this had been done, the first NOx reduction tests with the system were performed before the end of the first week. In the following weeks a comprehensive testing campaign on NOx reduction was performed. In order to investigate the applicability of the SNCR system in biomass furnaces we performed several tests of the NOx reduction behaviour at different flue gas temperatures (825-1150°C) in several urea flow rates (0.8, 1 and 1.5 ml/min), in order to determine the optimal NOx reduction conditions. Therefore our last week was spent conducting

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Figure 2: Drop tube furnace at BIOENERGY 2020+ on

the TU Graz campus.

Figure 1: TU Graz campus.

The study of NOx reduction by means of SNCR...continued

17 CASE STUDY– Carlos Luna

Figure 3: Schematic of the drop tube furnace with urea injection point and measurement devices (FTIR, Flue Gas Analyzer).

Figure 4: Measurement data.

The study of NOx reduction by means of SNCR...continued

18 CASE STUDY– Carlos Luna

Figure 5: NOx reduction efficiency temperature window.

analysis of our main results and conclusions. These are summarised in Figure 5, where the diagram shows the NOx reduction efficiency curve. This shows that the NOx concentration can be reduced significantly while injecting different urea flows between the temperature windows. Optimum results occur at 1.5 ml/min urea flow but this leads to a high ammonia slip as a side effect. I would like to thank my hosts, Stefan Retschitzegger, Peter Sommersacher and Dietmar Klonner (Figure 6) who were kind and helpful throughout my visit, both in assisting me in the experiments and showing me around the city. They made me feel welcome and at home, and as well as the scientific and academic experience, my visit allowed me to make some good friends. Figure 6: With some of the staff at BIOENERGY

2020+ / TU Graz.

Contact Stefan Retschitzegger BIOENERGY 2020+ E: stefan.retschitzegger@bioenergy2020.eu W: www.bioenergy2020.eu

Kinetic parameters of grain residue and sugar beet chips

19 CASE STUDY – Angelika Lyczkowska

At the beginning of August 2015 I visited the Energy Engineering and Technology Division of Wroclaw University of Technology (WROC) located in the Lower Silesian region of Poland. My visit lasted two weeks, including ten working days. The purpose of my visit was to investigate pyrolysis, combustion and gasification behaviour of two types of biomass on thermogravimetric analysis apparatus equipped for differential scanning calorimetry (TGA/DSC). For my PhD thesis I needed extra experiments to obtain kinetic parameters of both types of biomass: grain

Angelika Lyczkowska of Clausthal University of Technology, Germany, discusses how a BRISK Transnational Access visit to Wroclaw University of Technology in Poland allowed her to conduct experiments that enhanced her PhD thesis.

residue and sugar beet chips. The BRISK programme was the perfect opportunity to achieve this aim. Experiments were carried out at temperatures of up to 900°C and heating rates of up to 30°C/min. Depending on the experiment being performed, different gases (N2, O2) and/or mixtures of them were used. The TGA experiments provided data detailing sample weight loss as a function of time and temperature for each experimental run (pyrolysis, oxidation). Determining kinetic parameters is based simply on adjusting the chosen mathematical model for the experimental data. Two models were chosen for mathematical fitting in this case: the Single Step Model for pyrolysis experiments and the Homogeneous Rate Model for char combustion and gasification. The application process to undertake a BRISK project was quick and easy. Before sending the application, I got in contact with the host organisation in order to plan the experimental part of my visit and my stay in Wroclaw city. Dr Czajka was open to new experimental challenges and was very helpful as I prepared the proposal. After I submitted my application form in April, I received approval for my project in less than a month.

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Figure 2: TGA/DSC equipment in the laboratory at

Wroclaw University of Technology.

Figure 1: Pulverised biomass samples (Top: Grain

residue. Bottom: Sugar beet) used for TGA

measurements.

Kinetic parameters of grain residue and sugar beet chips...continued

20 CASE STUDY– Angelika Lyczkowska

Figure 3: Conducting experiments using the TGA.

Contact Wieslaw Rybak Wroclaw University of Technology E: wieslaw.rybak@pwr.wroc.pl W: www.portal.pwr.wroc.pl

Visiting Wroclaw was a pleasant and interesting experience. On the first day of my visit I was warmly welcomed by the whole team. Dr Czajka showed me around the lab and other nearby research stations. It was fascinating to see how experimental work is conducted at another university in another country. I would like to convey my gratitude to Dr Czajka and Anna Kisiela, who were not only an invaluable source of knowledge and experience but who also provided me with a friendly and pleasant working environment for the duration of my visit to the university. Thanks to their patience and encouragement I learnt how to operate the equipment and analyse its results myself. I’m grateful that I had this opportunity to learn new experimental techniques and to improve my skills in this field of research. I have benefited from my visit not only scientifically, but also personally. I had the pleasure of exchanging knowledge and experience with other researchers and in my free time, of visiting the beautiful district of Upper Silesia.

Figure 4: With Anna Kisiela of Wroclaw University of Technology.

Biochar production from agro-forestry biomass

21 CASE STUDY – Andrea Colantoni

Andrea Colantoni graduated in Forestry MSc at the University of Tuscia, Italy in 2000. He then became Doctor of Philosophy in Agricultural Mechanisation with the thesis: ‘Study and development of innovative technologies for small and medium companies for the use of renewable energy sources’. In 2010, he became a researcher at Tuscia University in the Department of Agricultural and Forestry scieNcEs (D.A.F.N.E.) – Tuscia University. Conducting pyrolysis tests on batches of agro-forestry biomass enables studies of the components produced and the variables that influence biochar production. During the pyrolysis process, part of the biomass is converted into pyrolysis gas, and the other part into solid charcoal residues (biochar). The potential benefits for the environment are the reduction and sequestration of CO2 emission. It also provides farmers with additional income through the generation of electric power. Biochar is produced in higher yields by pyrolysis compared to gasification. Biochar is a ‘porous carbonaceous solid’ produced by thermochemical conversion of organic materials in an oxygen depleted atmosphere, which has physiochemical properties suitable for the safe and long-term storage of carbon in the environment and, potentially, soil improvement.

Andrea Colantoni of the University of Tuscia in Viterbo, Italy visited BIOENERGY 2020+ in Graz, Austria. Here is a summary of the experiments he conducted during his visit. His study was able to demonstrate the capacity to produce biochar using the residual biomass derived from agro-forestry biomass.

Continued on next page

Figure 1: Batch pyrolysis reactor.

a

b

Figure 2: Sample of grapevine (a) and sunflower husk

pellets (b).

Biochar production from agro-forestry biomass...continued

22 CASE STUDY– Andrea Colantoni

Contact Stefan Retschitzegger BIOENERGY 2020+ E: stefan.retschitzegger@bioenergy2020.eu W: www.bioenergy2020.eu

The objective of my BRISK visit to BIOENERGY 2020+ in Graz, Austria was to improve the recognition that biochar gained from agro-forestry biomass residual (like grapevine, sunflower husks) has alternative uses, through chemical characterisations. Our study was able to demonstrate the capacity to produce biochar using the residual biomass derived from agro-forestry biomass. Results of this experiment have shown that the biochar obtained is characterized by good chemical and physical characteristics for an agronomic use or an energetic use. Regarding this last mentioned aspect it is important to underline that the lower heating value and carbon content are similar to lignite's values and it means that biochar can be used, as a coal, in thermo-chemical processes to energy production. Regarding its use as a fertilizer it is important to highlight that this biochar has a good impact on soil characteristics with an increase in the soil's water retention capacity and a reduction of soil acidity in consequence of the alkaline pH value. In addition the agronomic-use tests of biochar have shown an absence of negative impact on crop growth. With other specific analysis it will be possible to determine the additional characteristics necessary for the insertion of biochar into the list of soil amendments for agricultural use.

Figure 3: Grapevine sample used for tests.

Acknowledgement l would like to thank the BRISK team for making my visit so fruitful and pleasant, especially Nikola Evic for the time and effort dedicated to help me with queries I had during my work and stay at TU Graz. I would also like to thank Stefan Retschitzegger for his administrative support and coordination. My experience of the BRISK project was certainly an inspiring one, as it was the trigger that convinced me to continue in the research field and to carry on my studies of biochar and thermo-chemical processes.

“My experience of the

BRISK project was certainly

an inspiring one, as it was

the trigger that convinced

me to continue in the

research field and to carry

on my studies of biochar

and thermochemical

processes.”

Thermochemical conversion of cardoon and sepiolite

23 CASE STUDY– Daniel Serrano

Daniel Serrano García

of Carlos III University of Madrid, Spain visited the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Switzerland through the BRISK initiative. Here he looks back on his experiences of utilizing PSI’s gasification facilities.

Figure 1: Running the sepiolite attrition test.

Figure 2: Analysing particle size distribution after

attrition test.

Continued on next page

During my visit to the University of Limerick in Ireland, I heard about the BRISK Transnational Access (TA) programme and I realized that it was a really good opportunity I could not ignore. I am a PhD student in the Energy System Engineering Research Group (ISE) at the Carlos III University of Madrid (UC3M). Our research areas range from fluidization, gasification and pyrolysis, and heat and mass transfer to solar energy. My research is focused on the thermochemical conversion of cardoon (a thistle-like plant in the sunflower family) for its application as an energy crop for fluidized bed gasifiers. I decided to go to the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Switzerland for my BRISK TA. There I was able to work with a fluidized bed where I investigated the effect of cardoon and the mineral sepiolite during gasification. The fact that their facility was quite similar to the one I am using during my PhD made PSI the best option for me. This way I could compare results from both facilities. The possibility of getting and analyzing tar samples was also a valuable aspect for consideration. Due to Dr. Serge Biollaz’s busy agenda, it took me a little time to reach him. After a phone discussion the proposal was fulfilled and my application was sent for approval. After two months, I was accepted and I started to prepare for my visit to PSI. It was not possible to stay at PSI’s guesthouse but they provided me with useful information to easily find alternative accommodation. During the weeks before my arrival, I held various phone and web meetings with Dr. Serge Biollaz and PSI technicians to

Thermochemical conversion of cardoon and sepiolite...continued

24 CASE STUDY – Daniel Serrano

finalise the details of the experiments. The proposed experimental plan was to compare the effect of cardoon and sepiolite with Al2O3 and wood pellets under gasification conditions. During the first week I worked with a cold fluidized bed testing the attrition and elutriation behaviour of sepiolite during a 100 hour test. Meanwhile, the feedstock was milled and conditioned for the feeding system which was tested for calibration. After that the facility was prepared to perform the gasification tests. The intended experimental plan could not be satisfied due to operational problems with the feeding system and technician availability, and cardoon could not be finally tested. Nevertheless, two experiments were carried out using Al2O3 and sepiolite as bed materials and wood pellets as feedstock. For this reason, further experiments between PSI and UC3M will be

Continued on next page

Figure 3: Martin Künstle preparing the facility for

gasification experiments.

Figure 4: Gas and tar sampling.

To see more BRISK

case studies click

here.

Thermochemical conversion of cardoon and sepiolite...continued

25 CASE STUDY – Daniel Serrano

performed to finish this research. I have conflicting feelings about BRISK TA. I am pretty sad that BRISK TA has now finished and is no longer open to applications. However, I am really happy to have been part of this project which I consider a great opportunity to work and learn from very experienced people in the field of biomass utilization. In my case, I have got a very positive experience where I have learnt a different way of thinking and working. BRISK TA has given me the chance to be in contact with a research centre like PSI and collaborate and share results together now and in future. Acknowledgement I appreciate very much the effort made by PSI people: Dr. Serge Biollaz, Sergio García, Martin Künstle and Jörg Scheebeli during my visit, always answering my questions and giving me useful advice for the future.

Figure 5: Tar samples.

“I am really happy to

have been part of

BRISK. It provided me

with a great opportunity

to work and learn from

very experienced people

in the field of biomass

utilization.”

Contact Serge Biollaz Paul Scherrer Institute E: serge.biollaz@psi.ch W: www.psi.ch

Hydrothermal Liquefaction of residual algal biomass for producing bio-oil and char

26 CASE STUDY – Simona Intini

I have a PhD in Marine Ecology and since 2014 I have been a post-doc fellow at CNR-ISMAR and associated with the University of Foggia, both located in Italy. At the latter, I am working at the STAR*Facility Centre on ‘algal biorefinery’, which is one of the key topics at this Research Centre of Excellence. The idea is to valorise the algal biomass (micro and macroalgae), growth with different technologies

Simona Intini of the University of Foggia in Italy visited the European Bioenergy Research Institute (EBRI) at Aston University through the BRISK initiative. Here she describes the experiments that she undertook including Hydrothermal Liquefaction (HTL) of residual algal biomass.

of photobioreactors, by means of extraction of high value compounds (for pharmaceutic, cosmetic end nutraceutic applications), platform molecules, and, at the end of the process, fuels. Algae are considered to be promising candidates for fuel and chemicals production due to their high photosynthetic efficiency and biomass/lipids productivity. Several interesting results have already been achieved in this topic at the STAR*Facility Centre. The BRISK initiative however provided the opportunity to test a different Thermochemical Conversion; the Hydrothermal Liquefaction (HTL) of residual algal biomass for producing bio-oil and char. This research activity was performed at the European Biomass Research Institute (EBRI), Aston University, Birmingham, UK. The application procedure for visiting EBRI was very simple and the experimental planning was developed with the kind advice of Dr Daniel J. Nowakowski. The aim of the visit was to valorise the algal residue by means of HTL following a ‘biorefinery’ approach (see Figure 1).

Three algal residues were tested: 1) Red macroalgae Gracilaria gracilis after phycobiliproteins extraction; 2) Microalgae Dunaliella tertiolecta and 3) Chlorella sorokiniana after extraction of lipids. Chemical physical characterisation (Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Proximate and Ultimate Analysis, Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (Py-GC-MS)) of algal biomass was performed before the thermochemical conversion (see Figure 2).

Continued on next page

Figure 1: Conceptual scheme for an algae biorefinery.

Hydrothermal Liquefaction of residual algal biomass for producing bio-oil and char ...continued

27 CASE STUDY– Simona Intini

Algal raw biomass and residues were tested for Hydrothermal Liquefaction (HTL) under different experimental conditions: Solvent / biomass ratio 10 / 1; Solvent: 100% water; water and co-solvent (Ethanol) 50% v/v; Temperature: 250°C; Atmosphere: N2 (50 bar); H2 (50 bar). The reaction was performed in a stainless steel autoclave of 20ml capacity. The autoclave was heated with an external furnace and the temperature was measured with a thermocouple (see Figure 3a). In a typical run, the biomass (approximately 0.75g), solvent or co-solvent were fed into the reactor, then sealed and pressurised with N2 to 50 bar or with H2 to 50 bar at room temperature to ensure that the aqueous phase would remain liquid at high temperatures and to minimise the transport of vapour from the reactor into the connecting tube. Initially, the temperature was set at 125°C and then gradually heated up to 250°C. This temperature was kept for two hours under stirring. At the end of the treatment, the reaction mixture (biooil-biochar-water) was collected, separated and analysed (see Figures 3b and 4). Particular attention was devoted to chemical composition of bio-oil. The added value of this research was the integrated approach between algal production, characterisation and extraction of high value compounds (phycobiliproteins, carotenoids, phytosterols, antioxidants, platform compounds) and the valorisation of the solid residue considered not a waste but a raw material for bio-oil and char production. Thermochemical (HTL) conversion can represent an intriguing strategy for a cascading valorisation of the whole algal biomass. The scientific results of the proposed activity will contribute in moving forward the boundary of knowledge on the technological application of algae.

Continued on next page

Figure 3a: (left) Stainless steel autoclave used for Hydrothermal Liquefaction (HTL); Figure 3b: (right) End of the reaction and opening of the autoclave.

Figure 4: Reaction mixture: water phase, bio-oil and solid residue (char).

Figure 2: Pyrolysis – Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC-MS).

Hydrothermal Liquefaction of residual algal biomass....continued

28 CASE STUDY– Simona Intini

Contact Tony Bridgwater Aston University E: a.v.bridgwater@aston.ac.uk W: www.aston.ac.uk/ebri

Figure 6: Simona Intini (centre) pictured with Dr Matteo Francavilla of the University of Foggia, Italy (left), and Dr Daniel Nowakowski of Aston University, UK (right).

Visiting EBRI at Aston through the BRISK Transnational Access programme was for me an exciting experience. BRISK is definitely a useful and fruitful research initiative promoting cooperation and transfer of knowledge between researchers interested in biomass valorisation. I want to acknowledge my BRISK tutor at EBRI, Dr Daniel Nowakowski for his kind support. Finally, I want to thank my supervisor Dr Matteo Francavilla of the University of Foggia for his guidance in the application process.

Figure 5: Conducting experiments at one of EBRI’s laboratories at Aston University.

“Visiting EBRI at Aston

through the BRISK

Transnational Access

programme was for

me an exciting

experience.”

Testing the gasification efficiency of hazelnut shells

29 CASE STUDY – Melih Soner Çeliktaş

I was informed about the BRISK project by Professor Hayati Olgun of Ege University, and felt the need to look for an institute where I could perform gasification of waste biomass which would coincide with the tasks in an on-going project that I was involved in. I finally decided to go to the Italian national agency for new technologies, energy and sustainable economic development (ENEA) through the BRISK Transnational Access programme. The aim was to test the gasification efficiency of hazelnut shells in a fixed bed (updraft) gasifier and obtain a hydrogen rich gas which could be used as a potential feedstock for Fischer-Tropsch processes and fuel cell. The reason we chose hazelnut shells is due to the fact that Turkey produces 625,000 tonnes of hazelnuts every year, accounting for approximately 75% of worldwide production which in turn yields high amounts of lignocellulosic bio-waste. Indeed, the woody shell constitutes approximately 55% of the nut weight and is currently used as a feedstock in low efficient burners. When I reached the facility in May 2015, I was introduced to the working principles of various processes by Dr. Francesco Zimbardi and the experimental set-ups were prepared in advance by the experienced team at the institute. Investigations of the updraft biomass gasification process were performed at two facilities that run together at the ENEA Trisaia Research Centre; PRAGA and HENRY.

The PRAGA plant worked on the updraft gasification principle with a capacity of 150 kWth,

Melih Soner Çeliktaş of the Ege University Solar Energy Institute in Izmir, Turkey reflects back on his visit to BRISK partner ENEA in Italy. ENEA is the Italian national agency for new technologies, energy and sustainable economic development.

Continued on next page

Figure 1: Updraft fixed bed gasifier control room.

Figure 2: Gasification material (hazelnut).

Testing the gasification efficiency of hazelnut shells...continued

30 CASE STUDY– Melih Soner Çeliktaş

whereas HENRY was the hydrogen enrichment section, capable of converting up to 20 Nm3/h of the produced gas to hydrogen rich gas. During the experimental trials, Dr. Nadia Cerone provided tremendous support and we have evaluated the influence of the air/steam-fuel ratio variation on the optimal temperature in the main reaction zones and product quality, the load on the capacity of the gasifier, the pressure drop across the bed, along with the composition of the gaseous products, quantity and quality of tars and ash as main process parameters. At the end of the visit, the ENEA team and I discussed the results obtained while enjoying the Turkish figs and Italian coffee. As for the outcomes of this visit - the established scientific and personal contacts will help us to develop bilateral projects and mobility in the near future. We have already started to work on our results in order to prepare a publication in a Science Citation Index (SCI) journal. Finally, I would like to convey my special thanks to the coordinators of the BRISK Transnational Access project (KTH in Sweden), and the friendly ENEA research team who were highly professional and helpful at all times.

Figure 3: Monitoring of gasification.

Figure 4: Running an experiment on the updraft fixed

bed gasifier.

Figure 5: The gasification team.

Contact Francesco Zimbardi ENEA E: zimbardi@enea.it W: www.enea.it

Production yields of biomass in the pyrolysis catalytic-gasification process

31 CASE STUDY – Yeshui Zhang

I am a PhD student at the Energy Research Institute at the University of Leeds, UK. When I first heard about the BRISK project I started to plan a visit as I thought it provided me with a good opportunity to conduct further research. On reviewing the various BRISK partners, I decided to visit KTH (Royal Institute of Technology) in Stockholm, Sweden at the School of Industrial Engineering and Management in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. I visited KTH at the end of July 2015 for ten days and had a great research experience in their laboratory within the Division of Energy and Furnace Technology.

Yeshui Zhang of the University of Leeds in the UK, visited KTH in Stockholm, Sweden through the BRISK Transnational Access initiative. Here she looks back on her experience and the benefits of the BRISK programme to her PhD research.

The purpose of my visit was to investigate the production yields of biomass in the pyrolysis catalytic-gasification process by using the semi-bath type cylinder reactor. The reactor consists of a cylinder furnace which can be heated up to 1000oC and can be used either for the pyrolysis process or for gasification. The biomass and 10% Ni/SiO2 catalyst are placed inside of the cylinder tube on a metallic grid and then it is connected with the gas inlet. Gas washing bottles were connected at the outlet of the reactor for collecting

the bio-oil and the tar, and the external bottle collected the gases produced. The gaseous productions were analysed by the Micro Gas Chromatography Analyser. The tar and carbon yields were collected and weighed for mass balance calculation after the reactor cooled down. The experimental conditions changed from 500oC to 800oC with 100oC intervals, and the sample to catalyst ratio was constant at 4:1. The results of the experiments helped to better understand how the temperatures affect the gaseous, tar, carbon yields and residue of the biomass from the pyrolysis catalytic-gasification process.

Continued on next page

Figure 1: Production of biomass pyrolysis catalytic-gasification.

Figure 2: The KTH campus in Stockholm, Sweden.

500oC 600oC 700oC 800oC

Production yields of biomass ...continued

32 CASE STUDY– Yeshui Zhang

Contact Andrew Martin KTH E: andrew.martin@energy.kth.se W: www.kth.se

The research I conducted at KTH provided an invaluable, inspirational addition to my recent research at the University of Leeds where I used a two-stage fixed bed reactor. Thanks to the excellent support from Professor Weihong Yang, Panagiotis Evangelopoulos and Marcin Wojkiewicz, I was able to finish all of the expected experiments in a short period of time. This experience enabled me to understand production under different temperature conditions and in different types of reactors. The BRISK project is very popular and has attracted much researcher interest. This has resulted in many host organizations receiving a high number of applications. The first time I applied to BRISK was to another organization which was totally full. However they suggested that I apply to KTH which had more suitable facilities for my research and also had vacancies for BRISK researchers. I am really appreciative of this as it meant that I did not lose the opportunity to carry out research at the time that I required. Although the results I obtained from KTH form part of my PhD thesis, they could also play an invaluable part in my future work experience. This successful cooperation between the University of Leeds and KTH could lead the way to further joint researcher collaborations.

Figure 3: Yeshui Zhang and KTH group members.

Figure 4: The semi-bath type cylinder reactor.

Acknowledgements I want to express my deep gratitude to my hosts Professor Weihong Yang and the group members Panagiotis Evangelopoulos and Marcin Wojkiewicz who supported me a lot during the setup of the experiments. I would also like to thank my supervisors at the University of Leeds; Professor Paul Williams and Dr Chunfei Wu, plus my colleague Dr Mohamad Anas Nahil for their continuous help and encouragement.

Lignocellulosic biomass conversion via catalytic pyrolysis

33 CASE STUDY – Elif Saracoglu

I study as a graduate student at the Chemical Engineering Department of Anadolu University, Turkey, where a substantial part of my research relates to lignocellulosic biomass conversion via catalytic pyrolysis. My visit to the Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH) in Greece to use the laboratories at its Chemical Process and Energy Resources Institute (CPERI) was a valuable opportunity and experience that enhanced my Masters thesis.

Elif Saracoglu of Anadolu University, Turkey, discusses the benefits of BRISK Transnational Access to her Masters thesis.

The aim of my visit was to investigate the effect of acid pre-treatment and modified catalysts on the yield and compositions of bio-oil obtained from the fast pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass using CPERI’s bench-scale unit with a fixed bed reactor. Preparation and characterisation methods of catalysts and their use in biomass conversion experiments were crucial topics for my study. CPERI provided the opportunity to investigate these areas.

Continued on next page

Figure 1: Graph detailing properties of the bio-oil product used in the experiments.

Figure 2: Sugar beet feedstock.

Lignocellulosic biomass conversion via catalytic pyrolysis...continued

34 CASE STUDY– Elif Saracoglu

Untreated and acid treated sugar beet pulp samples brought with me from Turkey were used as biomass feedstock (see Figure 2). İnitially, the thermal pyrolysis experiments using the biomass samples were conducted at 500°C using a bench scale fixed bed tubular reactor made of stainless steel 316 and heated by a 3-zone furnace at the CERTH/CPERI laboratories. Figure 4 is a detailed schematic diagram of the experimental set-up. After looking at the bio-oil yields, elemental analysis and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS ), we decided to use sulphuric acid treated samples for the catalytic pyrolysis experiments. The aim was to gain an Figure 3: Catalysts used in the experiments.

Continued on next page

Figure 4: Experimental set up at CPERI.

Homogenization

N2 for piston control

N2 for piston control

N2

Furnace Zone 1

Furnace Zone 2

Furnace Zone 3

Insulation

Heating Resistance

Zone 5

Glass receiver

Cooling bath

Piston

Biomass bed

Catalyst bed

Gaseous

Products

Vent

Filter

Bio-oil (liquid product)

Gas collection system

Organic—Aqueous Phase Separation

C, H, H2O

Gaseous Products GC Analysis Report

Organic Phase GC-MS Analysis Report

Lignocellulosic biomass conversion via catalytic pyrolysis...continued

35 CASE STUDY– Elif Saracoglu

Contact Kyriakos Panopoulos CERTH/CPERI E: panopoulos@certh.gr W: www.cperi.certh.gr

Figure 5: Elif and the CERTH/CPERI team.

insight into the optimum preparation method for the modified catalyst and with the aid of PhD students from CERTH, I was able to do this. The modified catalysts were characterised to determine their significant physicochemical properties and then were used in catalytic pyrolysis experiments in order to identify the effects on the pyrolytic product. Applying to take part in a BRISK Transnational Access project was quite easy and simple. Once I had completed the form concerning the purpose of my study, I contacted the host organisation (CERTH/CPERI) to discuss further details. After we planned the experimental methods and materials, I submitted my application and in less than two months I received approval. Visiting

CERTH through the BRISK Transnational Access programme was an influential experience for both my technical and professional development. I had a chance to observe different methods and approaches under the tutelage of staff from CPERI laboratories. Acknowledgements I would like to thank Dr. Eleni F. Iliopoulou, Dr. Konstantinos G. Kalogiannis, Eleni Paxatouridou and Stelios Stefanidis and all of the staff working at CPERI at CERTH for the welcome and help they gave me. I also want to thank my supervisor, Dr. Basak Burcu Uzun Akınlar at Anadolu University, for her support during this study, and my supervisor, Dr. Basak Burcu Uzun Akınlar at Anadolu University, for her support during this study.

Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry experiments

36 CASE STUDY – Giedrius Stravinskas

At the Laboratory of Combustion processes (Lithuanian Energy Institute, Kaunas, Lithuania) we are involved in pyrolysis and gasification experiments with different kinds of biomass and organic waste and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis of condensates. Our head of laboratory, Nerijus Striūgas, advised me to check-out the BRISK website to see if it was possible for us to analyse our samples with an analytical Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) system which we do not have at our own laboratory. Amongst the various facilities listed on the website, I found that Aston University Bioenergy Research Group (BERG), at the European Bioenergy Research Institute (EBRI) in Birmingham, UK had suitable facilities for the type of research we wanted to do. I subsequently completed and sent off an application form with a description of my proposed analytical research on our samples. The scope of the research was to run Py-GC/MS experiments with softwood, straw, dried sewage sludge and sewage sludge blends with biomass, straw blends with glycerol in different proportions at three pyrolysis temperatures, namely 300, 500 and 700°C. The application procedure was incredibly fast and simple; we exchanged just a few e-mails. The staff at BERG were very helpful and arranged my travel to the UK and my accommodation on the Aston University campus. I am very grateful to them for all their advice both before and during the visit.

Here Giedrius Stravinskas of the Lithuanian Energy Institute reflects on his BRISK research experience at the European Bioenergy Research Institute (EBRI) at Aston University in the UK. BRISK is funded by the European Commission Seventh Framework Programme (Capacities).

The main analytical system I was interested in was the CDS 5200 series Pyroprobe system close-coupled with a PerkinElmer Clarus 680 GC-MS/FID. I also made use of Aston University’s Thermogravimetric Analyser (TGA) for the investigation of thermal properties of biomass and decomposition kinetics (PerkinElmer Pyris 1). They also provided all the necessary consumables, analytical scales and furnaces for sample preparation, weighing and mixing. A whole part of the laboratory was dedicated to my research during the ten working days of my visit. I was subsequently given extended access to their

Continued on next page

Figure 1: The EBRI Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-

Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) system.

Figure 2: Analysing Py-GC/MS data at EBRI.

Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry experiments...continued

37 CASE STUDY– Giedrius Stravinskas

laboratory because it was impossible to finish all the samples during those ten days, as more ideas about characterising the material had emerged. I am hoping to publish the results from this research in a future article. During my visit I learned the principles of Py-GC/MS analysis of biomass and organic waste, and what kind of products are evolving at different pyrolysis temperatures. Thanks to Dr. Daniel

Figure 3: TGA during an experiment with loaded

autosampler.

Continued on next page

Figure 4: Giedrius Stravinskas (left) of the Lithuanian

Energy Institute with Dr. Daniel Nowakowski of EBRI.

Nowakowski of EBRI, I have improved my skills in interpreting the mass spectra of organic compounds specific to biomass pyrolysis. A huge amount of analytical data was recorded during the visit, which will require intense systematic analysis. I also had a very interesting visit to see the infrastructure of the EBRI gasifier/pyrolysis demonstration power plant. Having a tour of their other analytical laboratories was also a very interesting experience, since everything is installed according to best laboratory practices. During my spare time I managed to explore the vibrant city of Birmingham and its famous places and historic canals. It was really interesting to see the city’s architecture and to meet people from different cultures. I am very grateful to the BERG staff, to name a few...Dr. Daniel Nowakowski, Dr. Jim Scott, Emma Wylde, Kerri Lyon, Surila Darbar and Prof. Tony Bridgwater. All in all, it was a great experience.

Figure 5: Loading TG samples.

Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry experiments...continued

38 CASE STUDY– Giedrius Stravinskas

Figure 6: Softwood analysis.

Figure 7: Spruce analysis.

Contact

Tony Bridgwater E: a.v.bridgwater@aston.ac.uk W: www.aston.ac.uk/ebri

39 EDUCATION

Publications

Biomass and Biofuels from Microalgae: Advances in Engineering and Biology (Biofuel and Biorefinery Technologies) Editors: Navid Reza Moheimani, Mark P McHenry, Kame de Boer Publisher: Springer Published: 30 April 2015 ISBN: 978-331916639

Biomass and Biofuels: Advanced Biorefineries for Sustainable Production and Distribution Editors: Shibu Jose, Thallada Bhaskar Publisher: CRC Press Published: 15 May 2015 ISBN: 978-1466595316 Direct Microbial Conversion of Biomass to Advanced Biofuels Publisher: Elsevier Editor: Michael E Himmel Published: 1 June 2015 ISBN: 978-0444595928

Pretreatment Techniques for Biofuels and Biorefineries Editor: Zhen Fang Publisher: Springer Published: 24 June 2015 ISBN: 978-3642440509

Production of Biofuels from Non-consumable Carbon Sources: A Step towards Renewable Fuel Editors: Muhammad Shahid Iqbal, Muhammad Nauman Ahmad, Saleem Ullah Publisher: LAP LAMBER Academic Publishing Published: 18 August 2015 ISBN: 978-3659757640 Efficiency of Biomass Energy: An Exergy Approach to Biofuels, Power and Biorefineries Editor: Krzysztof J. Ptasinski Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell Published: 11 September 2015 ISBN: 978-1118702107

To visit the website of

each of these

publications click on

the relevant title to

open the hyperlink.

14th-17th World Biomarkets 2016 Amsterdam, Netherlands

APRIL 2016 5th-7th Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy and Waste Management Exhibition and Forum Sofia, Bulgaria

MAY 2016 9th-12th Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis: Pyro 2016 Nancy, France 10th-11th REGATEC 2016 - International Conference on Renewable Energy Gas Technology Malmö, Sweden 23rd-26th WasteEng2016 Conference Albi, France 24th-26th World Bioenergy 2016 Jönköping, Sweden 30th-31st May and 1st June RRB-12 (Renewable Resources and Biorefineries) Ghent, Belgium

JUNE 2016 6th-9th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition (EUBCE 2016) Amsterdam, the Netherlands

SEPTEMBER 2016 6th-8th Energy Quest 2016 Ancona, Italy

OCTOBER 2015 26th-28th Advanced Biofuels Omaha, US 27th-29th IEA Bioenergy Conference 2015 Berlin, Germany 27th-29th European Forum for Industrial Biotechnology and the Bioeconomy Brussels, Belgium

NOVEMBER 2015 2nd-5th tcbiomass2015 Chicago, US 18th-19th Vessel Efficiency and Fuel Management Summit Singapore

JANUARY 2016 18th-19th Fuels of the Future Berlin, Germany 20th-21st Lignofuels 2016 Munich, Germany

MARCH 2016 6th-9th Eco-Bio 2016 Rotterdam, Netherlands 9th-11th BioEnergy Italy Cremona, Italy

Diary of International Events

40 EVENTS

41 EVENTS

Taking you from know-how to show-how! Organised every second year this major global bioenergy get-together is based on the unique “Taking you from Know-How to Show-How” concept, combining tradeshow, conference sessions and field excursions into one comprehensive event. This way academic research and development blends with commercial experience providing a better business context.

This event will consist of: Exhibition (indoors and outdoors) Conference Study tours

Contact For more information contact: T: +46 36 15 20 00 E: worldbioenergy@elmia.se

WORLD BIOENERGY 2016 Conference & Exhibition on Biomass For Energy

24—26 MAY 2016, STOCKHOLM—SWEDEN

www.elmia.se/en/worldbioenergy

The European Biomass Conference and Exhibition (EUBCE) is a world class annual event which, since 1980, is held at different venues throughout Europe. The EUBCE covers the entire value chain of biomass to conduct business, network, and to present and discuss the latest developments and innovations, the vision is to educate the biomass community and to accelerate growth. The EUBCE will host a dynamic international exhibition for companies and research labs to showcase their latest products and innovations, bringing scientists, technologists and students together with leading biomass industries and organizations.

Submit your abstract

Be part of the EUBCE 2016 and present your latest scientific, technological and industrial results to the biomass sector’s leading scientists, researchers, experts and professionals by submitting your abstract by 30 October 2015

Contact General questions: +39 055 5002280 ext 221 Email: biomass.conference@etaflorence.it Conference programme: Anna Salimbeni +39 055 5002280 ext 218 Email: anna.salimbeni@etaflorence.it

www.eubce.com

24th European Biomass Conference & Exhibition

AMSTERDAM—THE NETHERLANDS 6-9 JUNE 2016 EUBCE 2016

42 EVENT

Other bioenergy related newsletters produced by Aston University include: PyNe - the newsletter of IEA Bioenergy Task

34 for Pyrolysis EERA Bioenergy

If you require further information about the BRISK newsletter please contact the Editor: Irene Watkinson Aston University European Bioenergy Research Institute (EBRI), Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK T: +44 121 204 3430 E: i.i.watkinson@aston.ac.uk This edition of BRISK NEWS is also available on the BRISK website. Thanks go to Kerri Lyon of Aston University who helped with the editing of some of the case studies in this edition.

www.briskeu.com/home/publications

Contact the Editor

Pyro2016 will offer a platform where scientists, from academia as well as industry, can meet to discuss the recent advances in pyrolysis science and technology. We intend to propose a scientific programme with a good balance between fundamentals and applied work in various fields (biomass, organic geochemistry, wastes, polymers, art and forensic, etc.). Studies dealing with a multi-scale approach to bridge the gap between molecular mechanism and reactor development will be especially welcome. The scientific programme will follow the tradition of the previous Pyro symposia with only one session (no parallel session) including invited lectures, key notes and talks. Work related to the following topics will be especially welcome:

www.pyro2016.com

Fundamental mechanisms and reactor developments for biomass, coal, petroleum and waste pyrolysis;

Pyrolysis in organic geochemistry, art and forensic, etc.;

Catalytic pyrolysis; Technical-economical and environmental

assessment of pyrolysis processes and routes;

Novel sampling and analytical methods for the analysis of solid, liquid and vapour pyrolysis products;

Reactive pyrolysis (e.g. hydro-pyrolysis etc.); Synthetic polymer degradation and stability.

Contact E: pyro2016@progepi.fr T: +33 3 83 17 53 93

21st International Symposium on

Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis Nancy, France, 9-12 May 2016

Åbo Akademi University - Finland

Anders Brink E: anders.brink@abo.fi

Aston University European Bioenergy Research Institute (EBRI) - UK

Tony Bridgwater E: a.v.bridgwater@aston.ac.uk

BIOENERGY 2020+ - Austria Stefan Retschitzegger E: stefan.retschitzegger@bioenergy2020.eu

Cardiff University - UK

Phil Bowen E: bowenpj@cardiff.ac.uk

Centre for Research and Technology (CERTH) - Greece Kyriakos Panopoulos

E: panopoulos@certh.gr

CIUDEN - Spain

Miguel Ángel Delgado E: ma.delgado@ciuden.es

Delft University of Technology (TUD) - Netherlands Wiebren de Jong E: wiebren.dejong@tudelft.nl

Energy research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN) - Netherlands Luc Rabou E: rabou@ecn.nl

ENEA - Italy Francesco Zimbardi E: zimbardi@enea.it

Energy Technology Centre (ETC) Piteå - Sweden Magnus Marklund E: magnus.marklund@etcpitea.se

Graz University of Technology (TUG) - Austria

Ingwald Obernberger E: ingwald.obernberger@tugraz.at

INERCO - Spain

Juan Cruz E: jlcruz@inerco.com

43 BRISK PARTNERS

The BRISK consortium consists of 24 partners from 14 countries and is coordinated by KTH (Royal Institute of Technology) in Sweden. The main contacts for each partner are shown below. Further details can be found on the BRISK website www.briskeu.com.

International Flame Research Foundation (IFRF) - Italy Neil Fricker E: neil.fricker@ifrf.net

KTH (Royal Institute of Technology) - Sweden

Andrew Martin E: andrew.martin@energy.kth.se Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) - Norway

Edd Blekkan E: edd.blekkan@chemeng.ntnu.no

Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) - Switzerland

Serge Biollaz E: serge.biollaz@psi.ch

SINTEF - Norway

Torbjørn Gjervan E: Torbjorn.Gjervan@sintef.no

Technical University of Denmark (DTU) - Denmark Flemming Frandsen E: ff@kt.dtu.dk

Technical University of Munich (TUM) - Germany

Matthias Gaderer E: gaderer@tum.de

TUBITAK, Marmara Research Centre - Turkey Alper Sarioğlan E: alper.sarioglan@tubitak.gov.tr

University of Naples Federico II - Italy

Colomba Di Blasi E: diblasi@unina.it

University of Zaragoza (UNIZAR) - Spain

Jesús Arauzo E: jarauzo@unizar.es

Vienna University of Technology (TUW) - Austria Reinhard Rauch E: reinhard.rauch@tuwien.ac.at

Wroclaw University of Technology - Poland

Wieslaw Rybak E: wieslaw.rybak@pwr.wroc.pl

Disclaimer: BRISK NEWS is published by the European Bioenergy Research Institute (EBRI), Aston University, UK on behalf of the BRISK

Consortium. BRISK is funded by the European Commission Seventh Framework Programme (Capacities). Any opinions or material published are

those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect any views or policies of the European Commission, Aston University or any other

organisation.