Monday, May 5, 2008
5-07

Characterization of the Rheological Properties of Biomass Feedstocks

Peter A. Pryfogle, Biofuels & Renewable Energy Technologies, Idaho National Laboratory - Battelle Energy Alliance, 2525 North Freemont Avenue, IRC - 602/MS2203, Idaho Falls, ID 83415 and Judy K. Partin, Materials Characterization, Idaho National Laboratory - Battelle Energy Alliance, 1765 N Yllwstone Hwy, IRC - 602Mail Stop 2211, Idaho Falls, ID 83415.

Agricultural residues, such as corn stover and wheat straw, and energy crops, such as switchgrass, represent significant sources of lignocellulosic biomass for use in biofuel production. However, due to their low bulk densities and fibrous constituents, they are difficult and expensive to process, handle, transport, and store. The results of an initial study to quantify the physical and rheological properties of herbaceous biomass materials, including corn stover, wheat straw, and switchgrass, are presented. The characteristics tested include the particle size and distribution, bulk density, compressibility, relaxation, springback, permeability, confined yield strength, and friction properties. These properties are a function of feedstock tissue structure, moisture content, consolidation pressure and history, and define the compactability and flowability of materials through various processes. This data is being used in the development of a uniform material format that is compatible with the use of low-cost, large-capacity feedstock handling, transportation, and storage systems.

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