Process Simulation and Cost Analysis for Removing Inorganics from Wood Chips Using Combined Mechanical and Chemical Preprocessing

摘要: Inorganic species (ash) in biomass feedstocks negatively impact thermochemical and biochemical energy conversion processes. In this work, a process simulation model is developed to the reduction ash content of loblolly logging residues using combination air classification dilute-acid leaching. Various scenarios are considered, it found that costs associated with discarding high-ash material from substantial. The loss can be reduced by chemical leaching fraction obtained classification. optimal condition approximately 0.1 wt% sulfuric acid at 24 °C. example scenarios, total range $6–9/dry tons product projected result removal 14, 62, 39, 88 % organics, (inorganics), alkaline earth metals phosphorus (AAEMS + P), silicon, respectively. Sensitivity analyses indicate organic during processing (yield losses), brine disposal, labor have greatest potential cost.