Testing model for assessment of lignocellulose-based pellets

This paper aims to find a simple testing and assessment model applicable to lignocellulose-based pellets, for the purpose of making the appropriate selection from the market. It is analysed the main tests of pellets, as density, caloric value and shear strength, for three different types of pellets bought from the competitive market. Afterwards is detailed the method of operation for the shear strength due to its not so frequent use. Finally, based on the tested values and limits required by the existing standards, it is determined a simple method for assessing for pellets, pointing out the closeness of each tested value to the standard limits.

Torrefaction of lamellar panels made of oak and spruce wood species

This paper is focused on the torrefaction of lamellar panels made of wooden species of spruce and beech, with a view to noticing the influences of the torrefaction on the physical and mechanical properties. The working method highlights the special character of the lamellar panel torrefaction as compared to other torrefied products. The obtained results emphasize that the mass losses increase with the severity of the thermal-treatment condition, where as the hygroscopicity and mechanical properties of the material simultaneously decrease. The analysis of the obtained results recommends the use of these panels in humid/moist environment.

Researches on grape husk waste obtained from the winery and its use as pellets for combustion

Nowadays, there is a tendency to find new sources of biomass and to efficiently use old sources, especially to find renewable fuels. The paper aims to use grape husks resulting from the preparation of wine as pellets for combustion. Oven dry grape husk were used to be crushed and graded with the sieve of 1×1 mm in order to obtain dust for pelletizing. The pellets obtained from grape husk winery have a good density of 979 kg. m-3; a good ash content of 4.53% and a better high and low calorific value of 20.150 MJ. kg-1 and 19.850 MJ. kg-1, respectively. All over, the obtained results showed that this kind of raw material (pellets) can be use successfully when they are pelletized.