Publikationen

Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Biological biogas upgrading capacity of a hydrogenotrophic community in a trickle-bed reactor

Rachbauer L, Voitl G, Bochmann G, Fuchs W. Biological biogas upgrading capacity of a hydrogenotrophic community in a trickle-bed reactor. Applied Energy. 15 October 2016;180: 483-490.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Biomass-Based Heating and Hot Water Supply Systems for Prefabricated, High Energy Performance Houses: a Comparison of System Configurations and Control Strategies

Carlon E, Schwarz M, Prada A, Verma V, Baratieri M, Gasparella A, Schmidl C. Biomass-Based Heating and Hot Water Supply Systems for Prefabricated, High Energy Performance Houses: a Comparison of System Configurations and Control Strategies. 12th REHVA World Congress CLIMA 2016 (full paper review and oral presentation). 22 May 2016, Aalborg, Denmark.

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Nowadays prefabricated houses are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to their low cost and high energy performance. Heating systems installed in these houses should be carefully designed and controlled, to ensure sufficient thermal comfort while maintaining low fuel consumptions. This study presents the simulation of different system configurations and control strategies for a pre-fabricated house, located in Lower Austria. The house is heated by a 6 kW pellet boiler directly connected to a floor heating system, in a configuration without buffer storage tank. Using the TRNSYS simulation suite, a coupled simulation of the house and its heating and hot water supply system was set up, calibrated and validated with reference to monitoring data. As monitoring data evidenced that the control strategy of the heating system is not ideal to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature during the whole day, two improved strategies were simulated over the heating season and evaluated in terms of thermal comfort, pellet consumption and boiler’s efficiency. Moreover, to better understand the influence of the system configuration, simulations have been repeated considering another heat distribution system (radiators instead of floor heating). Results show that the radiators’ network, if adequately controlled, reduces by 85% the total discomfort time. In addition, the pellet boiler mainly operates in load modulation regime, leading to lower pellet supply rates and therefore to lower pellet consumptions (18% less than floor heating). However, the lower operational loads and frequent ignitions result in a slightly lower efficiency of the pellet boiler (4% less than the configuration with floor heating.

Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Characterization of biochars produced from pyrolysis of pelletized agricultural residues

Colantoni A, Evic N, Lord R, Retschitzegger S, Proto A, Gallucci F, Monarca D. Characterization of biochars produced from pyrolysis of pelletized agricultural residues. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews. 1 October 2016;64: 187-194.

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Biochars produced from pelletized grape vine (GV) and sunflower husk (SFH) agricultural residues were studied by pyrolysis in a batch reactor at 400 and 500 °C. Chemical and physical evolution of the biomass under pyrolysis conditions was determined and the products were characterized, including the main gaseous organic components. Results showed a decrease in solid biochar yield with increasing temperature. Biochar is defined as 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. The aim of this work is to improve the knowledge and acceptability of alternative use of the biochar gained from agro-forestry biomass residuals, such as grape vine and sunflower husks, by means of modern chemical and physical characterization tools.

Other papers | 2016

Cold flow modelling of char concentration in the recirculated bed material stream of a dual fluidized bed steam gasification system

Kraft S, Kirnbauer F, Hofbauer H. Cold flow modelling of char concentration in the recirculated bed material stream of a dual fluidized bed steam gasification system. Fluidization XV. 22-27 May 2016, Quebec, Canada.

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The dual fluidized bed (DFB) steam gasification technology of biomass was developed at Vienna University of Technology and is well-established for transforming biomass into a product gas which can be used for further applications. The DFB steam gasification reactor consists of a gasification chamber (bubbling bed, fluidized with steam) and a combustion chamber (turbulent bed, fluidized with air). Biomass is fed into the gasification chamber and gets in contact with the bed material, typically Olivine, at about 840°C. The released volatiles leave the gasification reactor as product gas. A part of the solid residue, called char, flows with the bed material via a chute to the combustion chamber where it is burnt with air. The bed material is heated up, separated from the flue gas stream in a cyclone and flows back to the gasification reactor via a loop seal where it provides the heat for devolatilization and drying of the biomass. The movement of the char is crucial since a sufficient amount has to flow to the combustion chamber and burn to provide enough energy for bed material heat-up. Up to now little is known about the char concentration in the bed material recirculation stream (or short recirculation stream) and its influencing variables. Therefore, a cold flow model, operated with ambient air, was constructed to study the influence of various parameters on the char concentration in the recirculation stream. Bronze is used as bed material since is matches closest to the scaling criteria. The char is also scaled; polyethylene is used as model char.

The cold flow model, see Figure 1 for the flowsheet, consists of a “gasification chamber” which corresponds to the gasification chamber in the hot plant and is as well operated as a bubbling bed. Via a chute the recirculation stream moves to a rotary valve which enables to set a fixed recirculation rate and make it independent from the following pneumatic conveying. Then, gas and solids are separated in a cyclone and the recirculation stream finally flows back to the gasification chamber. After the loop seal samples are taken for investigation of the model char concentration in the recirculation stream. In the present study the influence of fluidization rate in the gasification chamber, bed material recirculation rate and model char mass in the system on the char concentration in the recirculation stream are investigated. It was found that the model char particles show a flotsam behavior. Higher fluidization rates increase the model char concentration in the recirculation stream because of better mixing, whereas the bed material recirculation rate has only little influence. Doubling and tripling the overall char mass in the system did not lead to a doubling or tripling model char concentration in the recirculation stream. The present observations are helping to better understand the ongoing phenomena inside of the dual fluidized bed gasification reactor and provide knowledge to further optimize it.

Conference presentations and posters | 2016

Detailed Reaction Schemes and Product Characterization Applied to Pyrolysis of a Single Spruce Particle

Andrés Anca-Couce, Peter Sommersacher, Robert Scharler, Christoph Hochenauer. Detailed Reaction Schemes and Product Characterization Applied to Pyrolysis of a Single Spruce Particle. 24rd European Biomass Conference & Exhibition (oral presentation).

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Dominating high temperature corrosion mechanism in low alloy steels in wood chips fired boilers

Gruber T, Retschitzegger S, Scharler R, Obernberger I. Dominating high temperature corrosion mechanism in low alloy steels in wood chips fired boilers. Energy and Fuels. 17 March 2016;30(3): 2385-2394.

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Ash related problems such as slagging, fouling, and high temperature corrosion in biomass fired boilers are still insufficiently explored due to the complexity of the underlying processes. High temperature corrosion of low alloy steels like 13CrMo4-5 has already been investigated in plants firing chemically untreated wood chips. In this earlier work it has been suggested that the oxidation of the steel is the dominating mechanism in the material temperature range between 450 and 550 °C. Unfortunately the exponential dependence of the material degradation on the flue gas temperature also found within this work cannot be explained with the proposed corrosion mechanism. To determine the dominating corrosion mechanism, additionally test runs have been carried out in a specially designed drop tube reactor. To investigate the time-dependent corrosion behavior of 13CrMo4-5, a newly developed mass loss probe was applied under several constant parameter setups. In addition to these measurements, the time-dependent oxidation of 13CrMo4-5 under air was investigated in a muffle furnace. To gain relevant information regarding the corrosion mechanism prevailing, the deposits as well as the corrosion products have been examined subsequently to the test runs by means of scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analyses. With the experimental data gained it could be shown that the dominating corrosion mechanism strongly depends on the conditions prevailing (e.g., steel temperature, flue gas temperature, and velocity) and can either be the oxidation of the steel by gaseous O2 and H2O or a combination of oxidation and active Cl-induced oxidation.

Other Publications | 2016

Emission Reduction of Firewood Roomheaters by Optimization of Operating Conditions and Catalyst Integration

Reichert G, Stressler H, Schmidl C, Schwabl M, Sturmlechner R, Haslinger W. Emission Reduction of Firewood Roomheaters by Optimization of Operating Conditions and Catalyst Integration. 24th European Biomass Conference & Exhibition (oral presentation). June 2016, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

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Other papers | 2016

Energetische Verwertung einer Feinfraktion aus der MBA durch pyrolytische Behandlung

Meirhofer M, Wartha C, Strasser C. Energetische Verwertung einer Feinfraktion aus der MBA durch pyrolytische Behandlung. Recy & DepoTech 2016 (poster). November 2016, Leoben, Austria.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Enhanced Separation of the Organic Fraction from Paper Mill Effluent for Energy Recovery

Stoyanova E, Bochmann G, Couperus A, Fuchs W. Enhanced Separation of the Organic Fraction from Paper Mill Effluent for Energy Recovery. Waste and Biomass Valorization. 1 October 2016;7(5): 1031-1039.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Experimental investigations of hydrogen production from CO catalytic conversion of tar rich syngas by biomass gasification

Chianese S, Fail S, Binder M, Rauch R, Hofbauer H, Molino A, Blasi A, Musmarra D. Experimental investigations of hydrogen production from CO catalytic conversion of tar rich syngas by biomass gasification. Catalysis Today. 15 November 2016;277: 181-192.

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In this paper, the activity of a cobalt/molybdenum (Co/Mo) commercial catalyst for the Water Gas Shift Reaction for hydrogen production was investigated in a three fixed-bed reactor pilot plant using a tar-rich synthesis gas from a full-scale biomass gasification plant as feed-stream. A parametric variation study was carried out to assess CO conversion (XCO) and selectivity for the water gas shift reaction as a function of the operating temperature (T) in the range 300–450 °C. The effects of four dry gas hourly space velocities (GHSV), Case A-Case D, two steam to dry synthesis gas ratios (H2O/SG), 56% v/v and 67% v/v, and a H2S concentration in the range 100–220 ppmv,db were investigated: the highest CO conversion (∼95%) was observed in the base case (Case A GHSV) at 67% v/v H2O/SG, and 450 °C, the lower the operating temperature the lower the CO concentration, the lower the gas hourly space velocity the higher the CO conversion and the higher the H2O/SG the higher the CO conversion. The effect of H2S variation on CO conversion was also studied, keeping the operating temperature constant (≈365 °C) and using the Case D GHSV: CO conversion increased as the H2S concentration increased and XCO ≈ 40%. Selectivity was not influenced by the parameters investigated. Finally, the effect of the catalyst on tar removal was studied and a CO conversion close to 85% was found.

Other papers | 2016

Harmonised Greenhouse Gas Calculations for Electricity, Heating and Cooling from Biomass

Ludwiczek N, Bacovsky D, Sonnleitner A, Strasser C. Harmonised Greenhouse Gas Calculations for Electricity, Heating and Cooling from Biomass. e-nova 2016 (oral presentation). November 2016, Pinkafeld, Austria.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Hydrogen production within a polygeneration concept based on dual fluidized bed biomass steam gasification

Kraussler M, Binder M, Schindler P, Hofbauer H. Hydrogen production within a polygeneration concept based on dual fluidized bed biomass steam gasification. Biomass and Bioenergy. 24 December 2016;

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Other papers | 2016

Hythane from biomass steam gasification as natural gas substitute in industrial applications

Kraussler M, Schindler P, Hofbauer H. Hythane from biomass steam gasification as natural gas substitute in industrial applications. Biorestec (poster). October 2016, Sitges, Spain.

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Reports | 2016

IEA Bioenergy Countries´ Report

Bacovsky D, Dissauer C, Enigl M, Ludwiczek N, Pointner C, Sonnleitner A, Verma VK. IEA Bioenergy Countries´ Report. IEA Bioenergy Countries´ Report. August 2016.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Impact of Na Promoter on Structural Properties and Catalytic Performance of CoNi/Al2O3 Nanocatalysts for the CO Hydrogenation Process: Fischer–Tropsch Technology

Nikparsa P, Mirzaei AA, Rauch R. Impact of Na Promoter on Structural Properties and Catalytic Performance of CoNi/Al2O3 Nanocatalysts for the CO Hydrogenation Process: Fischer–Tropsch Technology. Catalysis Letters. January 2016;146(1): 61-71.

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Other papers | 2016

Improving the propanol yield of mixed alcohol synthesis based on wood gas derived from biomass steam gasification

Binder M, Rauch R, Hofbauer H. Improving the propanol yield of mixed alcohol synthesis based on wood gas derived from biomass steam gasification. iSGA 2016 - 5th International Symposium on Gasification and its Applications (invited lecture). November/December 2016, Busan, Korea.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Influence of firebed temperature on particle emissions in a residential wood pellet boiler

Gehrig M, Jäger D, Pelz SK, Weissinger A, Groll A, Thorwarth H, Haslinger W. Influence of firebed temperature on particle emissions in a residential wood pellet boiler. Atmospheric Environment. July 2016;136: 61-67.

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The crucial point in inorganic particle formation from biomass combustion is the temperature-dependent release of inorganic compounds, especially potassium (K). Currently, common wood fuels comprise of a comparatively low amount of K, but the increased usage of wood energy requires new feedstocks in the future. Potentially new feedstocks, such as short rotation coppice (SRC), fuels from agriculture (e.g., straw), or wood from broad-leafed trees of low rotation, contain usually high ash contents and/or high K concentrations. Apparently, these feedstocks will cause increased inorganic particle emissions from biomass combustion processes. The principle of a decreased firebed temperature as a primary measure aiming at a retention of K in the ashes of the firebed is a common approach for particle emission reduction and was investigated in several previous studies. The present study describes the usage of an ash-rich fuel from SRC pellets made from willow in a residential pellet boiler modified with an unique prototype of direct water-based firebed cooling. This test setup enables the study of the isolated impact of decreased firebed temperatures and its influence on the combustion process and emissions as well. A statistically significant effect of the firebed cooling on temperatures below the burner plate as on gaseous HCl and SO2 was found. The high ash content of the used fuel limited the effectiveness of the applied direct firebed cooling in residential biomass combustion. The accumulation of a thick and thermal insulating ash layer above the burner plate decreased the heat transfer, limited the cooling efficiency, and revealed deviations from the expected particle formation process.

Other Publications | 2016

Influence of leak tightness and heat storage capacity of biomass room heating appliances on thermal efficiency

Sturmlechner R, Reichert G, Stressler H, Aigenbauer S, Schmidl C, Schwabl M, Haslinger W. Influence of leak tightness and heat storage capacity of biomass room heating appliances on thermal efficiency. 24th European Biomass Conference & Exhibition (poster). June 2016, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Investigation of real life operation of biomass room heating appliances – results of a European survey

Wöhler M, Andersen JS, Becker G, Persson H, Reichert G, Schön C, Schmidl C, Jaeger D, Pelz SK. Investigation of real life operation of biomass room heating appliances – results of a European survey. Applied Energy. 1 May 2016;169: 240-249.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Investigation of User Behavior and Assessment of Typical Operation Mode for Different Types of Firewood Room Heating Appliances in Austria

Reichert G, Schmidl C, Haslinger W, Schwabl M, Moser W, Aigenbauer S, Wöhler M, Hochenauer C. Investigation of User Behavior and Assessment of Typical Operation Mode for Different Types of Firewood Room Heating Appliances in Austria. Renewable Energy. August 2016;93: 245-254.

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Firewood heaters like firewood roomheaters, tiled stoves and residential biomass cookers are commonly used for supplying the residences with renewable heat. However, these kinds of appliances were identified as responsible for relevant amounts of gaseous CO and OGC as well as particulate emissions causing negative health effects. Beside technological reasons, the operating conditions and the user behavior are essential reasons for increased emissions, especially in real life operation.

Therefore, this study aimed at an investigation and assessment of typical real life user behavior by a survey. Based on the findings effective and customer friendly technological and non-technological optimization approaches for a better and more environmental friendly real life performance were defined.

The results of the study showed principally similar user behavior of all considered types of appliances regarding most relevant operation characteristics, i.e. kind, properties and amount of used fuels, ignition procedure and air valve settings. Most effective non-technological optimization approaches were found for an enhancement of external training arrangements and the development of user friendly manuals that aimed mainly at an improvement of the ignition procedure from bottom–up to top–down ignition method. The use of devices with an automatically controlled combustion air supply was identified as promising technological measure.

Other papers | 2016

Investigations of a dual fluidized bed steam gasification plant by means of computation particle fluid dynamics

Kraft S, Kirnbauer F, Hofbauer H. Investigations of a dual fluidized bed steam gasification plant by means of computation particle fluid dynamics. 24th European Biomass Conference & Exhibition (oral presentation). June 2016, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

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Other Publications | 2016

Market integration of wood fuels and heating oil

Kristöfel C, Strasser C, Schmid E, Morawetz UB. Market integration of wood fuels and heating oil. 24th European Biomass Conference & Exhibition (poster). June 2016, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

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Conference presentations and posters | 2016

Mathematische Modellierung mittlerer bis großer Solaranlagen als Basis für modellbasierte Regelungsstrategien

Unterberger V, Lichtenegger K, Innerhofer P, Gerardts B, Gölles M. Mathematische Modellierung mittlerer bis großer Solaranlagen als Basis für modellbasierte Regelungsstrategien. Gleisdorf Solar 2016. Gleisdorf: 2016. (Auszeichnung als innovativstes Poster).

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Mechanism of Layer Formation on Olivine Bed Particles in Industrial-Scale Dual Fluid Bed Gasification of Wood

Kuba M, He H, Kirnbauer F, Skoglund N, Boström D, Öhman M, Hofbauer H. Mechanism of Layer Formation on Olivine Bed Particles in Industrial-Scale Dual Fluid Bed Gasification of Wood. Energy & Fuels. 15 September 2016;30(9): 7410-7418.

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Utilization of biomass as feedstock in dual fluidized bed steam gasification is a promising technology for the substitution of fossil energy carriers. Experience from industrial scale power plants showed an alteration of the olivine bed material due to interaction with biomass ash components. This change results mainly in the formation of Ca-rich layers on the bed particles. In this paper, a mechanism for layer formation is proposed and compared to the better understood mechanism for layer formation on quartz bed particles. Olivine bed material was sampled at an industrial scale power plant before the start of operation and at pre-defined times after the operation had commenced. Therefore, time dependent layer formation in industrial-scale conditions could be investigated. The proposed mechanism suggests that the interaction between wood biomass ash and olivine bed particles is based on a solid-solid substitution reaction, where Ca2+ is incorporated into the crystal structure. As a consequence Fe2+/3+ and Mg2+ ions are expelled as oxides. This substitution results in the formation of cracks in the particle layer due to a volume expansion in the crystal structure once Ca2+ is incorporated. The results of this work are compared to relevant published results including those related to quartz bed particles.
 

Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Methodological approaches for fractionation and speciation to estimate trace element bioavailability in engineered anaerobic digestion ecosystems: An overview

van Hullebusch ED, Guibaud G, Simon S, Lenz M, Yekta SS, Fermoso FG, Jain R, Duester L, Roussel J, Guillon E, Skyllberg U, Almeida CMR, Pechaud Y, Garuti M, Frunzo L, Esposito G, Carliell-Marquet C, Ortner M, Collins G. Methodological approaches for fractionation and speciation to estimate trace element bioavailability in engineered anaerobic digestion ecosystems: An overview. Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology. 17 August 2016;46(16): 1324-1366.

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Conference presentations and posters | 2016

Mixed alcohol synthesis based on wood gas derived from dual fluidized bed biomass steam gasification - applying a rapeseed oil methyl ester gas scrubber for gas conditioning

Binder, M., Rauch, R., Hofbauer, H., 2016, "Mixed alcohol synthesis based on wood gas derived from dual fluidized bed biomass steam gasification - applying a rapeseed oil methyl ester gas scrubber for gas conditioning", poster presentation at BioResTec2016 - 1st International Conference on Bioresource Technology for Bioenergy, Bioproducts & Environmental Sustainability , 23 - 26 October 2016, Sitges, Spain.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Modification of Co/Al2O3 Fischer–Tropsch Nanocatalysts by Adding Ni: A Kinetic Approach

Nikparsa P, Mirzaei AA, Rauch R. Modification of Co/Al2O3 Fischer–Tropsch Nanocatalysts by Adding Ni: A Kinetic Approach. International Journal of Chemical Kinetics. 1 March 2016;48(3): 131-142.

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Other Publications | 2016

On site monitoring and dynamic simulation of a low energy house heated by a pellet boiler

Carlon E, Schwarz M, Prada A, Golicza L, Verma V, Baratieri M, Gasparella A, Haslinger W, Schmidl C. On site monitoring and dynamic simulation of a low energy house heated by a pellet boiler. 15 March 2016;116: 296-306.

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Prefabricated low energy houses are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their low cost and high energy performance. Heating systems installed in these houses should be optimally designed and controlled, to ensure thermal comfort for the whole heating season.

This study presents the on-site monitoring and dynamic simulation of a low energy house heated by a pellet boiler via a floor heating system. The house combines a lightweight envelope, a heat distribution system with a high thermal inertia and a biomass-based heat supply. The one-year monitoring campaign allowed to closely investigate the system's response to the heat demand. Moreover, a coupled simulation of the house and its heating and hot water supply system was set-up, calibrated, and validated against measured indoor temperature profiles and energy consumptions. Root mean square deviations between simulated and measured indoor temperature were in the range 0.4–0.8 K, while simulated energy consumptions fulfilled the criteria of the ASHRAE 14-2002 Guideline. As monitoring data evidenced the importance of better managing the high thermal inertia of the floor heating system, two improved control strategies were tested in the simulation environment and evaluated in terms of thermal comfort, pellet consumption and efficiency of the pellet boiler.

Conference presentations and posters | 2016

Overview on advanced biofuels technologies

Bacovsky D. Overview on advanced biofuels technologies. Bioenergy Australia 2016. November 2016, Brisbane, Australia.

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Other papers | 2016

Phase Sewparation Behaviour of FAME and Water

Bardolf R, Thoma C, Bosch K, Rauch R, Hofbauer H. Phase Sewparation Behaviour of FAME and Water. 24th European Biomass Conference & Exhibition (poster). June 2016, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

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Other papers | 2016

Possibility of industrial scale BioH2 production from product gas in existing dual fluidized bed biomass gasification plant

Jovanovic A, Stamenkovic M, Nenning L, Rauch R. Possibility of industrial scale BioH2 production from product gas in existing dual fluidized bed biomass gasification plant. 4th International Symposium on Environment Friendly Energies and Applications, EFEA 2016. 18 November 2016, Belgrade, Serbia.

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Conceptual solution of production of pure renewable hydrogen from wood gas or product derived from the commercial biomass steam gasification plant Güssing, Austria was carried out. The proposed process of product gas upgrading consisted of tree basic operations: (I) catalyzed water-gas shift (WGS) reaction, (II) gas drying and cleaning in a wet scrubber and (III) hydrogen purification by pressure swing adsorption. The tail gas or adsorbate can be used like fuel for gas engine for electrical energy production or like a boiler fuel for hot water-heat production.

Reports | 2016

Production of advanced biofuels

Bacovsky D. Production of advanced biofuels. Nationaler Workshop Biotreibstoffe. September 2016.

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Other papers | 2016

Progress in hydrogen production from product gas generated by dual fluidized bed biomass steam gasification

Kraussler M, Hofbauer H. Progress in hydrogen production from product gas generated by dual fluidized bed biomass steam gasification. 24th European Biomass Conference & Exhibition (oral presentation). June 2016, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

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Other Publications | 2016

Progress in Mixed Alcohol Synthesis - Based on Wood Gas Derived from Dual Fluidized Bed Biomass Steam Gasification

Binder, M., Weber, G., Rauch, R., Hofbauer, H.: Progress in Mixed Alcohol Synthesis - Based on Wood Gas Derived from Dual Fluidized Bed Biomass Steam Gasification. Poster presentation at CASCATBEL workshop 2016, 18 - 20 May 2016, Porto Carras, Greece.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Reaction mechanisms and multi-scale modelling of lignocellulosic biomass pyrolysis

Anca-Couce, A. Reaction mechanisms and multi-scale modelling of lignocellulosic biomass pyrolysis. Progress in Energy and Combustion Science. Volume 53, March 2016, Pages 41–79.

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In this work about pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass, the individual reaction mechanisms of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin are initially described. The recent advances in the understanding of the fundamental reaction pathways are described, including quantum-mechanical calculations, and the description of pyrolysis as a two-step process, i.e., primary pyrolysis and secondary charring, the effect of the presence of an intermediate liquid compound, and the influence of inorganic species are discussed.

The need to describe biomass pyrolysis as the sum of the contributions of its individual components is then emphasised. The process of determining biomass mass loss kinetics is analysed, and the product composition and heat of reaction that are experimentally obtained during pyrolysis are presented, along with detailed schemes that can be used to predict them.

Finally, it is demonstrated that a multi-scale consideration of pyrolysis on multiple levels – specifically, on molecular, particle and reaction levels – is required to accurately describe biomass pyrolysis. Intra-particle phenomena and particle models are discussed and the reactor level is analysed with a focus placed on fixed bed and fluidised bed pyrolysis. In summary, a list of 10 research focal points that will be important in the future is presented.

Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Short term online corrosion measurements in biomass fired boilers. Part 2: Investigation of the corrosion behavior of three selected superheater steels for two biomass fuels

Retschitzegger, S., Gruber, T., Brunner, T., Obernberger, I. Short term online corrosion measurements in biomass fired boilers. Part 2: Investigation of the corrosion behavior of three selected superheater steels for two biomass fuels. Fuel Processing Technology. Volume 142, February 2016, Pages 59-70.

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The high temperature corrosion behavior of the boiler steels 13CrMo4-5 (1.7335), P91 (1.4903) and 1.4541 has been investigated during short-term test runs (~ 500 h) at a biomass fired grate furnace combined with a drop tube. For the test runs performed with 13CrMo4-5 and P91 chemically untreated wood chips have been used as fuel, whereas waste wood has been used for test runs with P91 and 1.4541. Online corrosion probes and a mass loss probe have been used applying a methodology developed in a previous study to correct for a measurement error occurring during short-term measurements with online corrosion probes (mass loss correction). Furthermore, deposit probe measurements have been performed to evaluate the deposit build-up rate and the chemical composition of deposits. SEM/EDX analyses of the corrosion probes have been performed subsequently to the test runs to gain information regarding the chemical composition and structure of the deposits as well as the corrosion layers.

The furnace has been operated at constant load to ensure constant combustion conditions. The flue gas temperature at the probes has been varied between 740 and 900 °C and the probe surface temperature has been varied between 400 and 560 °C in order to determine their influence on the corrosion rate.

General trends determined by the variation of these temperatures were similar for all boiler steels: the corrosion rate increased with increasing flue gas temperature and also with increasing probe surface temperature. For chemically untreated wood chips combustion at low flue gas temperatures (740 °C) the corrosion rates were comparable for 13CrMo4-5 and P91 at all probe surface temperatures. However, at flue gas temperatures of 800 °C and higher P91 showed better corrosion resistance than 13CrMo4-5. For waste wood combustion 1.4541 generally showed a better corrosion resistance than P91.

The mass loss correction of the measurement error occurring in the initial phase resulted in different errors of 55% for 13CrMo4-5 and 32% for P91 for chemically untreated wood chips. For waste wood the mass loss correction resulted in errors of 55% for P91 and 77% for 1.4541. The results from the mass loss determination for the waste wood test runs scattered stronger compared to the wood chips test runs. Therefore, the fits were not that accurate and the error margin was higher. However, the results outline that the mass loss correction is relevant in order to achieve a meaningful comparison of different short-term test runs using online corrosion probes.

Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Simultaneous Online Determination of S, Cl, K, Na, Zn, and Pb Release from a Single Particle during Biomass Combustion. Part 2: Results from Test Runs with Spruce and Straw Pellets

Sommersacher P, Kienzl N, Brunner T, Obernberger I. Simultaneous Online Determination of S, Cl, K, Na, Zn, and Pb Release from a Single Particle during Biomass Combustion. Part 2: Results from Test Runs with Spruce and Straw Pellets. Energy and Fuels. 21 April 2016;30(4): 3428-3440.

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To gain better insight into inorganic element release processes, test runs with a specially designed single particle reactor connected with an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) have been performed. Relevant combustion related parameters such as mass loss during thermal degradation, temperature development of the particle (surface and center), and composition of released gases were recorded. By coupling the reactor to an ICP-MS, time-resolved release profiles of relevant aerosol forming elements (S, Cl, K, Na, Zn, and Pb) were determined. Targeted and controlled interruptions of the experiments (quenching) after a certain time were performed to validate reactor performance and reliability of the measurements. Test runs with softwood and straw pellets (8 mm in diameter and about 20 mm in length) were performed at reactor temperatures of 700, 850, and 1000 °C under oxidizing conditions (5.6 or 4.2 vol % O2). These test runs have revealed that the release ratios of volatile and semivolatile ash forming elements (S, Cl, K, Na, Zn, and Pb) generally increase as reactor temperatures rise. Moreover, regarding straw, higher Si and Al contents influence the release behavior of K, Na, Zn, and Pb. For K, existing release mechanisms proposed in the literature have been confirmed, and for Na it has been suggested that release mechanisms similar to K prevail. Especially during the starting phase of the experiment, a distinct temperature gradient exists from the surface to the center of the particle. Thus, different conversion phases occur in parallel in different layers of the particle, which has to be considered during the interpretation of the time-resolved release profiles of the main inorganic elements. Furthermore, transport limitations due to the occurrence of molten phases (especially for straw at reactor temperatures of 1000 °C) were obvious and could be directly derived from the online recorded release profiles. The targeted interruption of the ongoing decomposition process (quenching) provided an indication of the validity of the release profiles for S, K, Na, Zn, and Pb. Additionally, these experiments delivered valuable information regarding possible release mechanisms.

Reports | 2016

Technology Overview

Strasser C. Technology Overview. New York State Wood Heat Report: An Energy, Environmental, and Market Assessment - Final Report. April 2016. Chapter 8; 141-206.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

The influence of oxygen availability on off-gassing rates of emissions from stored wood pellets

Meier F, Sedlmayer I, Emhofer W, Wopienka E, Schmidl C, Haslinger W, Hofbauer H. The influence of oxygen availability on off-gassing rates of emissions from stored wood pellets. Energy & Fuels. 18 February 2016;30(2): 1006-1012.

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The phenomenon of off-gassing from wood pellets during storage has been the cause of several, in some cases fatal, accidents due to toxic atmospheres in storages. To optimize safety measures the nature of the responsible processes needs to be clarified. In this study the impact of O2 availability, which is a decisive factor for the presumed oxidation of fatty acids, is pointed out. Off-gassing rates of CO, CO2, VOC, and CH4 of pellets at relatively constant O2 levels of approximately 35%, 20%, and <1% over a period of 20 d at approximately 295 K were investigated. For this purpose 7 kg of spruce pellets was stored under simulated ventilation of the atmosphere in a 31 L tank. Gas concentrations were determined every 24 h by GC-FID/TCD. Compared to the mean emission rates at 35% O2 of CO (0.22 mg kg–1pelletsd.b. in 24 h) and CO2 (0.76 mg kg–1pelletsd.b. in 24 h) the lowest O2 concentration of <1% resulted in a significant reduction of off-gassing rates of 40% for both gases. In contrast the release rates of VOCs and also CH4 decreased with the higher O2 concentration (0.035 to 0.025 mg kg–1pelletsd.b. in 24 h; 0.0085 to 0.0061 mg kg–1pelletsd.b. in 24 h), presumably, because of increased onward reactions to CO and CO2. Since off-gassing was not prevented by the lack of O2 (<1% O2-trial) it is assumed that the O2 required for the reactions originated from the biomass itself. During the storage of pellets at 20% O2, emission rates of CO (0.18 mg kg–1pelletsd.b. in 24 h) and CO2 (0.79 mg kg–1pelletsd.b. in 24 h) at the start decreased by more than 20% and those for VOCs (0.032 mg kg–1pelletsd.b. in 24 h) by almost 30% after 3 weeks. It can be assumed that in ventilated storages the reactivity and thus a potential risk from off-gases from wood pellets decreases considerably in only a few weeks. The effects of aging, in terms of declining reactivity at relatively constant tank conditions, on off-gassing rates could be clarified for the first time. A realistic development of the decline of reactivity of the material itself could be determined.

Peer reviewed papers | 2016

The interplay of self-reflection, social interaction and random events in the dynamics of opinion flow in two-party democracies

Lichtenegger K, Hadzibeganovic T. The interplay of self-reflection, social interaction and random events in the dynamics of opinion flow in two-party democracies. International Journal of Modern Physics C. 1 May 2016;27(5).

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We propose a continuous process opinion formation model to study the dynamics of a multi-level relationship between voters, political parties, and facts in two-party democratic elections. In our model, opinions can take any real value between two extremes and an unaligned, moderate opinion state without a preference. Starting with a random opinion configuration, individual voter opinions evolve and change over time due to self-reflection, inter-personal communication, external media influence, and noise. Parties are influenced by their own ideologies, facts, and voters’ opinions. Elections are held periodically and the party that is closer in opinion to the majority of voters forms the new government. The government policy is then expected to be in proximity to the voter opinions and the policies of the currently ruling political party. We analyze the tension of opinions as a measure of how dramatically opinions can disagree within a given sample of voters and the success of the government and parties as the degree of coincidence between the policies and facts. Our model generates realistic quasi-periodic alternations between incumbents and challengers that are typical for two-party systems. Moreover, our model shows that relative to other voters’ strategies, conscious voting can lead to more successful governments of not only fact-oriented but also pragmatic and balanced political parties, irrespective of the strategies of the competing opposition parties. In addition, our simulations uncover several interesting features including less victories for strictly ideological or fact-oriented parties unless they include some aspects of populism or pragmatism. In this sense, our model can also describe situations where election outcomes are not necessarily based on votes for the current programs of competing parties and their placement on relevant issues, but instead result from voters’ dissatisfaction with the previous government and the votes against it.


Read More: http://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/S0129183116500650
Peer reviewed papers | 2016

The Virtual Biomass Grate Furnace - An Overall CFD Model for Biomass Combustion Plants

Ali Shiehnejadhesar, Ramin Mehrabian, Robert Scharler, Christoph Hochenauer. The Virtual Biomass Grate Furnace - An Overall CFD Model for Biomass Combustion Plants. 24rd European Biomass Conference & Exhibition (poster).

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This paper presents the virtual biomass grate furnace, which comprises of comprehensive CFD models of all relevant processes for the simulation of biomass grate furnaces. The models consist of a 3D packed bed model, a gas phase combustion model for laminar to highly turbulent flows and a model to account for the influence of the flue gas streaks arising from the fuel bed in the freeboard. The simulation results of a 20 kW underfeed stoker furnace show that the overall CFD model is able to provide valuable insight on the processes occurring in the packed bed and freeboard and their interactions.

Other papers | 2016

The wood pellet market in Austria: A structural market model analysis

Christa Kristöfel, Christoph Strasser, Erwin Schmid, Ulrich B. Morawetz, The wood pellet market in Austria: A structural market model analysis, Energy Policy, Volume 88, January 2016, Pages 402-412,

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Thermal Stability of Bed Particle Layers on Naturally Occurring Minerals from Dual Fluid Bed Gasification of Woody Biomass

Kuba M, He H, Kirnbauer F, Skoglund N, Boström D, Öhman M, Hofbauer H. Thermal Stability of Bed Particle Layers on Naturally Occurring Minerals from Dual Fluid Bed Gasification of Woody Biomass. Energy & Fuels. 20 October 2016;30(10): 8277-8285.

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The use of biomass as feedstock for gasification is a promising way of producing not only electricity and heat but also fuels for transportation and synthetic chemicals. Dual fluid bed steam gasification has proven to be suitable for this purpose. Olivine is currently the most commonly used bed material in this process due to its good agglomeration performance and its catalytic effectiveness in the reduction of biomass tars. However as olivine contains heavy metals such as nickel and chromium no further usage of the nutrient-rich ash is possible and additional operational costs arise due to necessary disposal of the ash fractions. This paper investigates possible alternative bed materials and their suitability for dual fluid bed gasification systems focusing on the behavior of the naturally occurring minerals olivine, quartz and K-feldspar in terms of agglomeration and fractionation at typical temperatures. To this end samples of bed materials with layer formation on their particles were collected at the industrial biomass combined heat and power (CHP) plant in Senden, Germany, which uses olivine as the bed material and woody biomass as feedstock. The low cost logging residue feedstock contains mineral impurities such as quartz and K-feldspar which become mixed into the fluidized bed during operation. Using experimental analysis and thermochemical it was found that the layers on olivine and K-feldspar showed a significantly lower agglomeration tendency than quartz. Significant fractionation of particles or their layers could be detected for olivine and quartz, whereas K-feldspar layers were characterized by a higher stability. High catalytic activity is predicted for all three minerals once Ca-rich particle layers are fully developed. However quartz may be less active during the build-up of the layers due to lower amounts of Ca in the initial layer formation.
 

Other papers | 2016

Thermochemische Behandlung eines niederkalorischen Reststoffes zur Gewinnung von Sekundärrohstoffen

Meirhofer M, Dißauer C, Strasser C, Kranner R, Wartha C. Thermochemische Behandlung eines niederkalorischen Reststoffes zur Gewinnung von Sekundärrohstoffen. e-nova 2016 (oral presentation). November 2016, Pinkafeld, Austria.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Toxicological characterization of particulate emissions from straw, Miscanthus, and poplar pellet combustion in residential boilers

Kasurinen S, Jalava PI, Uski O, Happo MS, Brunner T, Mäki-Paakkanen J, Jokiniemi J, Obernberger I, Hirvonen MR. Toxicological characterization of particulate emissions from straw, Miscanthus, and poplar pellet combustion in residential boilers. Aerosol Science and Technology. 2 January 2016;50(1): 41-51.

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Wood pellets have been used in domestic heating appliances for three decades. However, because the share of renewable energy for heating will likely rise over the next several years, alternative biomass fuels, such as short-rotation coppice or energy crops, will be utilized. We tested particulate emissions from the combustion of standard softwood pellets and three alternative pellets (poplar, Miscanthus sp., and wheat straw) for their ability to induce inflammatory, cytotoxic, and genotoxic responses in a mouse macrophage cell line. Our results showed clear differences in the chemical composition of the emissions, which was reflected in the toxicological effects. Standard softwood and straw pellet combustion resulted in the lowest PM1 mass emissions. Miscanthus sp. and poplar combustion emissions were approximately three times higher. Emissions from the herbaceous biomass pellets contained higher amounts of chloride and organic carbon than the emissions from standard softwood pellet combustion. Additionally, the emissions of the poplar pellet combustion contained the highest concentration of metals. The emissions from the biomass alternatives caused significantly higher genotoxicity than the emissions from the standard softwood pellets. Moreover, straw pellet emissions caused higher inflammation than the other samples. Regarding cytotoxicity, the differences between the samples were smaller. Relative toxicity was generally highest for the poplar and Miscanthus sp. samples, as their emission factors were much higher. Thus, in addition to possible technical problems, alternative pellet materials may cause higher emissions and toxicity. The long-term use of alternative fuels in residential-scale appliances will require technological developments in both burners and filtration.

Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Two-stage cultivation of N-rich and N–deprived Acutodesmus obliquus biomass: Influence of cultivation and dewatering methods on microalgal biomass used in anaerobic digestion

Gruber M, Nussbaumer M, Jerney J, Ludwig I, Zohar E, Lang I, Bochmann G, Schagerl M, Obbard JP, Fuchs W, Drosg B. Two-stage cultivation of N-rich and N–deprived Acutodesmus obliquus biomass: Influence of cultivation and dewatering methods on microalgal biomass used in anaerobic digestion. Algal Research. July 2016;17: 105-112.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2016

Valorisation of slaughter house and deinking paper waste streams for the production of enzyme by Trichoderma reesei

Weiss R, Eischer A, Tadic T, Gritsch SM, Ortner M, Prall K, Neunteufel E, Putz RF, Guebitz GM, Nyanhongo GS. Valorisation of slaughter house and deinking paper waste streams for the production of enzyme by Trichoderma reesei. Journal of Cleaner Production. 2020;275:122882

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The study investigates for the first time the possibility of using carbon rich paper recovery sludge, and nitrogen rich meat processing industry waste as cultivation medium for the production of high value enzymes needed in the respective industries. The complex cellulose rich deinking sludge was able to support the growth of many industrially relevant enzyme producing microorganisms (Bacillus licheniformis, Candida cylindracea, Aspergillus oryzae, Trichoderma reesei) and of recombinant enzyme producers (Escherichia coli and Pichia pastoris). Further detailed studies with Trichoderma reesei as model organism demonstrated that the organism was able to grow optimally in the presence of 40gL-1 paper sludge as carbon source and 67.5 gL-1 pasteurised blood as nitrogen source substituted in Mandels medium. Under these conditions cellulase activities up to 28.1 nkat FPU were achieved. Anyhow, to achieve these results pretreatment of both waste streams is inevitable. In summary, this study provides the practical basis for a valorisation systems of paper industry waste to produce valuable enzymes to be used on-site in paper processing or for other purposes.

Conference presentations and posters | 2015

"Investigations on the catalytic activity of bed material coating regarding the water-gas-shift reaction and the steam reforming of model compounds for lighter and heavier hydrocarbons"

Kuba M, Havlik F, Kirnbauer F, Hofbauer H. Investigations on the catalytic activity of bed material coating regarding the water-gas-shift reaction and the steam reforming of model compounds for lighter and heavier hydrocarbons, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (oral presentation)

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Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Acutodesmus obliquus as a benchmark strain for evaluating methane production from microalgae: Influence of different storage and pretreatment methods on biogas yield

Gruber-Brunhumer MR, Jerney J, Zohar E, Nussbaumer M, Hieger C, Bochmann G, Schagerl M, Obbard JP, Fuchs W, Drosg B. Acutodesmus obliquus as a benchmark strain for evaluating methane production from microalgae: Influence of different storage and pretreatment methods on biogas yield. Algal Research. 01 November 2015;12:230-238.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Air staging to reduce emissions from energy crop combustion in small scale applications

Carroll JP, Finnan JM, Biedermann F, Brunner T, Obernberger I. Air staging to reduce emissions from energy crop combustion in small scale applications. Fuel. 2015;155:37-43.

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The results of experimental work to investigate the effects of air staging on emissions from energy crop combustion in small scale applications are presented. Five different biomass fuels (wood, willow, miscanthus, tall fescue and cocksfoot) were combusted in a small scale (35 kW) biomass boiler and three different tests looking at the effects of (1) air ratio in the primary combustion chamber (primary air ratio), (2) temperature in the primary combustion chamber, and (3) overall excess air ratio, on NOx and particulate emissions were conducted. It was shown that by varying the primary air ratio, NOx emission reductions of between 15% (wood) and 30% (Miscanthus) and PM1 reductions of between 16% (cocksfoot) and 26% (wood) were possible. For all fuels, both NOx and particulate emissions were minimised at a primary air ratio of 0.8. Particulate emissions from miscanthus increased with increasing temperature in the primary combustion chamber, NOx emissions from Miscanthus and from willow also increased with temperature. Overall excess air ratio has no effect on emissions as no significant differences were found for any of the fuels. Emissions of particulates and oxides of nitrogen from a wide range of biomass feedstocks can be minimised by optimising the primary air ratio and by maintaining a temperature in the primary combustion chamber of approximately 900 °C.

Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Anaerobic digestion of thermal pretreated brewers' spent grains

Bochmann G, Drosg B, Fuchs W. Anaerobic digestion of thermal pretreated brewers' spent grains. Environmental Progress and Sustainable Energy. 2015;34(4):1092-6.

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Anaerobic digestion offers a good opportunity to degrade residues from breweries to biogas. To improve the anaerobic degradation process thermal pretreatment of brewers' spent grains (BSG) offers the opportunity to increase degradation rate and biogas yield. Aim of the work is to show the influence of the thermal pretreatment of BSG to anaerobic digestion. BSG were pretreated at different temperature levels from 100 to 200°C. The biogas production of thermally pretreated BSG lies between 30 and 40% higher than for untreated reference. The temperature of the pretreatment process has a significant influence on the degradation rate or gas yield, respectively. Up to a temperature of 160°C, the biogas yield rises. Temperatures over 160°C result in a slower degradation and decreasing biogas yield. Substrate with and without pretreatment gave a daily biogas yield of 430 and 389 Nm3 × kg-1 VS, respectively. Batch analysis of the biochemical methane potential gives a total methane yield of 409.8 Nm3 CH4 × kg-1 VS of untreated brewers' spent grains and 467.6 Nm3 CH4 × kg-1 VS of the pretreated samples. For pretreatment energy balance estimation has been carried out. Without any heat recovery demand is higher than the energy surplus resulting from pretreatment of BSG. With energy recovery by heat exchanger the net energy yield could be increased to 38.87 kWh × kg-1 FM or 8.81%. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog.

Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Application of an empirical model in CFD simulations to predict the local high temperature corrosion potential in biomass fired boilers.

Gruber T, Scharler R, Obernberger I. Application of an empirical model in CFD simulations to predict the local high temperature corrosion potential in biomass fired boilers. Biomass and Bioenergy. Volume 79, August 2015, Pages 145-154.

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To gain reliable data for the development of an empirical model for the prediction of the local high temperature corrosion potential in biomass fired boilers, online corrosion probe measurements have been carried out. The measurements have been performed in a specially designed fixed bed/drop tube reactor in order to simulate a superheater boiler tube under well-controlled conditions. The investigated boiler steel 13CrMo4-5 is commonly used as steel for superheater tube bundles in biomass fired boilers. Within the test runs the flue gas temperature at the corrosion probe has been varied between 625 °C and 880 °C, while the steel temperature has been varied between 450 °C and 550 °C to simulate typical current and future live steam temperatures of biomass fired steam boilers. To investigate the dependence on the flue gas velocity, variations from 2 m·s−1 to 8 m·s−1 have been considered. The empirical model developed fits the measured data sufficiently well. Therefore, the model has been applied within a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation of flue gas flow and heat transfer to estimate the local corrosion potential of a wood chips fired 38 MW steam boiler. Additionally to the actual state analysis two further simulations have been carried out to investigate the influence of enhanced steam temperatures and a change of the flow direction of the final superheater tube bundle from parallel to counter-flow on the local corrosion potential.

Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Application of numerical modelling to biomass grate furnaces

Mehrabian R, Shiehnejadhesar A., Scharler R. Application of numerical modelling to biomass grate furnaces. Internation conference on advances in mechanical engineering, Istanbul 2015.

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The direct combustion of the biomass is the most advanced and mature technology in the field of energetic biomass utilisation. The legislations on the amount of emitted pollutants and the plant efficiency of biomass combustion systems are continually being restricted. Therefore constant improvement of the plant efficiency and emission reduction is required Numerical modelling is gaining increasing importance for the development of biomass combustion technologies. In this paper an overview about the numerical modelling efforts deal with the most relevant phenomena in biomass grate firing systems is given. The numerical modelling results in a deeper understanding of the underlying processes in biomass combustion plants. Therefore, it leads to a faster and safer procedure of development of a new technology.

Conference presentations and posters | 2015

AshMelT Project Background – Why this work was necessary

Schwabl M, Wopienka E. AshMelT Workshop “AshMelT Project Background – Why this work was necessary” (held during de World Sustainable Energy Days 2015), 25th-27th of February, Wels, Austria, 2015.

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Other Publications | 2015

Aspects of microalgal biomass as feedstock in biogas plants

Gruber M, Zohar E, Jerney J, Ludwig I, Bochmann G, Nussbaumer L, Montgomery L, Fuchs W, Drosg B, Schöpp T, Obbard JP. Aspects of microalgal biomass as feedstock in biogas plants, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (visual presentation)

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Ausbrandregelung durch zusätzliche Messung des Kohlenmonoxidgehalts im Rauchgas

Bischof J, Gölles M, Obernberger I, Baumbach G. Ausbrandregelung durch zusätzliche Messung des Kohlenmonoxidgehalts im Rauchgas. 27. Deutscher Flammentag. September 2015, Clausthal, Germany.

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Benz(a)pyrene emission measurements in flue gas from residential biomass combustion appliances

Meier F, Schwabl M, Sedlmayer I, Kleinhappl M, Schmidl C, Haslinger W. Benz(a)pyrene emission measurements in flue gas from residential biomass combustion appliances, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (visual presentation)

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Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Bioavailability of essential trace elements and their impact on anaerobic digestion of slaughterhouse waste

Ortner M, Rameder M, Rachbauer L, Bochmann G, Fuchs W. Bioavailability of essential trace elements and their impact on anaerobic digestion of slaughterhouse waste. Biochemical Engineering Journal. 15 July 2015;99:107-113.

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Biomasse der Zukunft – Bioenergie der Zukunft?

Wopienka E. Biomasse der Zukunft – Bioenergie der Zukunft? Internationale Konferenz auf Schloss Weinzierl 2015, 29th of Januar 2015, Wieselburg, Austria.

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Other papers | 2015

Challenges toward model-based control for hybrid biomass-based heating systems

Unterberger V, Gölles M. Challenges toward model-based control for hybrid biomass-based heating systems. e-nova 2015. November 2015, Pinkafeld, Austria. Unterberger V, Gölles M. Challenges toward model-based control for hybrid biomass-based heating systems. Nachhaltige Gebäude, Graz. Leykam. 2015;10:393-404.

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Biomass boilers used for residential heating and hot water supply are typically combined with a buffer storage and solar collectors. However, the annual utilization rates typically achieved with such systems are far below those theoretically possible, which is mainly because of the often poor quality of both the individual control of the components as well as the high-level control of the entire system. The control strategies typically applied consist of simple decou-pled control circuits with linear controllers, which cannot deal with the mostly nonlinear and coupled behaviour of the components and thus do not ensure their reasonable interaction. The most appropriate approach to address these challenges is the application of model-based control techniques. Within the paper an overview of mathematical models suitable for control purposes, a simple to implement load forecasting method as well as control strate-gies for both the individual components and the entire system are presented. Future chal-lenges for a practical implementation of this novel approach are discussed in the outlook sec-tion.

Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Closing the Nutrient Cycle in Two-Stage Anaerobic Digestion of Industrial Waste Streams

Rachbauer L, Gabauer W, Scheidl S, Ortner M, Fuchs W, Bochmann G. Closing the Nutrient Cycle in Two-Stage Anaerobic Digestion of Industrial Waste Streams. Energy Fuels 2015;29(7):4052-4057.

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Industrial waste streams from brewing industries and distilleries provide a valuable but largely unused alternative substrate for biogas production by anaerobic digestion. High sulfur loads in the feed caused by acidic pretreatment to enhance bioavailability are responsible for H2S formation during anaerobic digestion. Microbiological oxidation of H2S provides an elegant technique to remove this toxic gas compound. Moreover, it allows for recovery of sulfuric acid, the final product of aerobic sulfide oxidation, as demonstrated in this study. Two-stage anaerobic digestion of brewer’s spent grains, the major byproduct in the brewing industry, allows for the release of up to 78% of total H2S formed in the first pre-acidification stage. Desulfurization of such pre-acidification gas in continuous acidic biofiltration with immobilized sulfur-oxidizing bacteria resulted in a maximum H2S elimination capacity of 473 g m–3 h–1 at an empty bed retention time of 91 s. Complete H2S removal was achieved at inlet concentrations of up to 6363 ppm. The process was shown to be very robust, and even after an interruption of H2S feeding for 10 days, excellent removal efficiency was immediately restored. A maximum sulfate production rate of 0.14 g L–1 h–1 was achieved, and a peak concentration of 4.18 g/L sulfuric acid was reached. Further experiments addressed the reduction of fresh water and chemicals to minimize process expenses. It was proven that up to 50% of mineral medium that is required in large amounts during microbiological desulfurization can be replaced by the liquid fraction of the digestate. The conducted study demonstrates the viability of microbial sulfur recovery with theoretical recovery rates of up to 44%.

Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Combustion related characterisation of Miscanthus peat blends applying novel fuel characterisation tools

Sommersacher P, Brunner T, Obernberger I, Kienzl N, Kanzian W. Combustion related characterisation of Miscanthus peat blends applying novel fuel characterisation tools. Fuel 2015;158:253-262.

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Control of a Biomass-Furnace Based on Input-Output-Linearization

Schörghuber C, Reichhartinger M, Horn M, Gölles M, Seeber R. Control of a Biomass-Furnace Based on Input-Output-Linearization, European Control Conference 2015, 15th-17th of July 2015, Linz, Austria. p 3513-3518.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Deposit build-up and ash behavior in dual fluid bed steam gasification of logging residues in an industrial power plant

Kuba M, He H, Kirnbauer F, Boström D, Öhman M, Hofbauer H. Deposit build-up and ash behavior in dual fluid bed steam gasification of logging residues in an industrial power plant. Fuel Processing Technology. 25 June 2015;139:33-41.

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A promising way to substitute fossil fuels for production of electricity, heat, fuels for transportation and synthetic chemicals is biomass steam gasification in a dual fluidized bed (DFB). Using lower-cost feedstock, such as logging residues, instead of stemwood, improves the economic operation. In Senden, near Ulm in Germany, the first plant using logging residues is successfully operated by Stadtwerke Ulm. The major difficulties are slagging and deposit build-up. This paper characterizes inorganic components of ash forming matter and draws conclusions regarding mechanisms of deposit build-up. Olivine is used as bed material. Impurities, e.g., quartz, brought into the fluidized bed with the feedstock play a critical role. Interaction with biomass ash leads to formation of potassium silicates, decreasing the melting temperature. Recirculation of coarse ash back into combustion leads to enrichment of critical fragments. Improving the management of inorganic streams and controlling temperature levels is essential for operation with logging residues.

Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Developing a simulation model for a mixed alcohol synthesis reactor and validation of experimental data in IPSEpro

Weber G, Di Giuliano A, Rauch R, Hofbauer H. Developing a simulation model for a mixed alcohol synthesis reactor and validation of experimental data in IPSEpro. Fuel Process Technology. 141:167-176, 2015.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Development and validation of CFD models for gas phase reactions in biomass grate furnaces considering gas streak formation above the packed bed

Shiehnejadhesar A, Mehrabian R, Scharler R, Obernberger I. Development and validation of CFD models for gas phase reactions in biomass grate furnaces considering gas streak formation above the packed bed. Fuel Processing Technology. Volume 139, November 2015, Pages 142–158.

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State-of-the-art packed bed models supply continuous concentration profiles as boundary conditions for subsequent CFD simulations of gas phase, leading to pre-mixed combustion conditions. However, in reality the “porous” nature of the packed bed leads to streak formation influencing gas mixing and combustion. Therefore, in the present work, in order to account for the influence of the streaks on gas phase combustion, a gas streak model based on a correlation between the local gas residence time and a mixing time has been developed based on numerical simulations. Finally, the streak model was linked with an in-housed developed hybrid gas phase combustion model suitable for laminar to highly turbulent flow conditions and applied for an under-feed pellet stoker furnace (20 kWth) concerning the simulation of gas phase combustion and NOx formation. The results in comparison with a simulation without the streak formation model show that the flue gas species prediction can be improved with the proposed streak formation model. Especially, in the region above the fuel bed (in the primary combustion chamber), this is of special importance for NOx reduction by primary measures.

Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Development of a briquette stove with a candle burning principle - characteristics and measurement results

Kirchhof J, Schmidl C, Moser W, Haslinger W. Development of a briquette stove with a candle burning principle - characteristics and measurement results, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (visual presentation)

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Development of a new test method for defining a real life thermal heat output of firewood stoves

Sturmlechner R, Aigenbauer S, Moser W, Schmidl C, Reichert G, Stressler H, Schwabl M, Haslinger W. Development of a new test method for defining a real life thermal heat output of firewood stoves, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (visual presentation)

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Development of a streak formation model for an improved prediction of gas phase combustion in biomass grate furnaces

Shiehnejadhesar A, Mehrabian R, Scharler R, Goldin GM, Obernberger I. Development of a streak formation model for an improved prediction of gas phase combustion in biomass grate furnaces, INFUB 10th European Conference on Industrial Furnace and Boilers 2015, 7th-10th of April 2015, Porto, Portugal.

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State-of-the-art packed bed models supply continuous concentration profiles as boundary conditions for subsequent CFD simulations of gas phase, leading to pre-mixed combustion conditions. However, in reality the “porous” nature of the packed bed leads to streak formation influencing gas mixing and combustion. Therefore, in the present work, in order to account for the influence of the streaks on gas phase combustion, a gas streak model based on a correlation between the local gas residence time and a mixing time has been developed based on numerical simulations. Finally, the streak model was linked with an in-housed developed hybrid gas phase combustion model suitable for laminar to highly turbulent flow conditions and applied for an under-feed pellet stoker furnace (20 kWth) concerning the simulation of gas phase combustion and NOx formation. The results in comparison with a simulation without the streak formation model show that the flue gas species prediction can be improved with the proposed streak formation model. Especially, in the region above the fuel bed (in the primary combustion chamber), this is of special importance for NOx reduction by primary measures.

Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Econometric analysis of the wood pellet market in Austria

Kristöfel C, Strasser C, Morawetz U, Schmid E. Econometric analysis of the wood pellet market in Austria. 12th International Conference On The European Energy Market, 20-22 May 2015. 20 August 2015, Lisbon, Portugal.

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Other Publications | 2015

Effects of pretreatment and storage methods on biomethane potential of different microalgae in anaerobic digestion

Gruber M, Jerney J, Zohar E, Nussbaumer M, Hieger C, Bochmann G, Schagerl M, Obbard JP, Fuchs W, Drosg B. Effects of pretreatment and storage methods on biomethane potential of different microalgae in anaerobic digestion, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (oral presentation)

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Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Efficiency and operational behaviour of small-scale pellet boilers installed in residential buildings

Carlon E, Schwarz M, Golicza L, Verma VK, Prada A, Baratieri M, et al. Efficiency and operational behaviour of small-scale pellet boilers installed in residential buildings. Appl Energy 2015;155:854-865.

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Emission Reduction of Firewood Stoves by Integrated Honeycomb Catalysts

Reichert G, Schmidl C, Schwabl M, Sedlmayer I, Stressler H, Sturmlechner R, Wöhler M, Haslinger W. Emission Reduction of Firewood Stoves by Integrated Honeycomb Catalysts, Word Sustainable Energy Days next 2015, 24th-27th of February 2015, Wels, Austria.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Energy self-supply of large abattoir by sustainable waste utilisation based on anaerobic mono-digestion

Ortner M, Wöss D, Schumergruber A, Pröll T, Fuchs W. Energy self-supply of large abattoir by sustainable waste utilisation based on anaerobic mono-digestion. Applied Energy. 2015;143:460-471.

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Abattoirs have a large number of energy intensive processes. Beside energy supply, disposal costs of animal by-products (ABP) are the main relevant cost drivers. In this study, successful implementation of a new waste and energy management system based on anaerobic digestion is described. Several limitations and technical challenges regarding the anaerobic digestion of the protein rich waste material had to be overcome. The most significant problems were process imbalances such as foaming and floatation as well as high accumulation of volatile fatty acids and low biogas yields caused by lack of essential microelements, high ammonia concentrations and fluctuation in operation temperature. Ultimately, 85% of the waste accumulated during the slaughter process is converted into 2700 MW h thermal and 3200 MW h electrical energy in a biogas combined heat and power (CHP) plant. The thermal energy is optimally integrated into the production process by means of a stratified heat buffer. The energy generated by the biogas CHP-plant can cover a significant share of the energy requirement of the abattoir corresponding to 50% of heat and 60% of electric demand, respectively. In terms of annual cost for energy supply and waste disposal a reduction of 63% from 1.4 Mio € to about 0.5 Mio € could be achieved with the new system. The payback period of the whole investment is approximately 9 years. Beside the economic benefits also the positive environmental impact should be highlighted: a 79% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from 4.5 Mio kg CO2 to 0.9 Mio kg CO2 annually was achieved. The realized concept received the Austrian Energy Globe Award and represents the first anaerobic mono-digestion process of slaughterhouse waste worldwide.

Other Publications | 2015

Entwicklung eines modellbasierten Optimierungsalgorithmus für die Wärmeversorgung mit Biomassefeuerungen

Oberlechner, F. Entwicklung eines modellbasierten Optimierungsalgorithmus für die Wärmeversorgung mit Biomassefeuerungen, Master Thesis, Technische Universität Graz, Graz, Austria, 2015.

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Wärmeversorgungsanlagen von Gebäuden, bestehend aus Biomasse-Feuerung, Solarkollektoren, Pufferspeicher, Heizkreis und Warmwasserzapfstellen gewinnen aufgrund ihrer Nachhaltigkeit zunehmend an Bedeutung. In den letzten Jahren wurden insbesondere für eine effiziente Regelung der Biomasse-Feuerung sehr gute Konzepte entwickelt. Diese können jedoch zumeist aufgrund unzureichender, übergeordneter Systemregelungen nicht ihr volles Potential ausschöpfen. In ihrer primitivsten Ausführung schaltet eine Systemregelung die Biomasse-Feuerung anhand der Ladehöhe des Pufferspeichers aus und ein. Diese Art der Regelung hat unweigerlich viele Ein-/ Ausschaltvorgänge der Feuerung, sowie eine schlechte Ausnutzung des solaren Eintrags zur Folge. Insbesondere bei Biomasse-Feuerungen sind Ein-/ Ausschaltvorgänge äußerst unwirtschaftlich und führen zu stark erhöhten Schadstoffemissionen. Die häufigen Ein-/ Ausschaltvorgänge verursachen zusätzlich erhöhte Wartungs- und Betriebskosten und schlussendlich eine verkürzte Lebensdauer zahlreicher Komponenten. Um die Ein-/ Ausschaltvorgänge zu minimieren und den solaren Eintrag zu steigern, soll im Rahmen dieser Arbeit ein übergeordnetes, modellprädiktives Regelungskonzept für die gesamte Wärmeversorgungsanlage entwickelt werden. Nach einer theoretischen Einführung in gemischt-ganzzahlige Optimalsteuerungsprobleme sowie ausgewählter Lösungsmethoden werden Prädiktionsmodelle für alle Komponenten der Wärmeversorgungsanlage entwickelt. Aufbauend auf den mathematischen Modellen für die einzelnen Komponenten der Anlage wird eine nichtlineare modellprädiktive Regelung entwickelt. Diese berücksichtigt zusätzlich Wetterprognosen sowie die erwartete Lastabnahme und führt schlussendlich zu einer Minimierung des Brennstoffverbrauchs sowie der Anzahl der Ein-/ Ausschaltvorgänge. Den Abschluss der Arbeit bilden ausführliche Simulationsstudien mit unterschiedlichen Wetterszenarien sowie Vergleiche mit herkömmlichen Regelungsstrategien.  

Other papers | 2015

Experimental and modeling study of hydrogen production from catalytic steam reforming of methane mixture with hydrogen sulfide

Sadooghi P, Rauch R. Experimental and modeling study of hydrogen production from catalytic steam reforming of methane mixture with hydrogen sulfide. Int J Hydrogen Energy 2015;40(33):10418-10426.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Experimental validation of a thermodynamic boiler model under steady state and dynamic conditions

Carlon E, Verma VK, Schwarz M, Golicza L, Prada A, Baratieri M, et al. Experimental validation of a thermodynamic boiler model under steady state and dynamic conditions. Appl Energy. 2015;138:505-16.

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Nowadays dynamic building simulation is an essential tool for the design of heating systems for residential buildings. The simulation of buildings heated by biomass systems, first of all needs detailed boiler models, capable of simulating the boiler both as a stand-alone appliance and as a system component. This paper presents the calibration and validation of a boiler model by means of laboratory tests. The chosen model, i.e. TRNSYS "Type 869", has been validated for two commercially available pellet boilers of 6 and 12. kW nominal capacities. Two test methods have been applied: the first is a steady state test at nominal load and the second is a load cycle test including stationary operation at different loads as well as transient operation. The load cycle test is representative of the boiler operation in the field and characterises the boiler's stationary and dynamic behaviour. The model had been calibrated based on laboratory data registered during stationary operation at different loads and afterwards it was validated by simulating both the stationary and the dynamic tests. Selected parameters for the validation were the heat transfer rates to water and the water temperature profiles inside the boiler and at the boiler outlet. Modelling results showed better agreement with experimental data during stationary operation rather than during dynamic operation. Heat transfer rates to water were predicted with a maximum deviation of 10% during the stationary operation, and a maximum deviation of 30% during the dynamic load cycle. However, for both operational regimes the fuel consumption was predicted within a 10% deviation from the experimental values. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd.

Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Forecasting the Pellet Boiler Stock in Austria until 2030 and Assessing the Potential to Reduce GHG Emissions and Substitute Fossil Fuels

Karner K, Schmid E, Strasser C, Kristöfel C, Enigl M. Forecasting the Pellet Boiler Stock in Austria until 2030 and Assessing the Potential to Reduce GHG Emissions and Substitute Fossil Fuels, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (visual presentation)

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Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Heat pump enhanced heat recovery from flue gas of wood chips combustion

Hebenstreit B, Schwabl M, Höftberger E, Kronberger B, Gappmayr B, Gautsch H, Lundgren J, Toffolo A. Heat pump enhanced heat recovery from flue gas of wood chips combustion, INFUB 10th European Conference on Industrial Furnace and Boilers 2015, 7th-10th of April 2015, Porto, Portugal.

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Other papers | 2015

Hydrogen from the high temperature water gas shift reaction with an industrial Fe/Cr catalyst using biomass gasification tar rich synthesis gas

Chianese, S, Loipersböck J, Malits M, Rauch R, Hofbauer H, Molino A, Musmarra D. Hydrogen from the high temperature water gas shift reaction with an industrial Fe/Cr catalyst using biomass gasification tar rich synthesis gas. Fuel Processing Technology. 2015;132:39-48.

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The high temperature water gas shift reaction (HTS) over an iron/chromium (Fe/Cr) industrial catalyst was investigated in a pilot scale plant consisting of two fixed-bed reactors arranged in series and a biomass-derived tar-rich synthesis gas was used as a feed-stream. CO conversion and selectivity for the water gas shift reaction were evaluated through parameter variation. Four dry gas hourly space velocities (GHSv) and two steam to dry synthesis gas ratios (H2O/SGd) equal to 52% v/v and 60% v/v were investigated at temperatures (T) of 350–450 °C. CO conversion was investigated by varying H2S concentration 180–540 ppmv (dry basis) at a temperature of 425 °C, considering two GHSVd. The highest CO conversion (~ 83%) was observed in the basis case at 60% v/v H2O/SGd, and 450 °C. The catalyst appeared to be resistant to sulfur poisoning deactivation, and achieved 48% CO conversion at the maximum H2S concentration used.

Other papers | 2015

Hydrogen from the high temperature water gas shift reaction with an industrial Fe/Cr catalyst using biomass gasification tar rich synthesis gas

Chianese S, Loipersböck J, Malits M, Rauch R, Hofbauer H, Molino A, et al. Hydrogen from the high temperature water gas shift reaction with an industrial Fe/Cr catalyst using biomass gasification tar rich synthesis gas. Fuel Process Technol 2015;132:39-48.

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Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Implementation of a firebed cooling device and its influence on emissions and combustion parameters at a residential wood pellet boiler

Gehrig M, Pelz SK, Jaeger D, Hofmeister G, Groll A, Thorwarth H, Haslinger W. Implementation of a firebed cooling device and its influence on emissions and combustion parameters at a residential wood pellet boiler. Applied Energy. 01 December 2015;159: 310-316.

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This study investigates the general concept of reduced firebed temperatures in residential wood pellet boilers. Residential wood pellet boiler development is more and more concerned with inorganic aerosols characterized by a temperature-dependent release from the firebed. Hence, different concepts are applied aiming to reduce firebed temperatures. Unfortunately, these concepts influence not only firebed temperatures, but also other important parameters like air flow rates which may cause unwanted side effects with respect to combustion quality or efficiency. Thus, a new approach was developed solely affecting firebed temperature by implementing a water-based firebed cooling in a 12 kW underfeed pellet boiler. The effectiveness of the cooling was monitored by comprehensive temperature measurement in the firebed. The cooling capacity ranged from 0.4 kW to 0.5 kW resulted in a significant decrease of firebed temperatures. Gaseous emissions remain stable showing no significant changes in major components (O2, CO2, NOx). Furthermore, CO emissions were even reduced significantly by the activated cooling, which was supposedly caused by a stabilized devolatilization due to the firebed cooling. Moreover, the temperature-dependent release of aerosol forming elements was influenced at activated firebed cooling, which is proved by a decrease of 17 wt% of dust (Total Suspended Particles; TSP). At the same time the gaseous emissions of HCl increase, supposedly by a reduced potassium release from the firebed to the gas phase and a subsequently different particle formation. The general concept of reduced firebed temperatures proved to be successful decreasing overall aerosol emissions without impacting combustion quality.

Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Influence of bed material coatings on the water-gas-shift reaction and steam reforming of toluene as tar model compound of biomass gasification

Kuba M, Havlik F, Kirnbauer F, Hofbauer H. Influence of bed material coatings on the water-gas-shift reaction and steam reforming of toluene as tar model compound of biomass gasification. Biomass and Bioenergy. 7 August 2015;89:40-49

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A promising technology replacing fossil energy carriers for the production of electricity, heat, fuels for transportation and synthetic chemicals is steam gasification of biomass in a dual fluid bed (DFB). The principle of this technology is the separation into a gasification and a combustion reactor. Bed material, nowadays olivine, circulates between them, and has two functions. It acts as a heat carrier from the combustion to the gasification zone and as catalyst regarding gasification reactions. Today, an alternative to olivine does yet not exist.

In this work, experiments in a lab-scale test rig were performed investigating the catalytic activity of different fresh and used bed materials, such as olivine and quartz. The enhancement of the catalytic activity due to particle coatings was tested regarding the water-gas-shift reaction and steam reforming of toluene. Calcite is known as an active material in this respect and is therefore used as a benchmark substance.

Experiments revealed a correlation between the catalytic activity of bed particle coatings towards both the water-gas-shift reaction and the reduction of toluene by steam reforming. Results showed bed material particles with a calcium (Ca)-rich layer achieve satisfactory conversion of carbon monoxide and reduction of toluene. Furthermore, a qualitative comparison regarding hydrogen production relative to the benchmark material CaO is given for the water-gas-shift and steam reforming of toluene and ethene - used as model substance for lighter hydrocarbons. These results are the basis for further research on the catalytic properties of potential bed materials for DFB gasification of biomass.

Other papers | 2015

Influence of ethylene on the formation of mixed alcohols over a MoS2 catalyst using biomass-derived synthesis gas

Weber G, Rauch R, Hofbauer H. Influence of ethylene on the formation of mixed alcohols over a MoS2 catalyst using biomass-derived synthesis gas. Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery. 2015;5(1):85-94.

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Innovative room heating technologies

Schmidl C. Innovative room heating technologies, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (oral presentation)

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Integration of Oxidative Honeycomb Catalysts in Firewood Stoves - Perfomance Analysis, Safety Aspects and Long Term Durability

Reichert G, Schmidl C, Schwabl M, Stressler H, Sturmlechner R, Haslinger W. Integration of Oxidative Honeycomb Catalysts in Firewood Stoves - Perfomance Analysis, Safety Aspects and Long Term Durability, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (oral presentation)

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Peer reviewed papers | 2015

Investigation of the corrosion behaviour of 13CrMo4-5 for biomass fired boilers with coupled online corrosion and deposit probe measurements

Gruber T, Schulze K, Scharler R, Obernberger I. Investigation of the corrosion behaviour of 13CrMo4-5 for biomass fired boilers with coupled online corrosion and deposit probe measurements. Fuel. 2015;144:15-24.

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High-temperature corrosion in biomass fired boilers is still an insufficiently explored phenomenon which causes unscheduled plant shutdowns and hence, economical problems. To investigate the high-temperature corrosion and deposit formation behaviour of superheater tube bundles, online corrosion probe as well as deposit probe measurements have been carried out in a specially designed fixed bed/drop tube reactor in order to simulate a superheater boiler tube under well-controlled conditions. The investigated boiler steel 13CrMo4-5 is commonly used as steel for superheater tube bundles in biomass fired boilers. Forest wood chips and quality sorted waste wood (A1-A2 according to German standards) as relevant fuels have been selected to investigate the influence on the deposit formation and corrosion behaviour. The following influencing parameter variations have been performed during the test campaigns: flue gas temperature between 650 and 880°C, steel temperature between 450 and 550°C and flue gas velocity between 2 and 8 m/s. One focus of the work presented is the detailed investigation of the structure and the chemical composition of the deposits formed as well as of the corrosion products. A further goal of the work presented was the development of an empirical model which can be used within CFD simulations of flow and heat transfer to calculate and evaluate the local corrosion potential of biomass fired plants already at the planning stage. The corrosion probe measurements show a clear dependency on the parameters investigated and the empirical function developed reproduces the measured corrosion behaviour sufficiently accurate. Since the additional calculation time within the CFD simulation is negligible the model represents a helpful tool for plant designers to estimate whether high-temperature corrosion is of relevance for a certain plant or not, when using fuels with similar compositions and the steel 13CrMo4-5. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Other papers | 2015

Investigations on the catalytic activity of bed material coating regarding the water-gas-shift reaction and the steam reforming of model compounds for lighter and heavier hydrocarbons

Kuba M, Havlik F, Kirnbauer F, Hofbauer H. Investigations on the catalytic activity of bed material coating regarding the water-gas-shift reaction and the steam reforming of model compounds for lighter and heavier hydrocarbons. 23rd European Biomass Conference & Exhibition (oral presentation). June 2015, Vienna, Austria.

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Other Publications | 2015

Life cycle analysis of small scale pellet boilers characterized by high efficiency and low emissions

Monteleone B, Chiesa M, Marzuoli R, Verma VK, Schwarz M, Carlon E, Schmidl C, Ballarin Denti A. Life cycle analysis of small scale pellet boilers characterized by high efficiency and low emissions. Applied Energy. 1 October 2015;155:160-170.

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Other papers | 2015

Liquid biofuels from biomass steam gasification

Rauch R. Liquid biofuels from biomass steam gasification. 23rd European Biomass Conference & Exhibition, side event Austrian Day (oral presentation). June 2015, Vienna, Austria.

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Long-Term Monitoring of Pellet Boilers Installed in Residential Buildings: Efficiency and Operational Behaviour

Carlon E, Schwarz M, Verma VK, Schmidl C, Baratieri M. Long-Term Monitoring of Pellet Boilers Installed in Residential Buildings: Efficiency and Operational Behaviour, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (oral presentation)

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Mathematical model of an absorption based flue gas heat recovery

Hebenstreit B, Lichtenegger K, Schnetzinger R, Höftberger E, Schmidl C, Lundgren J, Toffolo A. Mathematical model of an absorption based flue gas heat recovery, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (visual presentation)

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Mikrobielle Kontamination als Ursache für Fehlgerüche bei der Lagerung von Holzpellets

Pöllinger-Zierler P, Sedlmayer I, Reinisch C, Siegmund B, Wopienka E, Pointner C, Haslinger W. Mikrobielle Kontamination als Ursache für Fehlgerüche bei der Lagerung von Holzpellets, European Pellet Conference 2015, 25th-26th of Feburary 2015, Wels, Austria.

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Model based control of a biomass fired steam boiler

Zemann C, Unterberger V, Gölles M. Model based control of a biomass fired steam boiler. 19. Steirisches Seminar über Regelungstechnik und Prozessautomatisierung. September 2015, Wagna, Austria.

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Other Publications | 2015

Modellbildung und Regelung von Biomasse-Feuerungsanlagen

Schörghuber, C. Modellbildung und Regelung von Biomasse-Feuerungsanlagen, Ph.D. Thesis, Technische Universität Graz, Graz, Austria, 2015.

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Nachhaltige Versorgungs und Wertschöpfungsketten

Strasser C. Nachhaltige Versorgungs und Wertschöpfungsketten, "Biomasse der Zukunft" - Internationale Konferenz auf Schloss Weinzierl 2015, 29th of Januar 2015, Wieselburg, Austria.

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Natural ventilation measures for CO off-gassing in small pellet storages

Emhofer W, Lichtenegger K, Haslinger W, Sedlmayer I. Natural ventilation measures for CO off-gassing in small pellet storages, Word Sustainable Energy Days next 2015, 24th-27th of February 2015, Wels, Austria.

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Other papers | 2015

Numerical modelling of biomass grate furnaces with a particle based model

Mehrabian R, Shiehnejadhesar A, Scharler R, Obernberger I. Numerical modelling of biomass grate furnaces with a particle based model, INFUB 10th European Conference on Industrial Furnace and Boilers 2015, 7th-10th of April 2015, Porto, Portugal.

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Reports | 2015

Nutrient recovery by biogas digestate processing

Drosg B, Fuchs W, Al Seadi T, Madsen M, Linke B. Nutrient recovery by biogas digestate processing. IEA Bioenergy (2015): 7-11

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Conference presentations and posters | 2015

Operation and Efficiency of a Wood-Pellet Fired 5 KWel Stirling

Aigenbauer S, Schnetzinger R, Höftberger E, Schmidl C, Haslinger W. Operation and Efficiency of a Wood-Pellet Fired 5 KWel Stirling, 23rd European Biomass Conference 2015, 1st-4th of June 2015, Vienna, Austria. (visual presentation)

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