Biomass Gasification

Overview

The term biomass generally refers to renewable organic matter generated by plants through photosynthesis in which the solar energy combines carbon dioxide and moisture to form carbohydrates and oxygen.

Biomass generally have high moisture and volatile matter constituents and low bulk density and calorific value. Sources of biomass includes :-
	Oil palm waste such as EFB (Empty Fruit Bunch), fiber, shell, trunk and frond
	Wood chips and sawdust
	Rice husk
	Bagasse
	Groundnut shells
	Coffee husk
	Straws
	Coconut shells
	Corn cobs etc

Biomass gasification is basically conversion of solid fuels (wood/ wood-waste, agricultural residues etc.) into a combustible gas mixture normally called Producer Gas.

The process is typically used for various biomass materials and it involves partial combustion of such biomass.

Partial combustion process occurs when air supply (O2) is less than adequate for the combustion of biomass to be completed.

The gasifier is essentially a chemical reactor where various complex physical and chemical processes take place.