Torrefaction is a process not very well known, however this is the future of the biomass sold fuels market. Torrefaction is a thermal process to increase the energy density of the raw material, and give it several other benefits.
The video below is from New York State University carrying out Torrefaction tests on wood. Basically the wood is heated to around 300 degrees. At this temperature the wood looses almost all moisture and other volatiles. The benefits of Torrefaction include:
1. A very low moisture content
2. A smokeless fuel which also has no smell
3. A water resistant fuel
Through then creating pellets from Torrefaction materials means the energy density of the fuel can be increased further. For example one torrefied pellet provides the same heat as two normal wood pellets. For example if you usually use 3 tonnes of pellets a year that is reduced to 1.5 tonnes of torrefied pellets. There will be more on torrefied fuel pellets in the future.
To learn more about burning pellets and pellet stoves such as the Whitfield pellet stove, please click the banner below.
