The Patrig is the pilot torrefaction plant  at ECN, consisting of the innovative moving bed reactor, the torgas recycle loop and the accompanying heat integration. It is able to convert typically 50-100 kg/hr of fuel in an oxygen free atmosphere at temperatures up to approximately 300°C. Solid fuel residence times typically are long, and can be set up to approximately 30-45 minutes.  The pilot plant at ECN has been built to demonstrate the torrefaction step of the BO2-technology.

BO2 torrefaction technology

Torrefaction is the process of mild pyrolysis between 200-300°C. The Energy research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN) has developed a torrefaction-based technology for biomass upgrading into high-quality solid fuel, called BO2-technology. It consists of an innovative torrefaction technology concept in combination with densification. It enables energy-efficient and cost-effective production of 2nd generation fuel pellets with superior properties in terms of high energy density, excellent grindability and water repellant nature, enabling outdoor storage. Together with industrial partners, the technology is now in the demonstration phase, to be followed by global market introduction.

Production of high quality torrefaction pellets

The quality of torrefaction pellets depends on the biomass feedstock and the torrefaction and pelletisation production conditions. The quality can be tuned to the requirements set by the logistics chain and the end-user. ECN offers to produce on demand pellets from any biomass feedstock that can be processed in the reactor under well-controlled torrefaction conditions. Upon request, products can be delivered in non-pelletized form as well.

Quantities up to several kilograms per set of conditions are produced in bench-scale equipment. Production of up to several tones is performed in a 50-100 kg/hr continuous Patrig torrefaction reactor. Products can be produced under well controlled conditions for different sets of conditions. Optionally the condensable volatiles can be recovered for further investigations. 

Assessment

Over the last ten years, ECN gained extensive knowledge with respect to torrefaction and densification, including the requirements set by logistics and end-use applications like combustion and gasification. ECN offers to assist in the assessment of the different end-use applications and the demands that these set to the quality of torrefaction pellets. This can include the often done characterization of samples produced by third parties.

More information

Together with you, ECN can discuss and put together a test programme that covers a variety of operating conditions to meet your requirements. For information about production of batches of BO2-pellets, assessment of logistics and end-use performance and about BO2-technology demonstration and market introduction, please contact: