Main technology development on methanol production from biomass is identified to the conversion of solid fuel (wood) to synthesis gas. In this field CESP is developing a gasifier using electricity to supply energy for endothermic gasification reactions. Since 1980 two electrothermal gasifiers were constructed. The G-3 with 300 Nm3/h capacity, where main parameters, such as geometry, electrodes and process control were identified. After that the G-5 with 600 Nm3/h were projected and constructed applying the same electric heating concept, but with modified electrode and gas output geometry, in order to improve wood to gas conversion rate, as well as, the gas composition. The gasifier is a typical downdraft system producing good synthesis gas with negligible tar content. The performance of the G-5 along 8 runs accumulating 5000 hours of operation is presented. Although the development of the gasifier is directed to methanol production it is identified in the Brazilian case that there is a good potential to substitue LPG and Diesel Oil in industrial applications. Plants with electrical and wood facilities has, in this work, a strategic aspect. Combustion of synthesis gas were obtained in bench furnace tests and analysis is presented. The burner was adapted in order to accept a fuel gas with medium heat value and high hydrogen content.
Electrothermal wood gasification for methanol production
Elektrothermische Holzvergasung zur Methanolerzeugung
7th Int. Symp. on Alcohol Fuels, Inst. Francais du Petrole ; 1 , Okt ; 88-91
1986
4 Seiten, 5 Bilder, 3 Tabellen
Conference paper
English