Improved bulk density of bamboo pellets as biomass for energy production

To the best of our knowledge, there is the lack of sufficient information concerning bamboo pellets. In the preliminary research, bamboo pellets showed a low bulk density which could not meet requirement of Pellet Fuels Institute Standard Specification for Residential/Commercial Densified (PFI). To improve its bulk density, pellets were manufactured using mixtures of bamboo and pine particles and the properties were investigated. It was found that adding pine particles to bamboo particles was an effective way to improve bulk density of bamboo pellets. When adding 40% pine particles to bamboo particles, bulk density of pellets increased from 0.54 g/cm3 to 0.60 g/cm3, meeting grade requirement of PFI utility. Furthermore, length, diameter and inorganic ash of pellets were also improved. Fine contents of pellets decreased from premium grade to utility grade according to PFI standard. Net calorific value also slightly decreased but it could meet the requirement of DIN 51731 (>17,500 J/g). The effect of this interaction on bulk density, inorganic ash, Net calorific value, combustion rate and heat release rate were significant. The results from this research will be very helpful to develop bamboo pellets and provide guidelines for further research. © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.