Integration of SRF and carbonization plant for small forestry farms

A continuous oxidative carbonization pilot unit, with a capacity of 50 kg/h,has been developed and builtby RE-CORD; reported performance data shows that the unit can produce high quality charcoal, suitable for BBQ, metallurgy of activated-carbon manufacturing, as well as biochar. Charcoal yield in excess of 24 wt% (dry) has been achieved, with a fixed carbon content higher than 85 wt% (dry). In this work,the up-scaled 250 kg/h demo plant has been designed, and the construction, operation and maintenancecosts estimated. It was assumed to feed the plant with a dedicated SRF of either poplar or robinia, which represents a very innovative and yet unexplored value chain. Performance data are reported along with economic evaluation of the whole chain. Results shows how aland management scheme based on SRF coupled to innovative small-scale biomass carbonization technology represents an appealing opportunity for business diversification in small and medium forestry enterprises.