Biomass Gasification for H2 Production

Biomass is a sustainable energy source that has been used for thousands of years. New technologies provide a way harness this energy source more efficiently and cleaner than ever before. Biomass gasification is the process of converting biomass, like woodchips, sawdust, switch grass etc., to a usable gaseous fuel. Conventional downdraft gasifiers produce a low energy gas that is not suitable for storage or transportation. By using a dual fluidized bed type gasifier, a medium grade gas can be produced that is rich in H2. As the figure shows, dual fluidized beds separate the combustion products from the gasification products leading to a much higher quality product gas. The product can be used for power generation, conversion to liquid fuel or H2 production. This type of gasification can provide a sustainable path to producing H2 for new and exciting technologies. Research being performed at ESC will take this technology one step closer to mainstream implementation.