Biomass gasification for small size electric power generation

During the last few years, gasification of lignocellulosics has been reconsidered thanks to the implementation of new technologies. The aim of the present work was to analyse the operating characteristics, performances and stability of a gasification plant, by changing operating conditions (power and characteristic of biomass), focusing on the optimisation of the working conditions of the system engine-gasifier to reduce the energy consumption and pollution. During experimental tests several running parameters: consumption, efficiency, energy production, gas production and composition, pressure and temperature along the plant, internal gasifier profile of temperature, dust, char e tar emissions of gasifier, mechanical working parameter of engine have been measured directly and indirectly. Furthermore, an economic analysis has been attempted to obtain a cost of energy (LC Levelised Cost of energy) product and its sensibility to variation of each item cost as work, biomass cost, plant cost, discount rate and variation of plant efficiency and availability. In addition the electric energy cost of gasification system and a generating set have been compared. Gasification of lignocellulusic residues with a simple, easy to hand plant, so that different types of biomasses are used, can be an interesting option, economically interesting for developing countries and small farm in rural and isolated areas.