One way of representing the size and shape of biomass particles in combustion modeling

Abstract

This study aims to provide a geometrical description of biomass particles that can be used in combustion models. The particle size of wood and herbaceous biomass was compared using light microscope, 2D dynamic imaging, laser diffraction, sieve analysis and focused beam reflectance measurement. The results from light microscope and 2D dynamic imaging analysis were compared and it showed that the data on particle width, measured by these two techniques, were identical. Indeed, 2D dynamic imaging was found to be the most convenient particle characterization method, providing information on both the shape and the external surface area. Importantly, a way to quantify all three dimensions of biomass particles has been established. It was recommended to represent a biomass particle in combustion models as an infinite cylinder with the volume-to-surface ratio (V/A) measured using 2D dynamic imaging.