Torrefaction of bamboo under nitrogen atmosphere: Influence of temperature and time on the structure and properties of the solid product

• Bamboo was torrefied under nitrogen atmosphere at 220–280 °C for 10–60 min.
• Only 2.20% xylan was detected in the sample torrefied at 280 °C for 60 min.
• The energy yield of the sample after torrefaction was over 90%.
• Bamboo became hydrophobic after torrefaction evidenced by low absorbed moisture.
• Torrefaction produced a good feedstock for the application in burning.

Torrefaction of bamboo was performed in a horizontal tubular reactor under nitrogen atmosphere at 220, 240, 260, and 280 °C for 10, 30, and 60 min, respectively. It was found that with an increase of the severity of torrefaction, the mass yield and energy yield decreased while the high heating value increased. Due to the release of hydroxyl groups, the torrefied bamboo became more hydrophobic and the maximum content of absorbed moisture was reduced by 53.89%. The elemental components of torrefied bamboo tended to that of coal since carbon content was enriched with the increase of torrefaction severity. The removal of hemicelluloses and the enrichment of lignin produced samples with more uniform quality. This study suggested that torrefaction of bamboo under nitrogen produced a good feedstock for the application in burning.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide