Torrefaction of cultivation residue of Auricularia auricula-judae to obtain biochar with enhanced fuel properties

Auricularia auricula-judae, commonly known as the wood ear, is a species of edible Auriculariales fungus. Torrefactions of cultivation residues of A. auricula-judae (CRAA) at different temperatures and residence times are carried out. Effect of different torrefaction conditions on the mass and energy yields, elemental composition, heating value, thermal properties; and chemical, crystal and morphological structures of biochars are analyzed. Low torrefaction temperatures could not enhance the fuel properties as expected. Crystallinities of biochars derived from mild torrefaction conditions do not have a suitable variation trend because of the unstable degrees between degradation and recrystallization. Torrefaction of CRAA should be processed under severe conditions, such as 320 °C for 60 min and 280 °C for 120 min, in order to obtain enhanced biochar properties with DTGmax at low peak temperatures of 367 and 361 °C, as well high burnout temperatures of 528 and 530 °C, respectively.