Critical review of predictive coefficients for biomass ash deposition tendency

This paper presents an overview of indices or coefficients commonly used in the literature to predict biomass slagging and fouling tendencies in order to compare them and apply them to several types of biomass having different origins. The results show no relationship or predictive trend among the existing indices when applied to biomass fuels. Indeed, the contradictory findings come to demonstrate that further research and experimental tests under real conditions are needed to create or validate any of these indices. These coefficients should base on results from real combustion experiences, considering the influence of the combustion conditions and technologies, the heterogeneity of solid biomass fuels, and their physicochemical characterization.