Torrefaction process optimization of agriwaste for energy densification

The current research involves the optimum energy densification of two indigenous residual biomass (corncob and rice husk) in Pakistan through torrefaction. Effect of temperature along with time was studied to determine optimum torrefaction conditions for quality densification. The energy yield gain through torrefaction at optimum conditions (250°C, 30 m`in) was 115.32% in corncob that is 19.62% more than rice husk attributed to its more hemicellulose and cellulose content. Therefore, torrefaction favored corncob composition more and energy density was improved from 1.20 to 1.48. Higher quality densification was achieved through torrefaction due to its favorable composition, hence can be utilized as an efficient energy source.