Biomass storage: an update on industrial solutions for baled biomass feedstocks. Issue 3 (May 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Darr, Matthew J; Shah, Ajay
• Is Part Of: Biofuels. Volume 3:Issue 3(2012)
• Page Start: 321
• Page End: 332
• Publication Date: 2012-05
• Subjects: Biomass energy -- Periodicals; 662.8805
• DOI: 10.4155/bfs.12.23
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1759-7269

Abstract

Storage of raw biomass feedstocks is a critical component in a viable biofuels supply chain. This article focuses on the current knowledge and existing challenges to establishing a sufficient biomass storage infrastructure to meet the long-term needs of the biofuels industry. Effects of storage on feedstock stability and biomass quality, with regards to dry-matter loss and self-heating characteristics of stored biomass, have been thoroughly discussed. Features, suitability and costs of different commercial-scale biomass storage infrastructures for open, tarped, permanent structure and anaerobic storage systems are discussed in detail. Additionally, discussions include supply-chain characteristics, including feedstock handling, bale density and quality, and identification and traceability of feedstock, which impact storage and transportation interaction.