Characterization of a Downdraft Gasifier Fueled by Bamboo - A Pilot Project in Mexico

Abstract

Biomass gasification is a promising technology for using local feedstock to produce synthesis gas that can be applied for electricity production. Different biomasses can be utilized for the process and this study concentrates on energetic valorisation of bamboo in Mexico. Another objective of this thesis is to find the optimal process variables to guarantee the production of a good quality synthesis gas in a downdraft gasifier that is being built for the project. A software program called Thermoflex is used for this purpose. The simulation results show that bamboo is a satisfactory fuel for a downdraft gasifier. The heating value of the synthesis gas, cold gas efficiency and the system efficiency are in the normal range according to literature references. The experimentally obtained results show however that the process is not well controlled yet. Thus, improvements and more test runs based on the results found in this thesis must be carried out in order to obtain a stable gas production and good quality synthesis gas.