Energy Carriers

Biomass Derived Energy Carriers As Fuels In Engines And Fuel Cells

From the article:

This paper reviews the use of biomass for power generation using IC engines or fuel cells. The different types of biomass and common features among them are examined. Their use in power generation is reviewed and gasification has been identified as a suitable means of electrical power generation for a wide variety of biomass. Some principles of gasification has been discussed and the requirements of quality of gas produced has been identified. The use of prouder gas in IC engines has been explored and it has been shown that power generation through this route has reached commercial .scale of operation. Not only is the operation economical, hut the emission levels prescribed for power plants in various countries can easily be met with using producer gas engines. Different types of fuel cells available today have also been discussed and it is shown that two tapes, namely, molten carbonate and solid oxide fuel cells are suitable for operating with producer gas. Fuel cells, though have possibility of potentially high efficiency compared to IC' engines, have not .vet reached commercial operation and their use with producer gas has not been adequately explored.