Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

Biomass, as one of the largest sources of energy in the world, is third only to coal and oil. The advantage of being CO2-neutral makes biomass a dominant choice for the replacement of fossil fuels as the concern of global warming increases. Biomass can be converted to various forms of energy through thermochemical processes such as pyrolysis and gasification. Despite the importance of biomass as a source of energy, the field of biomass conversion is, effectively, in its scientific infancy.     We request two pieces of equipment: 1) an Organic Elemental Analyzer, and 2) a TGA/DSC Analyzer. The aim of the requested equipment is to support a comprehensive integrated research program in production of value-added products from biomass waste using thermochemical conversion methods, such as pyrolysis and gasification. We need the elemental analyzer for the determination of the carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen of feedstocks, intermediate materials, and also final products. Thermogravimetry (TGA) is a technique that measures the change in weight of a sample as it is heated, cooled, or held at a constant temperature. The attached DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimeter) to TGA, measures the heat capacities and phase transition of the materials.     Most of the greenhouse gas emissions causing climate change are associated with the burning of fossil fuels. Canada and many other countries have pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but are having difficulty in meeting their commitments. The technology of the conversion of biomass to syngas and bio-oil via pyrolysis and gasification will be based on processes that are not only efficient and effective, but also economical and environmentally sustainable. It will fulfill our aim of developing a long-term greenhouse gas mitigation technology with specific focus on the energy sector. This will establish Canada as the pioneer country for reduction of CO2 emissions on a global scale. The results of this project will be of use to energy sectors as they continue to review possible technologies to utilize waste biomass while reducing CO2 emissions.