Biomass Conversion Technology for Renewable Energy Generation:Analysis, Selection and Testing

MANRIQUE S.; FRANCO J.

Research Signspot

Lugar: Kerala; Año: 2013 p. 40

978-81-308-0527-6

Lerma Valley (Salta, Argentina) has a biomass supply that might be used for bioenergy generation (thermal and electrical applications). Nevertheless, there are no guidelines for theselection of feasible technological devices for the area. The aims of this study were: to identify and to evaluate technologies of bioenergy conversion, and to design, to measure and to build a useful device for electricity generation. The methodology applied was performed through surveys to international experts and local participation. Five technologies were compared by means of six criteria defined in a decision matrix. The Stirling engine wasselected for local tests, building it with available pieces on the local market. The prototype, though of low power (30W) and efficiency, works correctly and it allowed surveying key design and operation parameters. Improvement guidelines are offered and the need forfurther investigation and experimentation is stated.