Related Experiment Videos
Physical separation of straw stem components to reduce silica
J Richard Hess1, David N Thompson, Reed L Hoskinson
1Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory, PO Box 1625, Idaho Falls, ID 83415, USA. jrh@inel.gov
Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology
|May 2, 2003
Summary
Harvesting only straw stems physically separates silica-rich components, reducing slag and corrosion issues for bioenergy production. This method also enhances soil health by returning valuable organic matter and nutrients to the field.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Biomass Energy
- Materials Science
Background:
- Straw utilization for bioenergy and bioproducts faces challenges due to silica and chloride content.
- Silica forms low-melting eutectics with potassium, leading to slag deposits.
- Chlorides beneath these deposits cause significant corrosion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address challenges in using straw for bioenergy and bioproducts.
- To reduce silica content in harvested straw.
- To mitigate slag deposit and corrosion issues.
Main Methods:
- Selective harvesting of straw stems using in-field physical separation.
- Leaving silica-rich leaves, sheaths, chaff, nodes, and awns in the field.
- Utilizing separated stems for bioenergy and bioproduct applications.
Main Results:
- Physical separation effectively reduces silica content in harvested straw.
- Mitigation of slag deposit formation and associated corrosion.
- Preservation of field soil organic matter and nutrient content.
Conclusions:
- Selective stem harvesting is a viable strategy for overcoming straw processing challenges.
- This approach enables efficient bioenergy and bioproduct utilization.
- It also contributes to sustainable agricultural practices and soil enrichment.