Influence of Biomass Pellet Composition on Particulate Matter and Electrostatic Precipitator Efficiency
Nikola Čajová Kantová1, Alexander Backa1, Robert Cibula1
1Research Centre, University of Žilina, Univerzitná 8215/1, Žilina 010 26, Slovakia.
ACS Omega
|November 24, 2025
Summary
Agro-pellets produce higher particulate matter (PM) than wood pellets, increasing electrostatic precipitator (ESP) load. However, ESPs effectively reduce PM emissions across all fuel types, with greater efficiency for fine particles.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Combustion Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Particulate matter (PM) emissions from biomass combustion pose environmental and health risks.
- Electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) are crucial for controlling PM emissions from combustion sources.
- Fuel composition significantly impacts PM characteristics and ESP performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of fuel type (woody vs. agro-pellets) on PM emissions.
- To evaluate the efficiency of an electrostatic precipitator (ESP) with different fuel compositions.
- To analyze the elemental composition of PM generated from various biomass fuels.
Main Methods:
- Small-scale combustion tests were conducted using spruce, beech, straw, hay, and sunflower pellets.
- Elemental analysis and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry were used to characterize fuel and PM composition.
- PM concentrations were measured with and without ESP operation to determine removal efficiencies.
Main Results:
- Agro-pellets (hay, straw, sunflower) generated significantly higher PM concentrations (368-672 mg·m⁻³) compared to woody pellets (32-76 mg·m⁻³).
- Agro-pellets contained higher levels of ash-forming elements (K, Cl, Na, S, Si), leading to increased fine fly ash and ESP deposition.
- The ESP achieved high PM removal efficiencies (81-93%) for all fuels, particularly for fine PM fractions.
Conclusions:
- Fuel composition critically influences PM characteristics and emissions during combustion.
- Agro-pellets present challenges for ESPs due to higher ash content and fine PM formation.
- ESPs are effective in mitigating PM emissions from diverse biomass fuels, ensuring environmental compliance.
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