Mobile apparatus for biomass waste to biochar conversion

Abstract

A mobile biomass waste to biochar conversion apparatus (100) mounted on a vehicle facilitates on-site waste conversion in agricultural fields, ensuring efficient production of biochar. The apparatus (100) harnesses wasted thermal energy from the vehicle's exhaust for the pyrolysis process, enhancing energy efficiency and minimizing environmental impact. Versatile in accommodating various biomass types, the resulting biochar finds applications in agriculture, thermal processes, and metallurgy. The mobility, multiple power compatibility, and emission control mechanism of the apparatus (100) contribute to a sustainable approach to on-site biomass waste management. Effectively utilizing regenerative heat for biochar production, this apparatus (100) becomes a valuable asset for rural and agricultural settings, aligning with eco-friendly waste management practices.

Description

MOBILE APPARATUS FOR BIOMASS WASTE TO BIOCHAR CONVERSIONFIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of agricultural technology. In particular, the present disclosure provides a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus to operate on-site, for efficient conversion of waste into biochar.BACKGROUND

[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present disclosure. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed disclosure, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] Agricultural sector plays a pivotal role in global food production, yet it faces growing challenges related to the management of agricultural waste, particularly in the context of biochar production. Biochar, a carbon-rich material derived from the pyrolysis of biomass, has garnered attention for its potential to enhance soil fertility, sequester carbon, and contribute to sustainable agriculture. However, traditional biochar production methods are marked by inherent limitations that hinder their widespread adoption and environmental sustainability. Studies have elucidated unique chemical and physical properties of biochar that contribute to its potential. Biochar has been recognized for its thermal usage in combustion processes, metallurgical applications for greening steel as an alternative to coke in the sintering process, and agricultural use due to its effectiveness as a soil amendment and carbon sequestration tool

[0004] One of the primary challenges lies in the limited mobility of conventional biochar production systems. These systems are typically stationary, necessitating the transport of biomass from the agricultural site to the biochar production facility. This transportation incurs significant costs, both economic and environmental, as it involves the use of additional energy resources and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. The need for a more agile and on-site biochar production solution is evident, especially as global awareness of the environmental impact of transportation-related activities continues to rise. Additionally, inefficiency of logistics is further compounded by the weight and volume characteristics of biochar, which is less in weight and high in volume. This logistical inefficiency emphasizes urgency for a that can address not only the environmental impact oftransportation but also the challenges posed by the weight and volume characteristics of biochar.

[0005] Furthermore, the energy inefficiency of many existing biochar production systems poses a critical obstacle. These systems often rely heavily on external energy sources, which may be derived from non-renewable and environmentally taxing inputs. In regions where access to renewable energy sources is limited, the reliance on conventional energy exacerbates environmental concerns and compromises sustainability of biochar production.

[0006] The complexity and cost associated with gasification systems represent another hurdle. While gasification can effectively convert biomass into biochar, the intricate design and operational demands of these systems make them less accessible, particularly for smaller-scale agricultural operations or in developing regions where resources and expertise may be scarce.

[0007] Additionally, existing biochar production systems often fall short in the optimal utilization of generated heat, resulting in energy wastage. Heat recovery mechanisms in these systems are not always finely tuned to maximize efficiency, leading to suboptimal utilization of thermal energy. A more streamlined approach that maximizes heat recovery is essential to reduce energy waste and enhance efficiency of the biochar production process.

[0008] There is, therefore, a need to provide a solution that operates on-site, directly addressing limitations of traditional stationary waste conversion systems.OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus with enhanced mobility, allowing on-site processing and eliminating the need for biomass transport.

[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus designed with simplicity and accessibility, making it feasible for small- scale operations and reducing cost of the system.

[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus that efficiently utilizes regenerative heat from exhaust of vehicle, thereby improving energy efficiency and reducing the reliance on external energy inputs.

[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus with flexibility in power sources, capable of operating using a powertake-off (PTO) device or external electricity sources, enhancing adaptability to various operational settings.

[0013] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus that addresses environmental concerns by significantly reducing carbon footprint through on-site processing and leveraging waste heat for biomass conversion.

[0014] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus that with controlled heating, thereby mitigating the risk of uncontrolled combustion and fire hazards associated with traditional machines.SUMMARY

[0015] Aspects of the present disclosure relates to the field of agricultural technology. In particular, the present disclosure provides a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus that offers a groundbreaking solution by efficiently converting biomass into biochar on-site. With enhanced mobility, regenerative heat utilization, and a simplified design, the apparatus addresses key limitations of existing technologies, providing a sustainable, energy-efficient, and versatile approach to biomass waste management and biochar production.

[0016] An aspect of the present disclosure pertains to a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus for on-site biochar production. The apparatus includes a body to be positioned on a vehicle and incorporates a shredder unit and a heating unit initiating a pyrolysis process, producing biochar. The apparatus integrates an emission control mechanism for environmental impact mitigation, an exhaust heat recovery system for efficient heat transfer, a Power take-off (PTO) device for power supply, and a control unit for operation management. Additionally, the apparatus features a biochar collection unit, an adjustable shredder unit, a temperature range of 200°C to 700°C, and pressure upto 35 bar offering adaptability and versatility in biomass waste conversion. The inclusion of a port for external electricity further enhances its functionality. Further, the apparatus utilizes combustion of biomass waste as a power source.

[0017] Another aspect of the present disclosure pertains to a method for on-site biomass waste conversion using an apparatus mounted on a vehicle. The method begins with shredding of biomass waste in a shredder unit of the apparatus, followed by heating the shredded biomass waste at a pre-defined temperature and a pre-defined pressure in a heating unit to initiate a pyrolysis process, ultimately producing biochar. The method prioritizes environmental impact control through an integrated emission control mechanism. Efficient heat capture and transfer are achieved by the exhaust heat recovery system, utilizing theexhaust of the vehicle. Operation of the shredder and heating units is precisely managed by the control unit. Additionally, the method allows for maintaining a specific temperature range, pressure, utilizing a Power take-off (PTO) device for power supply, and connecting to an external electricity source through a dedicated port, offering versatility and adaptability in the biomass waste conversion process.

[0018] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary view of a flow diagram of proposed method for on-site conversion of biomass waste into biochar, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosures as defined by the appended claims.

[0023] Embodiments explained herein relate to the field of agricultural technology. In particular, the present disclosure provides a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus that offers a groundbreaking solution by efficiently converting biomass into biochar on-site. With enhanced mobility, regenerative heat utilization, and a simplified design, the apparatus addresses key limitations of existing technologies, providing a sustainable, energy-efficient, and versatile approach to biomass waste management and biochar production.

[0024] An embodiment of the present disclosure pertains to a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus for on-site biochar production. The apparatus includes a body to be positioned on a vehicle and incorporates a shredder unit and a heating unit initiating a pyrolysis process, producing biochar. The apparatus integrates an emission control mechanism for environmental impact mitigation, an exhaust heat recovery system for efficient heat transfer, a Power take-off (PTO) device for power supply, and a control unit for operation management. Additionally, the apparatus features a biochar collection unit, an adjustable shredder unit, and a temperature range of 300°C to 700°C, offering adaptability and versatility in biomass waste conversion. The inclusion of a port for external electricity further enhances its functionality. Further, the apparatus utilizes combustion of biomass waste as a power source.

[0025] Another embodiment of the present disclosure pertains to a method for on-site biomass waste conversion using an apparatus mounted on a vehicle. The method begins with shredding of biomass waste in a shredder unit of the apparatus, followed by heating the shredded biomass waste at a pre-defined temperature and a pre-defined pressure in a heating unit to initiate a pyrolysis process, ultimately producing biochar. The method prioritizes environmental impact control through an integrated emission control mechanism. Efficient heat capture and transfer are achieved by the exhaust heat recovery system, utilizing exhaust of the vehicle. Operation of the shredder and heating units is precisely managed by the control unit. Additionally, the method allows for maintaining a specific temperature range, utilizing a Power take-off (PTO) device for power supply, and connecting to an external electricity source through a dedicated port, offering versatility and adaptability in the biomass waste conversion process.

[0026] Referring to FIGs. 1 and 2, a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus (100) (interchangeably referred to as apparatus (100), hereinafter) to produce biochar is disclosed. The proposed apparatus (100) is a mobile solution for converting biomass waste into biochar, offering a sustainable approach to waste management and renewable energy production. The biomass waste can be such as but not limited to agri waste, forest waste, garden waste, kitchen waste or algae. The apparatus (100) includes a body (102) configured to be positioned or mounted to a vehicle such as a truck or the like, thus easily transportable to various agricultural sites. For instance, various types of vehicles, beyond trucks, can be employed based on the specific requirements and conditions of the agricultural site. For example, trailers, utility vehicles, or any other transport means with the capacity to accommodate and support the apparatus may be utilized. This flexibility allows the apparatusto be adaptable to different scenarios, providing users with options to choose the most suitable vehicle fortheir operational needs and preferences.

[0027] The body (102) includes a shredder unit (104), a heating unit (106), an emission control mechanism (108), an exhaust heat recovery system (110), and a Power takeoff (PTO) device (112). The biomass waste is loaded in the shredder unit (104) manually or through mechanical means. The biomass waste can be such as straw, husks, and other crop residues. In an exemplary embodiment, users i.e. farmers or others can agricultural waste into the hopper manually facilitating ease of operation and direct involvement in the waste conversion process. In another exemplary embodiment, the mechanical means can be conveyors, loaders, or other automated systems for efficient and rapid loading. The mechanical loading is particularly beneficial for large-scale operations where a higher volume of agricultural waste needs to be processed.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, mobility and transport features of the mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus are designed with practicality and versatility in mind. The trailer size, with lengths ranging from 3 to 12 meters and widths spanning 1.5 to 2.5 meters, ensures adaptability to various scales of operation. This design of apparatus (100) allows the apparatus to navigate diverse environments and operational settings with ease, from smaller agricultural plots to larger forestry sites. Additionally, the weight capacity of up to 20 tons takes into account both the weight of the unit itself and the biomass feedstock. This robust weight-bearing capability enhances the apparatus's efficiency in handling substantial amounts of biomass waste, further emphasizing its suitability for on-site conversion processes. The well-balanced combination of trailer size and weight capacity contributes to the apparatus's mobility, making it a reliable and effective solution for decentralized biomass waste management and biochar production.

[0029] In an embodiment, the shredder unit (104) is configured to receive the biomass waste and shred the received biomass waste effectively. The shredder unit (104) is adjustable to accommodate varying sizes and types of the biomass waste. For instance, the shredder unit (104) can efficiently shred biomass waste within the range of 3mm to 50mm (depending upon size of sieve). This specific range is chosen to facilitate an efficient pyrolysis process, ensuring that the shredded biomass is of an optimal size for effective and controlled biochar production. Additionally, this size range is selected for ease of handling during the conversion process.

[0030] In an embodiment, the heating unit (106) is configured to heat the shredded biomass waste at a pre-defined temperature, initiating a pyrolysis process, wherein thepyrolysis process produces biochar through the heating of the shredded biomass waste, the biochar produced by the pyrolysis process is collected in a biochar collection unit (114) positioned within the body (102). For instance, pyrolysis is a thermochemical decomposition of organic material at elevated temperatures in the absence of oxygen. The pyrolysis process, in this context, involves subjecting the shredded biomass to heat within the range of 200°C to 700°C, and the pre-defined pressure can be upto 35 bar or equivalent. This temperature range is considered optimal for pyrolysis, with lower temperatures being favorable for biochar production. Further, during the pyrolysis process, the organic components of the biomass undergo thermal decomposition, leading to the production of biochar. The biochar, a carbon- rich material, is a byproduct of the pyrolysis of biomass waste. It is noteworthy that the heating rate during pyrolysis is adjustable, ranging from 5 to 30°C per minute. This adjustability allows for customization based on the type of biomass being processed and the desired characteristics of the resulting biochar.

[0031] In an embodiment, apparatus includes a process known as hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) as part of its pyrolysis process. The HTC includes subjecting biomass waste to high temperature and pressure in the presence of water, leading to formation of biochar. This process occurs within the apparatus itself during the pyrolysis stage, allowing for the efficient conversion of biomass into biochar through the specific conditions created by hydrothermal carbonization. The utilization of HTC as a component of the pyrolysis process enhances the biochar production capabilities of the apparatus.

[0032] In an embodiment, the pyrolysis process is finely tuned to achieve versatile biochar outputs. Through careful modulation of temperature and pressure, the apparatus (100) attains a dual capability of producing both hydrophobic and hydrophilic biochar. The variations in temperature and pressure determinesthe physicochemical properties of the resultant biochar. Higher temperatures and specific pressure conditions favor the development of hydrophobic biochar, which exhibits water-repellent characteristics. Conversely, adjusting the pyrolysis process within a defined range leads to the production of hydrophilic biochar, characterized by an affinity for water. This dual capacity enhances the applicability of the biochar in diverse scenarios, offering tailored solutions for agricultural, environmental, and industrial applications based on the specific requirements of end-users and target applications.

[0033] Following the pyrolysis process, the biochar produced is collected in a biochar collection unit (114) positioned within the body (102) of the apparatus. This biocharcollection unit (114) serves to gather the biochar efficiently, making it ready for various applications, such as soil amendment or other industrial uses.

[0034] In an embodiment, the apparatus (100) further includes a water trapping unit (107) configured to capture and condense moisture released during the heating and pyrolysis process, and the condensed moisture is converted into water and stored within the apparatus. The condensed moisture is efficiently transformed into water and stored within the apparatus, serving as a valuable resource.

[0035] In an embodiment, the emission control mechanism (108) is integrated into the body (102), to control environmental impact during the pyrolysis process. The emission control mechanism (108) includes This mechanism consists of a filtration unit (not shown) and a catalytic converter (not shown). The filtration unit is configured to effectively remove particulate matter from the gases generated during the pyrolysis process. This results in a high Particulate Removal Efficiency, ranging from 85% to 99%, contingent on the specific filtration technology employed. Additionally, the catalytic converter plays a crucial role in controlling gas emissions produced during pyrolysis. The apparatus is configured to ensure compliance with local environmental regulations, with a particular emphasis on reducing emissions of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur oxides (SOx). This integrated emission control system underscores the apparatus's commitment to minimizing its environmental footprint and adhering to regulatory standards.

[0036] In an embodiment, the exhaust heat recovery system (110) with a heat exchanger captures thermal energy from exhaust of the vehicle and transfers heat to the heating unit (106). The temperature recovery range of the exhaust heat recovery system is specified to be between 150°C and 600°C. This range aligns with typical exhaust temperatures generated by combustion engines. The recovered heat within this temperature range is suitable for preheating the biomass waste or directly supplying heat to the heating unit, contributing to the efficiency of the biochar production process. Additionally, the heat transfer efficiency of the exhaust heat recovery system (110) is indicated to be within the broad range of 50% to 80%. This efficiency range is dependent on the design of the heat exchanger and the exhaust system. It signifies the effectiveness of the heat recovery process in capturing and transferring a significant portion of the exhaust heat to the heating unit. The efficiency figures may vary based on the specific engineering choices and design considerations applied to the heat exchanger and exhaust system.

[0037] In an embodiment, the Power take-off (PTO) device (112) is configured to receive power from an engine of the vehicle and supply the received power to the shredderunit (104) and the heating unit (106). This configuration ensures that the essential components of the apparatus receive the necessary power for their operation. The specified Power Range for the PTO device is between 10 and 50 kW. This range is deliberately broad, accommodating diverse sizes and capacities of the mobile unit. The flexibility in power output allows the apparatus to adapt to different operational scenarios, supporting variations in the scale and requirements of biomass waste conversion. The actual power output within this range would be determined based on the specific design considerations, operational needs, and the power requirements of the shredder unit (104) and the heating unit (106). The PTO device (112) is further configured with a safety mechanism to disengage power supply in an event of an operational anomaly.

[0038] In an embodiment, the apparatus (100) further includes a control unit (116) configured to control operation of the shredder unit (104), heating unit (106), and the PTO device (112). The control unit (116) may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, edge or fog microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitries, and / or any devices that process data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the control unit (116) may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (not shown) of the apparatus 100. The memory may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, which may be fetched and executed to create or share data packets over a network service. The memory may comprise any non-transitory storage device including, for example, volatile memory such as Random Access Memory (RAM), or non-volatile memory such as Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), flash memory, and the like.

[0039] The control unit (116) governs the shredder, regulating its intake and shredding process for efficient biomass waste processing. Simultaneously, it oversees the heating unit (106), maintaining pressure and temperature within the predefined range to initiate and control the pyrolysis process for biochar production. Furthermore, the control unit (116) optimizes the power distribution through the PTO device, guaranteeing that both the shredder and heating units receive the required power for effective and harmonized operation. This central intelligence enhances apparatus efficiency, safety, and adaptability to diverse operational needs.

[0040] Furthermore, the apparatus includes a port (not shown) configured to receive power from an external electricity source. This port is configured to receive power from an external electricity source, providing the apparatus with flexibility in energy supply. Theexternal electricity source may include conventional power sources such as the electrical grid, generators, heaters, or other industrial power supplies. This ensures that the apparatus (100) can operate in various settings where access to an external electricity supply is available. By accommodating a Voltage Range of 110-240V, the apparatus is designed to align with standard power supply systems commonly found in different locations. This adaptability to external power sources enhances flexibility of the apparatus, making it suitable for deployment in diverse environments and settings with varying power infrastructures.

[0041] In instances where external electricity sources are available or preferred, the apparatus is designed to seamlessly integrate with such sources.

[0042] In an embodiment, biomass waste, encompassing various forms of organic matter such as wood, crop residues, animal manure, and municipal solid waste, contains stored energy from the sun. As the biomass waste undergoes combustion, it releases heat energy through a series of chemical reactions, primarily involving the oxidation of organic compounds. The generated heat is then transferred to a medium, such as water, producing steam. This steam, in turn, propels turbines connected to generators, effectively converting the heat energy into electrical power that can be used in the apparatus (100).

[0043] Furthermore, biochar production capacity of the apparatus (100) is characterized by its impressive throughput capability, ranging from 100 kg to 5 tons per day. This range provides flexibility, allowing the apparatus to accommodate varying scales of operation and biomass waste quantities. The biochar yield, representing the amount of biochar produced in relation to the biomass feedstock weight, falls within the range of 20% to 40%. This yield is contingent upon several factors, including the specific type of biomass being processed and the conditions maintained during the pyrolysis process. By offering a substantial throughput capacity and a biochar yield that is adaptable to different biomass compositions, the apparatus demonstrates its efficiency in converting agricultural and forestry waste into valuable biochar resources.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, provided ranges for various parameters in the apparatus offer a versatile framework that accommodates different design choices and operational conditions. These ranges, encompassing aspects like particle size output, operating temperature, pressure, heating rate, temperature recovery, power range, and many others, allow for flexibility in tailoring the apparatus to specific needs. However, the specific values within these ranges are not fixed and need to be determined through detailed engineering design processes. Factors such as the type of biomass being processed, the unique conditions of the operational environment, and compliance with regulatory standardsall play crucial roles in determining the optimal parameter values. Thorough testing and optimization efforts become essential to fine-tune the apparatus for its intended application, ensuring efficiency, environmental compliance, and effectiveness. This iterative process of design refinement and testing is vital to achieving the best performance and meeting the requirements of diverse scenarios and applications.

[0045] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary view of a flow diagram of proposed method (200) for on-site conversion of biomass waste into biochar, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] At step (202), the method (200) include receiving biomass waste in a shredder unit (102) of a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus (100) and shredding the received biomass waste. The apparatus (100) is mounted on a vehicle that enables on-site conversion of biomass waste into biochar. The mobility of the apparatus ensures that biomass waste can be processed directly at its location, minimizing the need for transportation and providing a more efficient and sustainable waste-to-biochar conversion solution.

[0047] At step (204), the method (200) include heating the shredded biomass waste at a pre-defined temperature and a pre-defined pressure in a heating unit (106) of the apparatus (100) that initiates a pyrolysis process that produces biochar through the heating of the shredded biomass waste. Additionally, the method (200) includes hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) within the pyrolysis, enhancing the versatility and capabilities of the apparatus in the conversion of biomass waste into biochar. The inclusion of HTC broadens the range of biochar characteristics and applications, offering an innovative and comprehensive solution to biomass waste management.

[0048] Further, this step maintaining a pre-defined temperature of the heating unit (106) within the range of 200°C to 700°C during the pyrolysis process, and the pre-defined pressure can be upto 35 bar or equivalent. For an example, pyrolysis is a thermochemical decomposition process that occurs in the absence of oxygen, and in this context, it leads to the production of biochar from the shredded biomass waste. The pre-defined temperature and pressure is carefully selected to optimize the pyrolysis process, ensuring efficient conversion of the biomass into biochar.

[0049] At step (206), the method (200) include capturing and condensing (206) moisture released during the heating and pyrolysis, by a water trapping unit (107), and transforming the condensed moisture into water and storing within the apparatus

[0050] At step (208), the method (200) include controlling environmental impact during the pyrolysis process, by an emission control mechanism (108) of the apparatus (100).The emission control mechanism is designed to minimize and regulate the release of potentially harmful by-products or pollutants that may be generated during the biochar production process. This step ensures that environmental footprint of the biomass waste conversion is reduced, aligning with environmental regulations and sustainability goals. By implementing effective emission control measures, the apparatus contributes to a cleaner and more eco-friendly conversion process, making it a responsible and environmentally conscious technology.

[0051] At step (210), the method (200) include capturing and transferring heat from exhaust of the vehicle to the heating unit by an exhaust heat recovery system (110) of the apparatus (100). The exhaust heat recovery system is configured to harness thermal energy that is typically expelled as waste from the exhaust of the vehicle. This recovered heat is then transferred to the heating unit, enhancing energy efficiency of the biochar production process. By utilizing the otherwise wasted heat from the exhaust, the apparatus optimizes resource utilization, reduces the need for external energy sources, and contributes to a more sustainable and energy-efficient biomass waste conversion.

[0052] At step (212), the method (200) include controlling operation of the shredder unit (104) and the heating unit (106), by a control unit (116) of the apparatus (100). The control unit (116) manages the shredding of the biomass waste in the shredder unit, controls the heating unit to maintain the predefined temperature for pyrolysis, and synchronizes operation for optimal performance. This centralized control mechanism enhances the precision and effectiveness of the biochar production process, contributing to the reliability and adaptability of the mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus.

[0053] The method (200) further includes the step of utilizing a Power take-off (PTO) device (112) to receive power from an engine of the vehicle and supply the received power to the shredder unit (104) and the heating unit (106).

[0054] The method (200) further includes the step of connecting the apparatus (100) to an external electricity source through a port configured for receiving power.

[0055] Thus, the present mobile waste conversion apparatus marks a significant advancement in biomass waste management and biochar production. With its emphasis on mobility, regenerative heat utilization, and versatile power sources, this apparatus offers a sustainable and efficient solution, revolutionizing on-site waste conversion practices for enhanced environmental impact and operational flexibility.

[0056] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basicscope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0057] The present disclosure provides a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus with an enhanced focus on mobility, facilitating on-site processing and negating the necessity for biomass transport.

[0058] The present disclosure offers a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus characterized by a design emphasizing simplicity and accessibility, making it suitable for small-scale operations and contributing to reduction in system costs.

[0059] The present disclosure introduces a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus that effectively harnesses regenerative heat from exhaust of vehicle, thereby enhancing energy efficiency and diminishing dependence on external energy inputs.

[0060] The present disclosure unveils a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus featuring flexibility in power sources, enabling operation through a power take-off (PTO) device or external electricity sources, thereby enhancing adaptability across diverse operational settings.

[0061] The present disclosure presents a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus to address environmental concerns by significantly minimizing the carbon footprint through on-site processing and leveraging waste heat for biomass conversion.

[0062] The present disclosure presents a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus that with controlled heating, thereby mitigating the risk of uncontrolled combustion and fire hazards associated with traditional machines.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus (100) to produce biochar, the apparatus comprising: a body (102) configured to be positioned to a vehicle, wherein the body (102) comprising: a shredder unit (104) configured to receive the biomass waste and shred the received biomass waste; a heating unit (106) configured to heat the shredded biomass waste at a pre-defined temperature and a pre-defined pressure, initiating a pyrolysis process, wherein the pyrolysis process produces biochar through the heating of the shredded biomass waste; an emission control mechanism (108) integrated into the body (102), to control environmental impact during the pyrolysis process; characterized in that an exhaust heat recovery system (110) with a heat exchanger to capture and transfer heat from exhaust of the vehicle to the heating unit of the biomass waste conversion apparatus (100); a Power take-off (PTO) device (112) configured to receive power from an engine of the vehicle and supply the received power to the shredder unit (104) and the heating unit (106); and a control unit (116) configured to control operation of the shredder unit (104), heating unit (106), and the PTO device (112).

2. The mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the biochar produced by the pyrolysis process is collected in a biochar collection unit (114) positioned within the body (102).

3. The mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pre-defined temperature of the heating unit ranges between 300°C and 700°C.

4. The mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, comprises a port configured to receive power from an external electricity source.

5. The mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, the apparatus comprises a water trapping unit (107) configured to capture and condense moisture released during the heating and pyrolysis process, wherein the condensed moisture is transformed into water and stored within the apparatus.

6. The mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the emission control mechanism (108) comprises: a filtration unit configured to remove particulate matter from gases generated during the pyrolysis process; and a catalytic converter configured to control gas emissions produced during the pyrolysis process.

7. A method (200) for on-site conversion of biomass waste into biochar, the method comprises the steps of: receiving (202) biomass waste in a shredder unit (104) of a mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus and shredding the received biomass waste; heating (204) the shredded biomass waste at a pre-defined temperature and a predefined pressure in a heating unit (106) of the mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus initiating a pyrolysis process that produces biochar through the heating of the shredded biomass waste; capturing and condensing (206) moisture released during the heating and pyrolysis, by a water trapping unit, and transforming the condensed moisture into water and storing within the apparatus; controlling (208) environmental impact during the pyrolysis process, by an emission control mechanism (108) of the mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus; characterized by capturing and transferring (210), via an exhaust heat recovery system (110) heat from exhaust of the vehicle to the heating unit by an exhaust heat recovery system (110) of the mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus; and controlling (212) operation of the shredder unit (104) and the heating unit (106), by a control unit (116) of the mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus.

8. The method as claimed in claim 7, comprising the step of maintaining a pre-defined temperature of the heating unit (106) within the range of 300°C to 700°C during the pyrolysis process.

9. The method as claimed in claim 7, comprises the step of utilizing a Power take-off(PTO) device (112) to receive power from an engine of the vehicle and supply the received power to the shredder unit (104) and the heating unit (106).

10. The method as claimed in claim 7, comprises the step of connecting the mobile biomass waste conversion apparatus (100) to an external electricity source through a port configured for receiving power.

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