Method and system for producing fuel from compressed biomass

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for producing fuel from compressed biomass, wherein the method comprises the following: providing biomass; washing the biomass; comminuting, in particular finely comminuting, the biomass; mechanically dewatering the biomass; drying the biomass; and shaping the biomass, wherein the provided biomass has, at least in part, been stored under mechanical pressure for at least one day. The present invention also relates to a corresponding system (100) for producing fuel from compressed biomass, to the use of biomass stored under pressure, to a computer-readable medium, and to a program element.

Description

[0001] Process and system for producing fuel from pressed biomass

[0002] AREA OF INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a method and a system for producing fuel from compressed biomass. The present invention further relates to the use of pressurized biomass, a computer-readable medium, and a program element.

[0004] BACKGROUND AND STATE OF THE ART

[0005] The production of fuel, for example in the form of pellets or briquettes, from biomass such as green waste or leaves is a well-known process. For example, WO 2004 / 067685 Al describes a process for producing fuel from pressed biomass, in which the biomass undergoes a comminution and a drying process before being pressed into pellets. Further details on the comminution process are described, among others, in DE 10 2008 035 222 Al and DE 10 2008 064 803 B3. The use of a waterjet cutter and washing the biomass has also proven advantageous, as described in DE 10 2012 203 148 B3. For drying, a contact dryer can be used, for example, as described in DE 10 2016 213 956 Al.

[0006] When optimizing the production process, for example with regard to lower energy consumption, and improving the quality of the produced fuel, for example with regard to reducing impurities and increasing energy yield, the problem of varying the supplied biomass arises. For example, the moisture content, the proportion of impurities, and the degree of cell wall disruption of the delivered biomass are highly variable properties. But even within a single delivery batch, high property variability is often observed: For example, in a large pile of leaves, the upper layer is heavily exposed to the elements (variable moisture from completely dry to completely saturated), and due to the loose and aerated upper layer, it is subject to strong air exchange, which represents an almost ideal supply of oxygen for certain undesirable processes.In contrast, the lower layers represent an uncontrolled wet mass in which fermentation, decay and mold growth processes occur uncontrolled (which can lead to a lower calorific value of the fuel, for example through sugar degradation).

[0007] There is therefore still a need for improvements and optimizations in a process for producing fuel from pressed biomass and in a system used or suitable for this purpose.

[0008] TASK OF INVENTION

[0009] One object of the present invention is therefore to provide an improved method and system for producing fuel from pressed biomass, which in particular has lower energy consumption and delivers an improved quality of the fuel produced, for example with regard to an increase in energy yield and a reduction in impurities.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The inventors of the present invention have carried out extensive investigations and have found that by using biomass that has been stored under mechanical pressure before the actual processing in the process, particularly in a rather anaerobic storage system, an improved quality of the fuel, such as pellets, can be achieved.

[0012] Without wanting to be bound to any specific theory, the inventors currently assume that, firstly, the mechanical pressure reduces air circulation and thus the oxygen supply for fermentation, fermentation, and mold growth processes, and secondly, the intensive contact between the components of the biomass caused by the pressure leads to better heat conduction and increased moisture migration. As a result, storage under mechanical pressure can yield a significantly more homogeneous biomass, particularly with regard to moisture distribution, but also in terms of the degree of microbial decomposition. This allows the subsequent process steps in the production of fuel from the biomass to be carried out more efficiently and thus more energy-savingly, and the resulting fuel also has a higher energy yield and a lower proportion of impurities.In particular, achieving the greatest possible homogenization of the moisture content of the biomass to be processed is especially desirable, because during the subsequent washing out of contaminants, the contact time of the aqueous solvent (i.e., essentially the water and thus the moisture) is an important parameter for the removal of contaminants (for example, it takes a certain amount of time for table salt [e.g., from roads salted in autumn and winter, which then contaminates the biomaterial] to dissolve).

[0013] The present invention relates accordingly to a process for producing fuel from pressed biomass, the process comprising the following steps: providing the biomass, washing the (provided) biomass, comminuting, in particular fine comminution, of the (washed) biomass, mechanical dewatering of the (compressed) biomass, drying of the (mechanically dewatered) biomass, and shaping (optionally including compaction) of the (dried) biomass. The provided biomass was stored under mechanical pressure for at least one day, at least partially (in particular predominantly, most especially substantially). For example, providing the biomass can include storing at least a portion of the biomass under mechanical pressure for at least one day.

[0014] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a system (arrangement, device) for producing fuel from pressed biomass, in particular for carrying out a process as described herein, wherein the system comprises a washing unit, a comminution device, in particular a fine comminution device, a mechanical dewatering device, a drying device, and a shaping device (optionally including a compaction device). The system further comprises one or more storage units configured to store biomass at least partially (in particular predominantly, most especially substantially) under mechanical pressure for at least one day.

[0015] Furthermore, the present invention relates to the use of pressurized biomass in a process for producing fuel from pressed biomass, in particular in a process for producing fuel from pressed biomass as described herein.

[0016] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a computer-readable medium on which a computer program is stored, wherein the computer program is configured such that, when executed on a processor, it controls and / or regulates a method and / or a system for producing fuel from compressed biomass as described herein. The present invention also relates to a program element configured such that, when executed on a processor, it controls and / or regulates a method and / or a system for producing fuel from compressed biomass as described herein.

[0017] Further tasks and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying illustration.

[0018] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE IMAGE

[0019] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a system for producing fuel from pressed biomass according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Further details of the present invention and other embodiments thereof are described below. However, the present invention is not limited to the following detailed description, which merely serves to illustrate the teachings of the invention.

[0022] It should be noted that features described in connection with an exemplary embodiment can be combined with any other exemplary embodiment. In particular, features described in connection with an exemplary embodiment of a method according to the invention can be combined with any other exemplary embodiment of a method according to the invention, as well as with any exemplary embodiment of a system according to the invention, as well as with any exemplary embodiment of a use according to the invention, any exemplary embodiment of a computer-readable medium according to the invention, and any exemplary embodiment of a program element according to the invention, and vice versa, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0023] When a term is used with an indefinite or definite article, such as "ein," "eine," "eines," "der," "die," and "das" in the singular, this also includes the plural form, and vice versa, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The expressions "aufweisen" and "umfassen," as used here, do not only include the meaning of "contain" or "include," but can also mean "consist of" and "essentially consist of."

[0024] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the terms "at least partially" or "at least a part" as used here can mean at least 1% of it, at least 2% of it, at least 5% of it, at least 10% of it, at least 15% of it, at least 20% of it, at least 25% of it, at least 30% of it, at least 35% of it, at least 40% of it, at least 45% of it, at least 50% of it, at least 55% of it, at least 60% of it, at least 65% of it, at least 70% of it, at least 75% of it, at least 80% of it, at least 85% of it, at least 90% of it, at least 95% of it, at least 98% of it, at least 99% of it, and can also mean 100% of it.

[0025] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a method for producing fuel from pressed biomass. The fuel from pressed biomass can, in particular, be pellets and / or briquettes.

[0026] For the purposes of this application, "biomass" refers in particular to plant products that can be used to generate heating energy, electrical energy, and as fuels. For the purposes of this application, "pellets" refers in particular to small bodies of compressed material in spherical or cylindrical shape. These can be, in particular, combustible granules used as a heating medium. The typical diameter of pellets is between 6 and 25 mm. Pellets are mostly used in automatically fed combustion systems and pellet stoves, which offer a similar level of convenience to oil or gas heating systems; however, they are also suitable for firing large-scale systems (e.g., thermal power plants, steam boilers, etc.).

[0027] For the purposes of this application, "briquettes" are understood to mean in particular compressed fuel material with a larger size than pellets, for example with a diameter greater than 25 mm.

[0028] The steps of washing, comminution, in particular fine comminution, mechanical dewatering, drying and shaping (including compaction) can in principle be carried out in an analogous manner as in the literature mentioned at the beginning.

[0029] In connection with the present invention, it is important that the provided biomass (before further processing such as washing, shredding, etc.) was stored under mechanical pressure for at least one day, at least in part. For example, providing the biomass can include storing at least a portion of the biomass under mechanical pressure for at least one day.

[0030] For the purposes of this application, "mechanical pressure" is understood to mean, in particular, a pressure, i.e., a force per unit area, or a load or stress that exceeds atmospheric pressure. Preferably, the mechanical pressure acts on the biomass in a substantially uniform manner, particularly in a substantially uniform manner with respect to the area and / or in a substantially uniform manner with respect to the duration of time. For the purposes of this application, "storage" is understood to mean, in particular, that the biomass is held as a unit, for example, as a container or in a storage unit, preferably stationary at one location, but may also include transporting the unit.

[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment, the provided biomass was subjected to a mean mechanical pressure of over 20 kg / m³. 2 , especially above 50 kg / m² 2 , preferably over 100 kg / m² 2, stored. It has been shown that even a substantially uniformly distributed mechanical pressure of 20-50 kg / m² is sufficient. 2 This leads to improved pellet quality; particularly good effects were observed with storage levels exceeding 100 kg / m³. 2 This has been achieved. In particular, the average mechanical pressure is below 2000 kg / m². 2 , since above that point no significant improvement can usually be achieved.

[0032] According to an exemplary embodiment, the provided biomass was stored in a storage unit, in particular a big bag and / or a round bale. Storing the biomass in a storage unit such as a big bag and / or a round bale enables storage under mechanical pressure in a particularly efficient and advantageous manner, in order to improve the homogeneity of the biomass, especially its moisture distribution. Furthermore, this allows an anaerobic environment to be created, for example by wrapping it with a (essentially gas-impermeable) film, which contributes in particular to a homogeneous degree of microbial decomposition of the biomass.

[0033] For the purposes of this application, a "BigBag" is understood to mean, in particular, a flexible container for bulk goods that looks and can be used like a large sack or bag (with handles / loops). The internationally used abbreviation is FIBC, which stands for Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container. Other names include bulk bag and jumbo bag. The typical size is approximately 1000 to 1300 liters. For the sake of simplicity, for the purposes of this application, "BigBags" are defined as containers that cover 5 of the 6 coordinate directions of a cube: 4 sides and 1 base, regardless of whether the sides are round, cubic, polygonal, or otherwise shaped.

[0034] For the purposes of this application, a "round bale" is understood to mean biomass containment units containing compressed biomass. Typically (therefore, for the sake of simplicity, the term "round bale" will be used hereafter), these are circularly wound and compressed grass or leaf materials, which are then essentially completely wrapped in a film to maintain their shape and pressure on the biomass, or surrounded by a net-like plastic material on the cylindrical surface. Alternatively, rectangular bales or the use of twine / bands (over unspecified outer surfaces) instead of the aforementioned net and surface covering are also possible.

[0035] It has proven advantageous to store the delivered biomass in separate storage units. This allows for the compensation and balancing of different properties within the delivered biomass. Additionally, with a typical pellet production plant size, this ensures that not too much biomass is stored uncompressed. For example, if leaves with a high dry matter content are stored openly, there is a risk of significant microbial growth and secondary heating by yeasts and molds. However, if leaves are packed relatively densely in big bags, the secondary heating is reduced through compression. It has also been shown that a "big bag"-typical size for the individual storage units ensures that they are a suitable size for the subsequent preparation of the pellet production system.

[0036] According to an exemplary embodiment, the provided biomass was stored under mechanical pressure for at least 5 days, in particular at least 20 days, and preferably at least 50 days. Tests have shown that the pressure storage according to the invention (storage under pressure) has a measurable effect on the biomass (temperature and moisture distribution, salinity, etc.) even after just one day of exposure. Particularly good results were observed with pressure storage of more than 5 days, in particular more than 20 days, and preferably more than 50 days. It has been shown that the method is suitable for the long-term storage of biomass used for pellet production.

[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment, the provided biomass was stored at a temperature below 10 °C, particularly below 5 °C, preferably below 0 °C. The biomass can also be stored effectively (for example, in storage units) at cold temperatures such as those found in winter. Due to the reduced moisture exchange, the acetic acid content inside a storage unit, for example, remains sufficiently high, so that no noticeable mold growth occurs when the temperature subsequently rises (e.g., in spring). Good results were observed in storage trials with filled storage units at temperatures below 10 °C, particularly below 5 °C, preferably below 0 °C.

[0038] According to an exemplary embodiment, the provided biomass was subjected to multiple temperature fluctuations during storage over a temperature range of more than 5 °C, in particular more than 8 °C, preferably more than 12 °C. Even with multiple temperature fluctuations of a filled storage unit, no or only reduced condensation of humidity occurs due to thermal inertia, which supports the continuity of the microclimate desired according to the invention. Thus, this form of storage allows for a stable storage situation even with typical day-night temperature fluctuations. It was found that the filled storage units can withstand multiple temperature fluctuations of more than 5 °C, in particular more than 8 °C, preferably more than 12 °C, during storage.Surprisingly, it was found that particularly good pellet quality can be achieved precisely through these temperature fluctuations and the associated moisture transport within the storage unit.

[0039] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the (provided) biomass is of plant origin, in particular selected from the group consisting of water hyacinths, seagrass, algae, grass clippings, leaves, green waste, and combinations thereof. Particularly good results were achieved when the biomass consists of or contains seagrass, water hyacinths, algae, grass clippings, and / or leaves. Without wishing to be bound to any specific theory, the inventors currently assume that the dry matter of these materials provides a good basis for pellet production and that, at the same time, these materials are often not round but rather flat in cross-section, which results in better contact (due to a larger contact area) between the individual particles for thermal and moisture exchange, without requiring particularly high pressure for compression.This uniformity of pressure is particularly easy to achieve with round bales and big bags, because the uniform rim of the storage unit implicitly results in a uniform pressure distribution.

[0040] According to one exemplary embodiment, the provision of biomass includes combining, in particular mixing, biomass from storage units with different properties (such as moisture, composition and / or impurity content). This allows different properties or compositions of biomass from different storage units to be compensated for or balanced, which can lead to an improved quality of the produced fuel.

[0041] According to one exemplary embodiment, providing the biomass includes determining its moisture content (water content). In other words, it can be advantageous to determine the moisture content of the stored biomass before further processing. Moisture determination can be carried out, in particular, while the biomass is still in a storage unit, for example, while still under mechanical pressure. Alternatively or additionally, the moisture content can also be determined after the biomass has been removed from a storage unit and is, for example, no longer under mechanical pressure. It has been shown that the moisture content of the biomass has a decisive influence on the quality of the fuel produced from compressed biomass. For this reason, very good results have been achieved when the moisture content of storage units is checked before they are fed into the system.This can be done manually by an experienced operator; however, measuring the moisture content is more reliable. It is helpful if the biomass is wrapped in foil, as this correlates the humidity with the moisture content of the biomass, making humidity measurement easier than measuring the moisture content of solids.

[0042] According to one exemplary embodiment, the moisture content of the (stored) biomass is increased before (further) processing (such as washing, shredding, etc.). It has proven advantageous to allow a settling period after this moisture increase before (further) processing begins or takes place. Depending on the measured moisture content of the individual storage units, this can be increased by adding water or steam. A settling period after the addition of moisture is also helpful, allowing the moisture to spread and ensuring uniform moistening of the biomass. In particular, this moist storage activates the dissolution of dried salts on the surface of the biomass (e.g., road salt on leaves near roads or salts inherent in the biomass).

[0043] According to an exemplary embodiment, water or steam is injected into a storage unit to increase humidity. For this purpose, water can be introduced, for example, using a hose. Alternatively, a mandrel-shaped injection device can be used, preferably comprising several mandrel-shaped elements and / or a mandrel-shaped element with multiple outlets (openings) for the release of water or steam. Such a mandrel-shaped injection tool has proven particularly advantageous for foil-wrapped storage units, where moisture must be introduced before the foil is removed, because it can be easily pierced through the foil. This tool can have multiple outlets for the humidification medium, resulting in more uniform humidification. Alternatively or additionally, the injection tool can have several of these injectors, which further improves moisture distribution.

[0044] According to an exemplary embodiment, the provided biomass is wrapped in a film, in particular a film with water vapor diffusion-retarding properties. For this purpose, the film comprises one or more plastics, and in particular, the film consists (predominantly) of plastic. Polyethylene has proven to be particularly suitable. Preferably, the plastic or the polyethylene is UV-stabilized (i.e., provided with a UV stabilizer). It has been shown that the inventive effects of pressure storage can be further improved by wrapping with a moisture / diffusion barrier. It has been found that the requirements for vapor barriers in the construction sector are much stricter than those required for the storage of biomass. It is sufficient if the biomass is wrapped in a film that substantially reduces and / or prevents direct contact with the environment.A film with water vapor diffusion-retarding properties is an additional advantage because it further reduces water permeation. It has also been shown that, with regard to environmental impact, a film made primarily of plastic is very well suited, as the solution according to the invention is particularly well-suited for use in environmentally conscious countries that either have a closed recycling chain for defined plastics or that thermally recycle the plastics under exhaust gas-controlled conditions. Here, it is particularly advantageous to use polyethylene for the film because it burns with very little residue. Additionally, UV stabilization of the film is of interest to prevent it from becoming brittle during long-term storage and thus from being exposed to increased environmental contamination.

[0045] According to an exemplary embodiment, the biomass is provided in a storage unit which is opened (during feeding) in such a way that foreign material is retained and / or sorted out, preferably with several systems for retaining foreign material being used sequentially. When processing a large number of storage units, it is advantageous to use a device that opens the corresponding storage units semi- or fully automatically when they are fed into the system for producing fuel from compressed biomass or when fed into an optional upstream subsystem for mixing the biomass. For example, automatic opening systems with packaging retention are known for round bales. The removal of residual plastics is of particular importance in pellet production.This means, for example, that an opening mechanism can be used which leaves relatively large amounts of residual plastic material intact. In the event of failure of the automatic closure of the opener, this material can then be further retained by a sieve-like device. According to an exemplary embodiment, the biomass is moistened before washing. It can be particularly advantageous if the time between moistening and subsequent mechanical dewatering is at least 10 minutes, in particular at least 30 minutes, in particular at least 2 hours, and in particular at least 6 hours. This time can also be referred to as the moistening exposure time. Such a procedure allows, for example, the leaching (or dissolution) of salts in addition to the actual washing process. In particular, the dissolution process of salts is also relatively slow, i.e.,The throughput through the washing unit is limited by the dissolution time of salts. If this humidification is carried out more than 10 minutes, more than 30 minutes, more than 2 hours, or even more than 6 hours before washing, various contaminants can dissolve, thus optimizing their removal.

[0046] According to one exemplary embodiment, the mechanical dewatering of the biomass is carried out in multiple stages (for example, in several stages of a dewatering system or in several process steps in different dewatering systems). In particular, the shear forces acting on the biomass in the different dewatering systems can differ. Consequently, the wastewater compositions of the different dewatering systems can also differ. In multi-stage dewatering, for example, the different dewatering systems can be designed such that they exert different shear forces on the biomass. This results in different degrees of cell disruption of the biomass, leading, for example, to the wastewater from the two dewatering systems exhibiting different protein concentrations and levels of contaminants.A process according to the invention for producing fuel from pressed biomass can in particular be carried out by means of a system for producing fuel from pressed biomass according to the second aspect explained in more detail below.

[0047] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a system for producing fuel from compressed biomass. The system may be particularly suitable for carrying out a process for producing fuel from compressed biomass according to the first aspect explained in more detail above. Descriptions of features already given above in connection with the first aspect apply analogously to the same or similar features in connection with the second aspect, even if they are not explicitly repeated.

[0048] The individual components of the system, such as a washing unit, a comminution device, in particular a fine comminution device, a mechanical dewatering device, a drying device, a shaping device (possibly including a compaction device), can in principle correspond to the components as disclosed in the aforementioned literature.

[0049] In connection with the second aspect of the present invention, it is important that the system further comprises one or more storage units configured to store biomass, at least partially, under mechanical pressure for at least one day. The storage units can be arranged in close proximity to the other, or at least some of the, other components of the system. However, it is also possible for the storage units to be arranged at a distance from the other components of the system or even decentrally (for example, at several different locations), as will be discussed in more detail below. According to an exemplary embodiment, the storage unit comprises a big bag and / or a round bale. These storage units are particularly efficient and advantageous for storing biomass under mechanical pressure in order to improve the homogeneity of the biomass, especially its moisture distribution.Furthermore, this can create an anaerobic environment, for example by covering it with a (essentially gas-impermeable) film, which contributes in particular to a homogeneous microbial decomposition degree of the biomass.

[0050] According to one exemplary embodiment, the storage units filled with biomass can be individually manipulated before processing. For this purpose, the storage units are not connected to each other, but are separate.

[0051] According to an exemplary embodiment, the biomass-filled storage units weigh between 200 kg and 2000 kg, in particular between 400 kg and 1500 kg, preferably between 600 kg and 1200 kg. It has been shown that the weight of the individual storage units is optimal when they weigh between 200 kg and 2000 kg, in particular between 400 kg and 1500 kg, preferably between 600 kg and 1200 kg. If the weight is too high, the internal pressure in the storage unit may be excessively disrupted by its own weight over its height. Conversely, if the storage units are too small, handling becomes cumbersome and therefore uneconomical at high throughput rates of the system according to the invention.

[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a data acquisition unit configured to electronically record individual storage units upon receipt, production, and / or processing. Additionally or alternatively, the individual storage units may have an identification feature. The data acquisition and / or identification feature may include at least one data element from the group consisting of contents description, supplier identification, composition details, weight, volume, humidity, temperature, time / date information, contaminant details, inferential information on dry matter content, and origin. It has been shown that it can be helpful to record data on individual storage units or groups thereof in a data processing system.This data capture of individual storage units directly upon receipt using a manual and / or electronic data collection unit, possibly with a scanner, is particularly advantageous. A storage unit can also be marked with an identification feature, or this feature can be recorded along with the unit. For example, a big bag or a round bale can be equipped with a serial number, a unique ID, a QR code, or an RFID tag. It has proven helpful to record one of the following data elements during this process (either during production, upon receipt, or later): contents description, supplier identification, composition details, weight, volume, moisture content, temperature, time / date information, contaminant details, and information about the dry matter content and / or origin.This helps, for example, with tracking or determining the source of the problem when different suppliers deliver storage units and individual units have excessively high levels of contaminants.

[0053] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a moisture determination unit configured to determine the moisture content of the (stored) biomass. The moisture determination unit can be configured, in particular, to determine the moisture content of the biomass while it is still in a storage unit, for example, wrapped in a film. It has been shown that the moisture content of the biomass has a decisive influence on the quality of the fuel produced from compressed biomass. For this reason, determining the moisture content and, if necessary, modifying it, especially increasing it, can make a significant contribution to improving the quality of the fuel produced from compressed biomass.

[0054] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises an injection device, in particular a mandrel-shaped injection device, configured to inject water or steam into a storage unit. This increases the moisture content of the biomass, which, as explained above, can improve the quality of the fuel produced from compressed biomass. The injection device can advantageously have several mandrel-shaped elements and / or a mandrel-shaped element with multiple outlets (openings) for releasing water or steam. Such a mandrel-shaped injection tool has proven particularly advantageous for foil-wrapped storage units where moisture needs to be introduced before the foil is removed, because it can be easily inserted through the foil.This tool can now have multiple outlets for the humidification medium, resulting in more uniform humidification. Alternatively or additionally, the injection tool can have several of these injectors, further improving moisture distribution.

[0055] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system comprises several storage units arranged decentrally. Furthermore, a data processing system can be provided, in particular, which monitors, coordinates, and / or optimizes the transport of the storage units. It has been shown that it can be advantageous if the storage units are stored decentrally, especially if a data processing system records, monitors, coordinates, and / or optimizes their transport. This reduces the site area required by the system according to the invention, and the principles of the polluter pays principle can be better implemented, insofar as the biomass (e.g., leaves or grass clippings) is stored where it is generated. According to an exemplary embodiment, the storage unit comprises a film encasing the biomass, in particular a film that has water vapor diffusion-retarding properties.For this purpose, the film comprises one or more plastics, and in particular, the film consists (predominantly) of plastic. Polyethylene has proven to be particularly suitable. Preferably, the plastic or the polyethylene is UV-stabilized (i.e., provided with a UV stabilizer). It has been shown that the inventive effects of pressure storage can be further improved by wrapping the film with a moisture / diffusion barrier. It has been found that the requirements for vapor barriers in the construction sector are much stricter than those required for the storage of biomass. It is sufficient if the biomass is wrapped with a film that essentially prevents direct contact with the environment. A film with water vapor diffusion-retarding properties is an additional advantage because it further reduces the passage of water.It has also been shown that, with regard to environmental impact, a film made primarily of plastic is very well suited, as the solution according to the invention is particularly well-suited for use in environmentally conscious countries that either have a closed recycling chain for defined plastics or that thermally recycle the plastics under exhaust gas-controlled conditions. Here, it is particularly advantageous to use polyethylene for the film because it burns with very little residue. Additionally, UV stabilization of the film is of interest to prevent it from becoming brittle during long-term storage and thus from being exposed to increased environmental contamination.

[0056] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a feeding device configured to feed the storage units into the system (optionally supported by automation aids), in particular semi-automatically, preferably fully automatically. Automatic feeding of the storage units to the system has proven to be particularly advantageous. From both an ecological and economic perspective, it is best if the system for producing fuel from pressed biomass can operate continuously (eliminating pressure-specific and thermal fluctuations, which are always disadvantageous from a process perspective). Semi- or even fully automatic feeding of the storage units also eliminates the need for employees to work demanding night shifts. This can be achieved using mechatronics mechanisms and Industry 4.0 principles.Both are process elements that are known to a person skilled in the art and therefore do not require further discussion here.

[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises an opening device configured to open and / or empty the storage units upon their introduction into the system, thereby retaining and / or sorting out foreign material. Preferably, several systems for retaining foreign material can be used sequentially. For large quantities of storage units being processed, it is advantageous to use a device that opens the corresponding storage units semi- or fully automatically upon their introduction into the system for producing fuel from compressed biomass or upon their introduction into an optional upstream subsystem for mixing the biomass. For example, automatic opening systems with packaging retention are known for round bales.Especially in pellet production, the removal of residual plastics is of particular importance. This means, for example, that the opening device can be configured to leave relatively large pieces of residual plastic material intact. Subsequently, in the event of a failure of the automatic retention of the opening device, a sieve-like device can be provided for further sorting out any remaining plastic material. According to an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a detection unit configured to detect concentrations of contaminants and / or foreign substances. It is advantageous if the concentrations of contaminants and / or foreign substances can be detected in such a way that they can be assigned to a group of storage units, preferably to a single storage unit, and particularly preferably, if measures can be taken based on this assignment.Particularly in urban areas, a high proportion of contaminants, primarily plastics, has been observed. These can be identified during biomass processing with appropriate measures. Suitable logistics and data processing can be implemented so that, for example, the data processing system / process control system tracks, as the fuel production process progresses, the storage unit from which the contaminated biomaterial originates. This allows concentrations of contaminants and / or foreign substances not only to be detected but also to be traced back to a single storage unit or a group of storage units. Based on this traceability, appropriate measures can then be taken (e.g., making further deliveries from a supplier with excessively high contaminant levels less attractive [e.g., by imposing penalty fees] or preventing them altogether).

[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a data processing unit configured to store the position of a storage unit. This allows, in particular, the optimization of the transport route based on the storage location of a storage unit, or the relocation of the storage unit even when covered, especially by snow, based on the stored position. For this purpose, a GPS system can preferably be used, for example, a GPS transmitter on the storage unit and a GPS receiver as part of the data processing unit. According to an exemplary embodiment, the system is housed in several individual containments.These enclosures can be compatible with transport systems and / or offer at least one of the following additional benefits: sound insulation, energy optimization, odor reduction, simplified installation, optimized logistics, and / or simplified transport. The enclosures can be designed for relatively easy relocation to a different site. A typical implementation involves installation in sea freight containers or using enclosures of compatible dimensions, allowing individual modules to be easily transported and positioned by truck. These enclosures can provide additional benefits: 1) Certain areas can be additionally soundproofed. In particular, extensive enclosure of the functional system components inherently provides sound insulation. 2) The same applies to potential odor emissions. Targeted airflow within the enclosure (possibly with activated carbon filters) reduces any odor emissions.3) The enclosure also allows waste heat to be collected and specifically directed towards heat utilization or heat recovery. 4) Pre-assembly and adjustment of the subsystem components within the enclosure simplifies installation. The components can be pre-leveled on a support frame, so that only the overall frame needs to be leveled during installation, and the subcomponents are automatically aligned. 5) Housing the components in individual subsystems facilitates replacement in case of malfunctions, because, for example, only a replacement container needs to be delivered and connected from a central location, which, especially in remote areas, does not require specialists.

[0059] According to an exemplary embodiment, the mechanical dewatering device is a multi-stage dewatering device or comprises several dewatering devices. In particular, the different dewatering devices can be configured such that different shear forces act on the biomass. The different dewatering devices can also be configured such that the wastewater compositions differ from one another. In a multi-stage dewatering process with different dewatering systems designed to exert different shear forces on the biomass, different degrees of cell disruption of the biomass can be achieved, resulting, for example, in wastewater from the two dewatering systems exhibiting different protein concentrations and levels of contaminants.

[0060] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a heat recovery device. The heat recovery device can be configured, in particular, to warm the biomass and / or process water. Preferably, the heat recovery device is configured to support the drying and / or dewatering process. For example, the heat recovery device can be configured to conserve the energy introduced by dewatering in the biomass (storage and / or transport for drying is usually thermally insulated), thus providing preheated biomass for drying that no longer needs to be heated to this preheating temperature. Numerous other heat recovery options within the system are possible.For example, the heat from the wastewater heated by the pressing energy can be recovered from the dewatering process.

[0061] According to one exemplary embodiment, the storage unit is equipped with a storage unit data processing system configured to store and / or wirelessly transmit measured values ​​and / or to acquire one of the following values ​​using sensors: humidity, temperature, biomass moisture content, gas analysis details (especially CO2 and CO values), chemical measurements, geographical location, pH value, and / or conductivity. Small storage unit data processing systems can be installed on or in the storage units or simply placed within the biomass. These can be located on the inside and / or outside of the storage unit. When placed on the inside, parameters of the microclimate around the biomass or within the biomass itself can be acquired.This data can include humidity, temperature, biomass moisture content, gas analysis details (especially CO2 and CO values), chemical measurements, pH value, and / or conductivity. Sensors mounted both inside and outside the storage unit can record data such as temperature and / or location (via GPS). The storage unit's data processing system can store the collected values ​​locally and / or transmit them to a receiving station for evaluation via a communication system (e.g., LoRa). Due to the low energy consumption of such systems today, a lifetime battery can be integrated, and / or the necessary energy can be generated through energy harvesting. The storage unit's data processing system can be designed for easy detection and removal when the biomass is being used (e.g.,...).The bales can be coated with a magnetic material so they can be sorted out with a strong magnet and reused; alternatively, they can have a suitable mechanical shape (too large for a sieve, round like a sphere so they roll off a conveyor belt, etc.). Alternatively, such a system can have a significantly different specific gravity than the biomass, allowing the system to be separated based on gravity. Additionally, sensor readings can detect, for example, a lack of tightness (e.g., holes) in the film. Such identified bales can then be used to optimize the energy content of the pellets before their intended storage date.

[0062] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system is designed to produce more than 50 kg / h of fuel from pressed biomass, in particular more than 150 kg / h, and preferably more than 500 kg / h. It has been shown that the system according to the invention is particularly advantageous in industrial production with higher material throughput. In plants that produce more than 50 kg, in particular more than 150 kg, and preferably more than 500 kg of fuel from pressed biomass per hour, the problems of quality assurance and optimal resource utilization become paramount. The standardized moisture distribution in the raw material, as determined by the invention, addresses these aspects of large-scale production to a particularly high degree.

[0063] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to the use of biomass stored under (mechanical) pressure (for at least one day) in a process for producing fuel from pressed biomass, in particular in a process for producing fuel from pressed biomass according to the first aspect.

[0064] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a computer-readable medium on which a computer program is stored, wherein the computer program is configured such that, when executed on a processor, it controls and / or regulates a method and / or a system for producing fuel from compressed biomass according to the first or second aspect.

[0065] In a fifth aspect, the present invention relates to a program element which is configured such that, when executed on a processor, it controls and / or regulates a method and / or a system for producing fuel from pressed biomass according to the first or second aspect.

[0066] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURE Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a system 100 for the production of fuel from pressed biomass according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0067] System 100 for producing fuel from pressed biomass comprises a washing unit 110 (which may optionally include a water jet cutter), a comminution unit 120, which may in particular be a fine comminution unit, one or more mechanical dewatering units 130, a drying unit 140, and a shaping unit 150. These components can, in principle, be those described in the literature mentioned above.

[0068] The system 100 for producing fuel from compressed biomass further comprises one or more storage units 160 (Figure 1 shows three storage units 160 as an example; however, there can, of course, be more or fewer than three storage units) configured to store biomass, at least partially, under mechanical pressure for at least one day. This allows a significantly more homogeneous biomass, particularly with regard to moisture distribution but also with regard to the degree of microbial decomposition, to be supplied to the subsequent components of the system 100. As a result, the subsequent process steps in the production of fuel from the biomass can be carried out more efficiently and thus more energy-savingly, and the resulting fuel also has a higher energy yield and a lower proportion of impurities. The storage units 160 can be, in particular, big bags and / or round bales.

[0069] The system 100 shown in Figure 1 for producing fuel from compressed biomass further comprises an optional acquisition unit 162 configured to electronically acquire data from the individual storage units 160 upon receipt, production, and / or processing; an optional moisture determination unit 164 configured to determine the moisture content of the (stored) biomass; and an optional injection device 166 configured to inject water or steam into a storage unit 160. Additionally, one or more of the storage units 160 are equipped with an optional storage unit data processing unit 168 configured to store and / or wirelessly transmit measured values ​​and / or to acquire one of the following values ​​using sensors: humidity, temperature, biomass water content, gas analysis details, chemical measurements, geographic location, pH value, and / or conductivity.

[0070] The system 100 shown in Figure 1 for producing fuel from pressed biomass further comprises an optional feeding device 170 configured to feed the storage units 160 into the system 100, in particular semi-automatically, preferably fully automatically, an optional opening device 172 configured to open and / or empty the storage units 160 during feeding into the system 100 in such a way as to retain and / or sort out foreign material, and an optional detection unit 174 configured to detect concentrations of contaminants and / or foreign substances.

[0071] Finally, the system 100 shown in Figure 1 for producing fuel from pressed biomass further comprises an optional data processing unit 180 configured to store the position of a storage unit 160 (the data processing unit 180 can, of course, also interact with other components of the system 100, as schematically indicated by the various lines emanating from the data processing unit 180 in Figure 1), and an optional heat recovery device 190, which is configured in particular to heat the biomass and / or process water and preferably supports the drying and / or dewatering process.

[0072] The present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments and examples. However, the invention is not limited to these, and various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0073] List of reference signs

[0074] 100 Systems for producing fuel from pressed biomass

[0075] 110 washing units

[0076] 120 shredding unit

[0077] 130 mechanical drainage equipment

[0078] 140 drying equipment

[0079] 150 shaping equipment

[0080] 160 storage units

[0081] 162 recording units

[0082] 164 Moisture determination unit

[0083] 166 Injection device

[0084] 168 storage unit - data processing system

[0085] 170 Feed device

[0086] 172 Opening device

[0087] 174 Detection unit

[0088] 180 data processing systems

[0089] 190 Heat recovery device

Claims

REQUIREMENTS 1. A process for producing fuel from compressed biomass, the process comprising: Providing biomass; Washing of the biomass; Shredding, especially fine shredding, of biomass; Mechanical dewatering of the biomass; Drying of the biomass; Shaping of the biomass, characterized in that the provided biomass was stored at least partially under mechanical pressure for at least one day.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the provided biomass is subjected to a mean mechanical pressure of over 20 kg / m³. 2 , especially above 50 kg / m² 2 , preferably over 100 kg / m² 2 , was stored.

3. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the provided biomass was stored in a storage unit (160), in particular a BigBag and / or a round bale.

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the provided biomass was stored under mechanical pressure for at least 5 days, in particular at least 20 days, preferably at least 50 days.

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the provided biomass was stored at a temperature below 10 °C, in particular below 5 °C, preferably below 0 °C.

6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the provided biomass was subjected during storage to a plurality of temperature fluctuations over a temperature range of more than 5 °C, in particular more than 8 °C, preferably more than 12 °C.

7. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the biomass is of plant origin, in particular selected from the group consisting of water hyacinths, seagrass, algae, grass clippings, leaves, green waste and combinations thereof.

8. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the provision of the biomass comprises combining, in particular mixing, biomass from storage units (160) with different properties.

9. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the provision of the biomass comprises determining the moisture content of the biomass.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the moisture content of the biomass is increased before processing, in particular wherein a resting period is observed after this moisture increase.

11. Method according to claim 10, wherein water or steam is injected into a storage unit (160) to increase the humidity, in particular with a mandrel-shaped injection device (166), wherein the injection device (166) preferably has several mandrel-shaped elements and / or a mandrel-shaped element with several outlets for the release of water or steam.

12. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the provided biomass is wrapped with a film, in particular with a A film that has water vapor diffusion-retarding properties, wherein the film preferably consists predominantly of plastic, particularly preferably contains polyethylene and / or is UV-stabilized.

13. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the biomass is provided in a storage unit (160) which is opened in such a way that foreign material is retained and / or sorted out, wherein preferably several systems for retaining foreign material are used sequentially.

14. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the biomass is moistened before washing, in particular wherein the time interval between moistening and subsequent mechanical dewatering is at least 10 minutes, in particular at least 30 minutes, in particular at least 2 hours, in particular at least 6 hours.

15. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical dewatering of the biomass is carried out in multiple stages, in particular wherein the shear forces acting on the biomass of the different dewatering devices differ from one another, preferably that the wastewater compositions of the different dewatering devices differ from one another.

16. System (100) for producing fuel from compressed biomass, the system (100) comprising: a washing unit (110); a comminution device (120), in particular a fine comminution device; a mechanical dewatering device (130); a drying device (140); a shaping device (150), characterized in that the system (100) further comprises one or more storage units (160) configured to store biomass at least partially under mechanical pressure for at least one day.

17. System (100) according to claim 16, wherein the storage unit (160) comprises a BigBag and / or a round bale.

18. System (100) according to claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the storage units (160) filled with biomass are individually manipulable before processing and / or weigh between 200 kg and 2000 kg, in particular between 400 kg and 1500 kg, preferably between 600 and 1200 kg.

19. System (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the system (100) further comprises a recording unit (162) configured to electronically record the individual storage units (160) upon receipt, production and / or processing, and / or wherein the individual storage units (160) have an identification feature, in particular wherein the recording and / or the identification feature comprises at least one data element from the group consisting of content description, supplier identification, composition details, weight, volume, moisture, temperature, time / date information, contaminant details, inference information on dry matter content and place of origin.

20. System (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the system (100) further comprises a moisture determination unit (164) configured to determine the moisture content of the biomass.

21. System (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the system (100) further comprises an injection device (166), in particular a mandrel-shaped injection device (166), configured to inject water or steam into a storage unit (160), wherein preferably the injection device (166) has several mandrel-shaped elements and / or a mandrel-shaped element with several outlets for dispensing water or steam.

22. System (100) according to one of claims 16 to 21, wherein the system (100) comprises several storage units (160) that are arranged decentrally, in particular wherein a data processing system (180) tracks, coordinates and / or optimizes the transport of the storage units (160).

23. System (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 22, wherein the storage unit (160) comprises a film enclosing the biomass, in particular a film having water vapor diffusion-retarding properties, wherein preferably the film consists predominantly of plastic, particularly preferably contains polyethylene and / or is UV-stabilized.

24. System (100) according to one of claims 16 to 23, wherein the system (100) further comprises a feeding device (170) configured to feed the storage units (160) into the system (100), in particular semi-automatically, preferably fully automatically.

25. System (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 24, wherein the system (100) further comprises an opening device (172) configured to open and / or empty the storage units (160) when feeding them into the system (100) in such a way that non-biomass material is retained and / or sorted out, wherein preferably several systems for retaining non-biomass material are used sequentially.

26. System (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 25, wherein the system (100) further comprises a detection unit (174) configured to detect concentrations of interfering substances and / or foreign substances, in particular such that these can be assigned to a group of storage units (160), preferably to a single storage unit (160), and particularly preferably that measures can be taken on the basis of this assignment.

27. System (100) according to one of claims 16 to 26, wherein the system (100) further comprises a data processing system (180) configured to store the position of a storage unit (160), in particular wherein the transport route is optimized with a data processing system (180) based on the storage location of a storage unit (160), preferably that the storage unit (160) can be located again even when covered, in particular when covered with snow, based on the stored position, particularly preferably that a GPS system is used.

28. System (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 27, wherein the system (100) is housed in several individual enclosures, in particular wherein these are compatible with transport systems and / or provide at least one of the following additional benefits: sound insulation, energy optimization, odor reduction, installation simplification, logistics optimization and / or transport simplification.

29. System (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 28, wherein the mechanical dewatering device (130) is a multi-stage dewatering device (130) or comprises several dewatering devices (130), in particular wherein the shear forces acting on the biomass of the different dewatering device stages or of the different dewatering devices (130) differ from one another, preferably that the wastewater compositions of the different drainage system stages or the different Drainage facilities (130) differ from one another.

30. System (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 29, wherein the system (100) further comprises a heat recovery device (190), in particular wherein the heat recovery device (190) is configured to lead to the heating of the biomass and / or process water, wherein the heat recovery device (190) is preferably configured to support the drying and / or dewatering process.

31. System (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 30, wherein the storage unit (160) is equipped with a storage unit data processing system (168) configured to store and / or wirelessly transmit measured values ​​and / or to acquire one of the following values ​​using sensors: humidity, temperature, biomass water content, gas analysis details, chemical measurements, geographical location, pH value and / or conductivity.

32. System (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 31, wherein the system (100) is designed to have a production quantity of fuel from pressed biomass of more than 50 kg / h, in particular more than 150 kg / h, preferably more than 500 kg / h.

33. Use of pressurized biomass in a process for producing fuel from compressed biomass, in particular in a process according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

34. Computer-readable medium on which a computer program is stored, wherein the computer program is configured such that, when executed on a processor, it performs a procedure according to one of the Claims 1 to 15 and / or a system (100) according to any one of the claims 16 to 32 controls and / or regulates.

35. Program element which, when executed on a processor, controls and / or regulates a method according to any one of claims 1 to 15 and / or a system (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 32.

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