Biomass Conversion Reactor Oxygen Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The logistics of converting biomass from remote locations into energy and other applications are costly due to the high expenses associated with transportation and utilization, as most biomass resources are located in distributed, remote areas.
Innovation Solution
Systems and methods for biomass conversion that include adjusting the oxygen flow rate into a reactor based on reactor and biomass characteristics, and a system configuration with a reactor and outlet conduit designed to efficiently decompose biomass, cool partially decomposed biomass, and recover energy, enhancing energy density and reducing water content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If biomass is transported from remote locations to energy conversion facilities, then energy can be produced, but transportation costs and logistics expenses increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing biomass decomposition and energy conversion at the remote location where biomass originates, rather than transporting raw biomass. The system pre-converts biomass into energy or energy-dense products directly at the source, eliminating the need for costly transportation of raw material while still achieving energy production goals
2Productivity
If oxygen flow rate is increased into the reactor, then decomposition efficiency improves, but energy loss and environmental impact increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a variable oxygen flow rate control system that adjusts oxygen supply based on real-time reactor conditions, biomass characteristics, and decomposition stage. This dynamic adjustment optimizes decomposition efficiency while minimizing energy loss and environmental impact by providing exactly the right amount of oxygen needed at each moment, avoiding excess oxygen that would cause energy waste
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback control mechanisms that monitor reactor parameters such as temperature, pressure, and decomposition progress, then use this information to adjust oxygen flow rate accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures optimal decomposition efficiency while preventing energy loss by responding to actual reactor conditions rather than using fixed high oxygen rates
3Weight of moving object
If biomass is decomposed to improve energy density, then transportability improves, but decomposition process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the decomposition process into distinct stages or zones within the reactor, each optimized for specific decomposition tasks. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high energy density improvement while managing complexity through modular process design, where each segment handles a specific aspect of biomass transformation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution improves the energy density and hydrophobicity of biomass, making it more suitable for combustion and easier to transport, while reducing energy costs and environmental impact through efficient decomposition and energy recovery.
Implementation Method 1
methods of decomposing biomass within a reactor to form a primarily solid product
Implementation Method 2
A method of cooling at least partially decomposed biomass in a system configured for biomass decomposition may comprise flowing a gas over the outlet conduit
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods associated with biomass decomposition are generally described. Certain embodiments are related to adjusting a flow rate of a fluid comprising oxygen into a reactor in which biomass is decomposed. The adjustment may be made, at least in part, based upon a measurement of a characteristic of the reactor and/or a characteristic of the biomass. Certain embodiments are related to cooling at least partially decomposed biomass. The biomass may be cooled by flowing a gas over an outlet conduit in which the biomass is cooled, and then directing the gas to a reactor after it has flowed over the outlet conduit. Certain embodiments are related to systems comprising a reactor and an outlet conduit configured such that greater than or equal to 75% of its axially projected cross-sectional area is occupied by a conveyor. Certain embodiments are related to systems comprising a reactor comprising an elongated compartment having a longitudinal axis arranged substantially vertically and an outlet conduit comprising a conveyor.