Continuous Mixer and Belt Filter for Biomass Sugar Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solid/liquid separation techniques in biomass treatment processes are inefficient and lack versatility, particularly in handling mixtures with varying characteristics, which can affect the quality and efficiency of sugar liquor extraction and subsequent processing steps.
Innovation Solution
A process involving a continuous mixer followed by a counter-currently operating belt filter, with partial recycling of the liquid phase from the filter to the mixer, to enhance the separation efficiency and concentration of sugary liquors from lignocellulosic biomass, allowing for more efficient extraction and upgrading of sugars.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional solid/liquid separation techniques are used in biomass treatment processes, then the separation can be performed with simple equipment, but the separation efficiency is low and the sugar liquor concentration is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The separation process is divided into multiple stages: a first separation step using a filter to separate solid particles from liquid, followed by a second separation step using a centrifugal separator to further separate the liquid phases. This segmentation allows each device to be optimized for its specific function, achieving high overall separation efficiency while using standard equipment types.
Solution Approach 2:
A decantation tank serves as an intermediary device between the filter and the centrifugal separator. It allows heavy solid particles to settle by gravity before the liquid proceeds to centrifugal separation, reducing the load on subsequent separation equipment and improving overall process efficiency without requiring complex integrated systems.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional separation techniques are used, then the process is simple to operate, but the sugar liquor extraction quality is poor and water consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The process recovers and reuses the centrifugal separation liquid back in the pretreatment step, transforming what would be waste liquid into a valuable process input. This reduces fresh water consumption while maintaining high sugar liquor concentration in the final extract, addressing both quality and resource efficiency requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The decantation tank performs preliminary separation of heavy solid particles before the liquid enters the centrifugal separator. This preliminary action prevents clogging of the centrifugal separator and improves its efficiency, enabling better sugar liquor concentration extraction while reducing the volume of liquid requiring further processing and water input.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional separation techniques are used, then the equipment is easy to maintain, but the process lacks versatility in handling mixtures with varying characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The combination of filter, decantation tank, and centrifugal separator creates a multi-functional separation system that can effectively handle various types of solid/liquid mixtures with different characteristics. Each component addresses specific separation needs (particle filtration, gravity settling, centrifugal separation), making the overall process versatile while using standard, maintainable equipment types.
Solution Approach 2:
The process operates continuously with the centrifugal separator processing liquid from the decantation tank and returning separated liquid to the pretreatment step. This continuous operation allows the system to adapt to varying feed characteristics without interruption, improving versatility while maintaining steady-state operation that simplifies control and maintenance.
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
This approach enables robust, efficient, and industrially feasible solid/liquid separation, achieving high sugar concentrations in the extracted liquors, improving the overall biomass treatment process by optimizing the recovery of sugary liquors and reducing water consumption.
Implementation Method 1
an upstream substep b1 of contacting the solid/liquid mixture performed with a continuous mixer using a mixing fluid
Implementation Method 2
a downstream sub-step b2 of extraction/washing performed with a continuous filter, notably a belt filter, using a washing fluid
Implementation Method 3
with at least partial recycling of a liquid phase extracted from the belt filter at the outlet of the filter as a mixing fluid at the inlet of the mixer
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a process for treating a lignocellulosic biomass, with:a. Pretreatment of the biomass via at least one cooking or steam explosion operation, so as to obtain a pretreated substrate,b. Liquid/solid separation on at least a portion of the pretreated substrate, comprising two successive substeps:an upstream substep b1 of contacting the solid/liquid mixture performed with a continuous mixer (M) using a mixing fluid,a downstream sub-step b2 of extraction/washing performed with a continuous filter, using a washing fluid, to obtain a solid phase enriched in solid and a plurality of liquid phases enriched in liquid, with at least partial recycling of a liquid phase extracted from the filter at the inlet of the mixer as a mixing fluid.