Integration

Integration of size reduction and separation is accomplished through concurrent tasks timed to identify connective functions and biomass properties. The proposed work involves an equipment manufacturer to identify functional, commercial, and performance targets for integrating size reduction and separation. The company develops a business plan from the start, and continues to update it based on their increasing role and stake in the project outcome. The company identifies the end-use format of commercial process control factors, such as mass flow rate, operating settings, and other equipment parameters needed for commercialization. Statistical correlations establish the relations between size reduction and separation equipment variables, biomass input variables, and processed biomass output conditions. A former federal biomass program manager leads the identification of biomass feedstock for all project testing. High opportunity feedstock like switchgrass, corn stover, forest residues, and at least a tough straw from rice or flax will be prioritized. Demonstrations of the developed system will target biomass processors, converters, and exhibits to maximize the acceptance and tonnage of high opportunity feedstock.