Fluid Dynamic and Mixing Characteristics of Biomass Particles in Fluidized Beds

Background

Despite the efforts in developing technologies to convert biomass into energy employing fluidized beds, few authors have attempted to understand the fluidization mechanics of biomass or it mixture with an inert (Cui & Grace, 2007). Generally, it is assumed that the design and operation of equipment involving biomass can be based on the conventional knowledge of fluidization. The use of fluidized beds stands out with numerous advantages such as: high heat transfer, uniform and controllable temperatures, and efficient gas-solid contact. However, for it occur effectively, the ideal operating conditions and choice of materials must be performed carefully (Basu, 2010; Cui & Grace, 2007; Gómez, Mesa-Pérez, & Brossard-Perez, 2008).

As noted in several studies in subsequent years, biomass does not fluidize or fluidize with low quality without the presence of an inert. The fluidized beds operating conditions for mixtures of biomass and inert particles are classified differently of homogeneous particles. This work will present a literature review and recommendations for readers in order to facilitate fluidized bed designs applying heterogeneous particles (binary mixtures) regarding their fluid dynamic behavior patterns.