Solid Biomass Combustion Simulation Using OpenFOAM

Abstract

Burning fossil fuels is the primary cause of global warming, with profound impacts on health, ecosystems, and infrastructure. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is crucial. Biomass, a key renewable source, offers benefits like carbon neutrality, lower emissions, and steady generation. Its use has surged, ranking it as the fourth major energy source globally. Combustion is the most common method for biomass energy; however, inefficiencies persist. Therefore, enhancing combustion efficiency is critical for emissions reduction. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models offer a promising avenue for optimization. OpenFOAM, an open-source CFD software, presents a valuable tool for simulating biomass combustion, yet its application in this field remains limited. This chapter proposes a methodology for biomass combustion simulation in OpenFOAM using “coalChemistryFoam” solver, offering a detailed examination of the current state of the field, the mathematical model within OpenFOAM, and the simulation procedure.