DOE'S Biomass Thermochemical Conversion Program: Current Research Status and Prospects for Technology Transfer

摘要

The US Department of Energy (DOE) is actively developing renewable energy sources through research and development programs sponsored by the Biomass Energy Technology Division. Through research sponsored by its Thermochemical Conversion Program, DOE is studying advanced methods of using thermal energy to generate high value gaseous and liquid fuels as well as heat and electricity. Field management for the Thermochemical Conversion Program is provided by Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) which has been designated the Lead Laboratory for the Program since 1980. Research currently sponsored by the Thermochemical Conversion Program can be divided into three technology areas; gasification, liquid fuels production, and innovative combustion processes. Gasification research is directed primarily toward the production of medium-energy gases which could be used as fuel gases or as synthesis gases. The primary emphasis of current combustion research is determining the feasibility of directly using biomass feedstocks to power gas turbine systems. Liquid fuels research is directed toward the utilization of pyrolysis and direct liquefaction techniques to generate a variety of olefinic and aromatic hydrocarbon fuels. Prospects for technology transfer of selected research projects is discussed. (ERA citation 09:028036)