ACE 614: Bioenergy Engineering (3 Credit Hours)
Principles and processing methods involved in bioenergy production. Characterization of the properties of biomass: proximate and ultimate analysis, calorific (heating) value, density, moisture content. Classification into Type 1: ligno-cellulosic, starchy, sugar, oilseeds; Type 2:
municipal residual waste, organic waste, sewage sludge, manure; Type 3: biofuels from biomass
conversion processes (solid: biochar; liquids: bioethanol and biodiesel; gaseous: biogas and syngas). Processes for biomass conversion. Introduction to thermochemical, biochemical, and mechanical processes. Types of reactors, chemical equilibrium and reaction kinetics.
Thermochemical conversion (pyrolysis, gasification, reforming, combustion). Biochemical conversion (anaerobic digestion, fermentation). Oil extraction and esterification. Pretreatment of biomass (pelleting; chipping; torrefaction, bio-drying, etc.). Management of solids / liquids /gaseous biomass process waste. Heat and power generation from biomass boilers and stoves.
- Teacher: Collins Udanor