Biomass characteristics index: a numerical approach in palm bio-energy estimation

Abstract

In order to give a clear insight of the energy output estimation from the biomass, a comprehensive study on the physical properties of the biomass: bulk density and moisture content is crucial. A Biomass Characteristics Index (BCI) is proposed to represent the relationship between bulk density and moisture content. A numerical framework is developed to determine the BCI. This index is used to estimate the biomass bulk density and moisture content before the calorific value calculation. The classification of biomass according to its specific BCI can forecast the related bulk density and moisture content. Therefore, it reduces the hassle and time constraint to get those values through conventional empirical method. This will increase the overall biomass operational management efficiency.