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Introduction
The term ‘Biomass’ refers to organic matter which can be converted to energy.
The name ‘Biomass’ was invented in 1975 to describe natural materials used as
energy sources (Bhattacharya S.C., 2003). It is well known that biomass
energy is the oldest source of energy in human history, as it dates back to man's
first fire.
From the present available information and data concerning biomass, it's supply,
at the present, counts for 14% of the world energy sources (IENICA, 2007). In
the developing countries 40% of energy is derived from biomass, while in the
USA it count for 4%, Sweden 14% and Austria 10% (Hall et. al. 1992).
The Process
([CH2O] + H2O) + O2
The organic resources that are used to produce energy using these processes are
collectively called "biomass".
The Elements
The main chemical elements in biomass are carbon and hydrogen, with others in
addition, such as Oxygen, Nitrogen and sulfur. The last element, however, exists
only in very small quantities.
The Energy
Types of Biomass
Biomass includes forest and mill residues, agricultural crops & wastes, wood &
wood wastes, animal wastes, livestock operation residues, aquatic plants, fast-
growing trees and plants, and municipal & industrial wastes.
Biomass energy can be divided into two categories: modern biomass and
traditional biomass. In most cases the modern biomass involves large-scale uses
as it tries to replace the conventional fossil fuel energy sources still being used in
various parts of the world. These large scale uses may include forest wood and
agricultural residues, urban wastes, biogas and energy crops. Most traditional
biomass is generally found in developing countries. Biomass materials in this case
may include various types of wood, charcoal, rice husks, animal dung and other
plant residues (Fletcher S., et al. 2005).
We know that 40% of the European Union's energy supply depends on oil
imported from OPEC countries Various research and studies predict that in the
coming years that there will be an increased dependence on oil and gas imports,
this will result in the share of imports in the European Union (EU) up to 70% by
2030 (Ignaciuk A., et al. 2004).
Generally speaking, any type of energy crops can be used as a biomass materials
for the purpose of generating energy, however, considering that the aim of
various biomass projects in general and this project in particular is to generate
energy economically viable on commercial scale, then the selection process in
choosing the most suitable biomass materials would have to undergo strict
testing from scientific and technical factors to the market, business and
regulations factors. Having said that, presently there are a number of popular
examples presently being researched and/or used as an example of the types
biomass materials with possible future commercial use. One of these examples is
‘Short Rotation Coppice’ (Defra. Department of Environment, Food and Rural
Affairs 2002).
Conclusion
Biomass in general, among other renewable sources of energy, is the science and
technology for a new type of energy many predict would be the challenge during
the 21st Century. The research and investigations of various biomass materials,
for long term commercial global fuel use, is the challenge of today and the
investment for the near future. These investigations are expected to produce the
required materials and technologies to replace the fossil fuel, in particular crude
oil, which will be exhausted sooner or later.
References
Najib Altawell
© N. Altawell, 2008