This project aims to enhance the pyrolysis process and repurpose an industrial by-product, the filtration cake, into solid biofuels in the form of energy briquettes. The filtration cake, a by-product of the pyrolytic oil filtration process, consists of fine biochar particles. These particles, too light to be captured by the cyclone, pass through and condense with pyrolysis gases. With a daily production rate of 7 to 9 tons, this by-product remains unutilized, representing an untapped economic and environmental opportunity.
The project's goal is to optimize pyrolysis parameters to improve process efficiency and develop high-quality solid biofuels from this co-product generated during pyrolytic oil production at Bioénergie AE Côte-Nord's (BAECN) facility.
The project is structured around several specific objectives:
- Optimization of pyrolysis parameters to reduce the generation of filtration cake.
- Stabilization of the filtration cake prior to densification to mitigate fire risks during storage at the facility.
- Optimization of densification processes, including pressure, temperature, pyrolytic oil content, and post-treatment duration.
- Testing the generated biofuels in pilot combustion systems to evaluate their energy efficiency and environmental impact while assessing associated risks (e.g., explosion, fire).
This initiative aligns with sustainable development goals by contributing to the energy transition through the creation of renewable fuels and supporting the circular economy. The involvement of SEREX, a technical expert in bioenergy, provides critical expertise to ensure the viability of the densification processes. Beyond the benefits for BAECN, the project could help reduce reliance on fossil fuels in carbon-intensive industrial sectors.
