In this lab investigation, students will become familiar with biomass size reduction, an important processing step in biofuel production. Size reduction improves the ease of transportation of biomass and increases the specific surface area to improve its reactivity for biological or chemical conversion.
Reduction of particle size is a mechanical process typically consisting of cutting, chopping, or grinding. Because these processes require significant energy input, accurate measurement of particle size is crucial so that over-processing does not occur. Measuring the distribution of particle sizes can be done in a variety of ways. This lab requires a low-cost document scanner and public domain software.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion, students will be able to:
- Understand the process and importance of biomass particle size analysis
- Understand the process and importance of image analysis
- Calculate various average particle sizes and distributions
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Concepts/Skills
Energy Content, Biomass Processing, Particle Analysis, Image Analysis
Prior Knowledge
Background provided
Time Required
90 minutes
Required Supplies
Desktop document scanner, small metal spatula (or similar tool), computer with ImageJ software, computer with spreadsheet software, nut or coffee grinder