mathematical and experimental models for drying of biomass

Abstract

Drying of biomass prior to combustion process has now a day become

a key factor in improving the efficiency of combustion processes in industrial

and residential sectors. Given the growing importance of this

process, the researchers have developed a large number of models, both

theoretical and experimental, looking to predict the drying kinetics of

different types of biomass. Although there have been great advances in

the development of models, there is still no unified model to predict the

temperature and moisture profiles for different materials. These difficulties

arise because of the wide range of biomaterials and the great differences

existing between processes.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the state of the

art on models, both mathematical and experimental, currently used to

simulate the drying process of biomass. We also propose key elements

must have a comprehensive unified model on this topic.