ON-LINE BIOMASS MOISTURE CONTENT MEASUREMENT USING NEAR-INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY(PPT)

摘要

On-line characterization of biomass properties in the forest industry could help to optimizeprocesses, increase production rate and reduce downtime.To this end, a sensor based on near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy was developed and used in two applications to monitorbiomass moisture content (MC) and temperature in the kraft pulp industry. Calibration models were designed in the laboratory for two different types of biomass (wood chips and hog fuel) under normal and freezing conditions. These calibration models were then transferred to sensors installed over conveyor belts in two different mills. Validation samples were collected in the mills over a one year trial period to assess the robustness of the models. Examples for potential use of the biomass sensor for digester and power boiler control are discussed. The results demonstrate that the biomass sensor can be employed in process control to improve operational efficiencies and reduce production costs.