The performance and prediction of converting forest residual biomass into solid biofuel, saving fossil fuel and reducing forest fire

Abstract

Converting forest residual biomass into solid biofuel not only transforms waste into renewable energy but also mitigates wildfire risks by reducing fuel in ecosystems. Sixty kinds of biochar were produced from the surface fuels of Dahurian larch, Mongolian Scots pine, Mongolian oak and Manchurian ash. The components and combustion properties were characterized by proximate analysis, ultimate analysis, thermogravimetric analysis and cone calorimeter analysis. The study employed advanced analytical and modeling techniques, including analysis of variance, correlation analysis, multiple regression, principal component analysis, Random Forest algorithms, and structural equation modeling, to systematically evaluate relationships and predict outcomes. From 300℃ to 700℃, forest fuel biochar has a yield of 25.50 % – 58.00 %, C of 56.55 % – 80.09 % dry matter, O of 4.46 % – 20.96 % dry matter, N of 1.11 % – 2.43 % dry matter, ash content of 5.74 % – 30.67 % dry matter, volatile matter content of 4.62 % – 25.14 % dry matter, fixed carbon content of 59.42 % – 82.95 % dry matter. Biofuels recover 80.68–36.18 % of energy from biomass and can be used in steam power plants and cement manufacturing. The usability of coniferous is better than that of broad-leaved leaves. Biochar produced at low temperatures has better and faster ignition and combustion performance, while biochar obtained at high temperatures burns more stably and completely, generating less smoke and CO. The elemental composition is the most significant factor influencing the performance and energy recovery. More suitable prediction equations for higher heating value and ash-free calorific value were obtained. The research has enhanced the availability of bioenergy production from forest residual biomass, offering dual benefits of mitigating wildfires and replacing fossil fuels.