The influence of storage and drying methods for Scots pine raw material on mechanical pellet properties and production parameters

Converting solid biomass into pellets through densification greatly improves logistical handling and combustion processes. Raw material properties can affect pellet quality. This study investigated how storage and drying methods for wood (Pinus sylvestris L.) used as a raw material for pellet production influenced pellet durability, bulk density and energy consumption. The pelletization experiments were performed using a Sprout Matador M30 press (nominal production capacity 3.5 tonnes/h). Results showed that pelletization of 11 months stored wood compared to fresh material and high drying temperature (450 °C) compared to 75 °C resulted in higher energy consumption, probably due to increased friction in the matrix caused by the loss of extractives. However, the pellets produced were of higher density than those made from fresh material dried at a low temperature. The latter had the highest durability. Increased energy consumption showed no correlation with pellet durability.