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The main objective of the BeonNAT project is to create added-value bio-based products by growing underused tree and shrub species in marginal land. One of the species selected within the project is juniper (Juniperus communis L). Foliage biomass coming from a natural population in Spain was selected and a first sampling of wild biomass (1000 kg fresh plants with stem diameters below 50 mm) was performed. This biomass was distilled and, after it, different alternatives were defined in the project to obtain bioproducts from the distilled biomass following the cascade concept. Among them, absorbents for the pet industry and biochar have been selected in this work. Concerning the steam distillation, an essential oil yield of 0.44% (w/w d.b) was obtained and the characterisation of the essential oil compounds showed that it was close to meet the limits considered by the ISO 8897:2010. A fraction of the distilled biomass was used to produce pellets, whose quality as absorbents for the pet industry was promising. Finally, the rest of the distilled biomass was used to obtain biochar with a yield of 28.79 % (w/w d.b) and characteristics which indicated a good degree of carbonisation and stability., Proceedings of the 30th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 9-12 May 2022, Online, pp. 1035-1041

Slow pyrolysis of ligno-cellulosic biomass residues represents a renewed opportunity to produce both sustainable bioenergy and high value co-products. The present work aims at evaluating the possible synergies for the integration of a slow pyrolysis plant within a steel-making plant, focusing on the use of biochar as a possible coal substitute to be used in a blast furnace. Within this framework, a model is proposed to calculate a preliminary sizing for the slow pyrolysis plant, and calculate the mass and energy balance for the integrated plant. Finally, it evaluates the main key economic parameters and performs specific sensitivity analyses. The model has been developed within the activities carried out by the H2020 MUSIC project, and applied to the Italian Case Study, located in the Apulia region and considering ArcelorMittal Taranto steel-making plant. The model estimated that more than 60 kt/yr of biochar could be produced for coal substitution, and 38M Nm3/yr of Natural Gas used in the steel plant could be substituted by pyrolysis gases. This in turn would lead to more than 240 ktCO2/yrof avoided emissions, that could be traded on the EU ETS market. Overall, the economic parameters proved viable, with a 7-years Pay Back Time and an Internal Return Rate for the investment of 19%., Proceedings of the 30th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 9-12 May 2022, Online, pp. 840-845

Efficient digestate management from anaerobic digestion (AD) is one of the most important priorities for medium term bioenergy and bioproducts field development. Carbonized solid digestate results to be a sterilized and easily transportable value-added product: the so-called biochar. In this study, two digestate carbonization processes have been tested in lab and pilot-scale at different process conditions: slow pyrolysis carbonization and hydrothermal carbonization (HTC). The digestate came from an AD plant located in Italy, fed mainly with barley silage and, in smaller quantities, wheat and herbaceous silage and poultry manure. The digestate had a moisture content of 72.6 % w.b. w/w. The slow pyrolysis was carried out, with the feedstock dried at 75 °C for 48h, in a 1.5 kg h-1 plant, with a heating rate of about 7 °C min-1 to reach the maximum process temperature of 500 °C, which was maintained for 1 h. HTC, instead, is a technology capable of directly exploiting the digestate high water content. HTC experiments were carried out in a 27 ml micro-reactor, testing different temperatures and residence times (200-250 °C and 0.5-3 h, respectively). Yields and characteristics of the products were analyzed and discussed. Some char properties were also compared to European and International biochar standards., Proceedings of the 25th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 12-15 June 2017, Stockholm, Sweden, pp. 1063-1069

Exposure to microgravity has been associated with several physiological changes in astronauts, including an osteoporosis-like loss in bone mass. Osteoporosis is a disease of bones which leads to a high risk of fracture and other problems, mainly due to the reduction of the bone mineral density. The lack of weight-bearing forces makes microgravity an ideal physical stimulus to assess bone cell responses [1]. In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of nanoparticles as a countermesasure to microgravity-induced osteoporosis on osteoblasts cells. Materials and Methods Materials: powders of hydroxyapatite (HAP) and HAP enriched with Sr (HAP-Sr) were synthetized by sol-gel method. Hydroxyapatites powders were firstly characterized by ICP, XRD, N2 sorption, SEM and TEM analysis. Nanoparticles: HAPs and HAP-Sr were dispersed in Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) and treated by ultrasound sonication. Nanoparticles characterization: nanoparticles were characterized by using FT-IR to investigate the interaction between materials and BSA, by dynamic light scattering (DLS) to study hydrodynamic radius, by Z-potential for the surface charges and by TEM to measure size and visualize the shape. Cells: Human osteosarcoma cell line SAOS-2 was obtained from the American Type Culture Collection. Cells were cultured in completed McCoy's 5A modified medium and treated with nanoparticles suspensions for 1, 3 and 7 days changing medium two times per week. Untreated cells were used as control. Cell viability: Using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) test (Sigma-Aldrich), viability of treated and untreated cells was evaluated after 1, 3 and 7 days of culture and results were expressed as percentage related to control. Cell morphology: To investigate cell morphology, after 1 and 7 days cells were fixed with glutaraldehyde, dehydrated with alcohol and observed using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Results The size of the nanoparticles measured by DLS is around 100 nm. Higher values were observed for the nHAPs enriched with Sr ( nHAP-SR) due to the greater atomic radius of Strontium if compared to Calcium. The FT-IR spectra shows the modifications of the amino-groups bands of the protein and phosphate groups of HAP, suggesting an interaction at the molecular level of these groups. After 1, 3 and 7 days of nanoparticles treatment,cell viability results reveal an effect of nHAP-Sr on cell proliferation that was 35% higher than control (p

Exposure to microgravity has been associated with several physiological changes in astronauts, including an osteoporosis-like loss in bone mass. Osteoporosis is a disease of bones which leads to high risk of fractures and other problems, mainly due to the reduction of the bone mineral density. The lack of weight-bearing forces makes microgravity an ideal physical stimulus to assess bone cell responses. In this study we aimed to determine the effects of nanoparticles as contromeasure to micro-gravity induced osteoporosis on osteoblast cells. Nanoparticles of hydroxyapatite (nHaps) and strontium-enriched hydroxyapatite (Sr-nHaps) were obtained by power dispersion in bovine serum albumin. Physical-chemical characterization of nHAP and Sr-nHAP measuring hydrodynamic radius, z-potential and taking images a transmission electron microscope observation (TEM). Biological studies were performed in vitro by evaluating osteoblast viability and calcium deposition in the presence/absence of simulated microgravity with or without both type of nanoparticles. The results show that osteoblast viability like as calcium deposition were increased by treatment with Sr-nHAPs in simulated microgravity if compared to the untreated or untreated cells with nHAPs. Whole these preliminary data seems to suggest that these nanoparticles could be a useful system for the delivery of strontium for the treatment of osteoporosis in simulated microgravity.

Microalgae are photosynthetic microorganisms living in marine or freshwater environment. In this study, samples of three different microalgae, fresh water Chlorella from open pond and marine Chlorella and Nanochloropsis from photo­bioreactors, differing in origin and growing medium and condition, were analyzed and subjected to intermediate pyrolysis in a novel research reactor to settle a preliminary characterization of these microorganisms as intermediate energy carriers. Microalgae were characterized in terms of elemental composition (CHONS and P) and relative abundance of constituents (protein, lipid, carbohydrates); then, approx.1 kg of each strain was subjected to pyrolysis at 450°C and the bio­oil recovered and analyzed. In this study, bio­oil from fast pyrolysis of pine chips was retained as the reference fuels form comparison purpose. Microalgae pyrolysis oil exhibited superior properties as intermediate energy carrier compared to pyrolysis oil from fast pyrolysis of pine chips, in particular higher HHV, higher carbon and hydrogen content, and lower oxygen; nonetheless, pyrolysis oils from microalgae resulted to be more viscous and less homogenous than the reference bio­oil. A corrosion test was also performed on alluminium alloy, copper, AISI 304 and AISI 316L strips and VITON, NBR and silicon elastomers to assess the aggressiveness of the bio­oils from microalgae compared to that of pine chips bio­oil on these common material. Bio­oil from microalgae was also analysed in GC/MS and GC/FID to quantify part of its constituents to make a preliminary estimate of its potential for the extraction or separation of valuable components., Proceedings of the 21st European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 3-7 June 2013, Copenhagen, Denmark, pp. 494-499

To make biorefinery processes valuable from both economical and energy perspectives, all components of the starting feedstock need to be properly valorized. In the present work the results obtained in steam/oxygen gasification tests on a lignin rich residue from second generation bioethanol production process are presented. The residue was collected at the end of a process of simultaneous hydrolysis and fermentation, adopted to convert sugars from steam-exploded biomass. The gasification tests were carried out with a bubbling fluidized bed reactor at: 850 °C, 1 atm, 0.3 equivalence ratio (ER) and 0.6 steam/biomass (S/B). Under these conditions, it was found an average dry gas composition of: 25%v CO, 37 %v H2, 30 %v CO2, 7 %v CH4, 2% C2+ and a gas yield of 1.3 Nm3/kgdaf. Clogging of the feeding screw and appearance of bed defluidization were occasionally observed. Nevertheless, the gasification tests were run for several hours without interruption. Based on the data of performance of the gasification facility it was possible to evaluate the potential of power production. The electrical output was found consistent with the internal needs of a commercial plant for bioethanol production, sized to process up to 200 ktonnes/y of biomass., Proceedings of the 21st European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 3-7 June 2013, Copenhagen, Denmark, pp. 430-434

Micro gas turbines units are reliable and versatile units for distributed combined heat and power production (CHP). Compared to internal combustion engines, CHP units based on micro gas turbines offer several advantages, among which the compactness, the high power­to­weight ratio, lower pollutant emissions and lower maintenance costs. Depending on the specific type of gas turbine, also fuel flexibility could be higher than engines. This study report on the preliminary results obtained with a small size (25 kWe) Garrett GTP 30­67, liquid fuel micro gas turbine, which was adapted to run on alternative first generation biofuels, such as vegetable oil and biodiesel and pyrolysis oil. An in­house test bench for biofuel testing, capable of accommodating the micro gas turbine, was designed, engineered and built. In this paper, results from experimental measurement on the micro gas turbine are presented. Micro gas turbine performance (e.g specific fuel consumption, heat rate) were monitored and main exhaust emissions, i.e. CO and NOx, measured between idle and full load when feeding biodiesel, vegetable oil or pyrolysis oil to the engine; results were then collated with literature and accommodated with respect to environmental pressure and temperature to standard testing conditions (ISO/ASTM). Preliminary advice on engine operation with pyrolysis oil will also be given., Proceedings of the 21st European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 3-7 June 2013, Copenhagen, Denmark, pp. 514-516

Small scale biomass gasification is one of the most interesting option for lignocellulosic biomass and wastes. Small scale systems are attractive for farmers since the low energy density of biomass fuels makes transportation a relevant cost factor: valorisation of agricultural residues is gaining particular interest as they are considered "no land using" and potentially low cost biomass. CREAR /RE-CORD installed, in an experimental area located South of Florence, an innovative gasification system for multi-fuel applications developed by Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore. The innovative open top downdraft double fire reactor configuration is capable of processing agricultural and forestry residues, and the cooling and cleaning system makes the gas fit as a fuel for a 70 kWe spark ignition engine. The paper highlights the outcome of a series of test with pruning residues as a feedstock, conveniently pre-treated in order to address low density and high ash content issues. Gas composition and quality of producer gas measured on line indicated very low level of contaminants in the gas and cold gas efficiency was found to be in excess of 75 %. Engine was tested and was found to respond to varying load excellently. Peak load of 70 kWe was achieved using a resistive load bank., Proceedings of the 21st European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 3-7 June 2013, Copenhagen, Denmark, pp. 480-484

Study on microalgae massive cultivation production dates back to the ‘70s, when the crude oil shortage following the first oil shock caused a sudden steep rise of the real price of crude, and alternative pathways for the production of fossil fuel substitutes were investigated. Compared to conventional energy crops, microalgae exhibit significant potential advantages as a feedstock for the production of biofuels, because typically produces more oil, consume less space and could be grown on land unsuitable for agriculture. The feasibility of producing liquid biofuels and gases from thermochemical or biochemical conversion of microalgae has been demonstrated for a range of species. In this study, a preliminary review of the current and past technology for the pyrolytic processing of microalgae biomass is presented. Data and process technology from literature are critically analyzed and compared toward the more established process technology for pyrolysis of lignocellulosic material. Despite the amount of data, energy­related literature still lacks of detail on the biological aspect algal cell growth conditions. These aspects play a significant role in determining the economical and environmental sustainability of the process, especially in terms of energy and growth media input. The still open areas of research are highlighted in the paper., Proceedings of the 19th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 6-10 June 2011, Berlin, Germany, pp. 807-816

Micro gas turbines units are reliable and versatile units for on­site combined heat and power production (CHP). Compared to internal combustion engines, CHP units based on micro gas turbines offer several advantages, among which the compactness, the high power­to­weight ratio, lower pollutant emissions and lower maintenance costs. Depending on the specific type of gas turbine, also fuel flexibility could be higher than engines. Within the framework of the EU­Russian Federation FP7 cooperative and specifically the Bioliquids­CHP project, a Garrett GTP 30­67 liquid fuel (diesel) micro gas turbine was adapted to run on alternative first generation biofuels, such as vegetable oil and biodiesel. An in­house test bench for microgasturbine characterization and biofuel testing, capable of accommodating the engine was designed, engineered and built. In this research work, results from experimental measurement on the micro gas turbine are presented. Micro gas turbine performance and main exhaust emissions were measured a various load when feeding biodiesel, vegetable oil (or blending of them) to the engine. Measured exhaust emissions included CO and NOx. The experiences gained on the operation of the micro gas turbine on first generation biofuels will serve as a basis for testing of bio­oil from fast pyrolysis of pine and straw and emulsion between bio­oil and biodiesel in the Bioliquids micro gas turbine. Authors wish to acknowledge the European Commission and FASI for the support given to the present research work, as well as the project coordinator BTG and the project partners., Proceedings of the 19th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 6-10 June 2011, Berlin, Germany, pp. 1672-1680

A survey on available MGT suitable for the Bioliquids-CHP project purpose has been carried out, comparing technical characteristics towards needed modifications. The MGT architecture was carefully examined, as the possibility to implement minor modifications largely depends on the type of MGT: issues such as combustion – chamber type, injector characteristics, fuel line, and control system, were the driving factor for comparing the various options. The criteria which drove the selection of the MGT for the project were therefore summarised. Main fuel physical and chemical characteristics were reported and compared towards standard fossil fuels as diesel oil or kerosene. A preliminary correlative study of droplet evaporation and combustion has been carried out, in order to better understand the peculiarity of each bio-fuel, and data compared to experimental data by Istituto Motori-CNR in Naples, Italy. The only purpose of this activity is to derive preliminary indications about conversion strategies for the MGT Combustion chamber. Finally, preliminary CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) work on the MGT combustion chamber was initiated., Proceedings of the 18th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 3-7 May 2010, Lyon, France, pp. 1036-1042

The use of biomass-derived liquids (in short: bioliquids) instead of solid biomass can help overcome some of the barriers hindering a wider use of biomass in smaller-scale CHP systems. Relevant bioliquids included biodiesel, vegetable oils as well straight and upgraded pyrolysis oil. In this joint EU-Russian research project Bioliquids-CHP prime movers (engines and turbines) will be developed and modified so that these can run efficiently on bioliquids. At the same time, bioliquids will be upgraded and blended in order to facilitate their use in prime movers. Preliminary results with regard to bioliquid selection, production, and characterisation; the selection and modification of a micro gas turbine; and the development of engines and components are discussed. The research also covers NOx emission reduction and control and an assessment of the benefits and economics of bioliquids-based CHP systems in EU and Russian markets., Proceedings of the 18th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 3-7 May 2010, Lyon, France, pp. 1921-1925

Biomass obtained from olive pruning has been torrified at different conditions, namely at 180 - 280°C for 60 -120 min. , grinded with mill having sieve of 50 mesh (0.32 mm), and used as substrate in SHF experiments. The bioconversion has been carried out at flask scale using a mix of cellulosolytic, hemicellulosolitic and ß­glucosidase enzymes, and a commercial strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The comparison between the bioconversion yields achieved using grinded biomass or torrified + grinded biomass highlighted that: 1) Mild torrefaction conditions limit sugar degradation within 5-10 percent; 2) Torrified biomass do not lead to enzymatic and fermentation inhibition. How a torrefaction step could be integrated in an ethanol production process has been preliminary estimated, above all as regard the energy integration. The new developed concept has been patented., Proceedings of the 18th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, 3-7 May 2010, Lyon, France, pp. 1560-1563