A pilot vibrating torrefaction system processed rubberwood- and corn-waste pellets at 220-300°C for 16 or 30 minutes. Greater severity increased HHV to 22.4 MJ/kg, about 20% above raw pellets, and improved grindability and moisture resistance, while mass and energy yields declined. Specific electricity use was 624-1,161 kWh per product tonne and preliminary cost THB 8,000-11,000/t including capital, feedstock and electricity, demonstrating both technical feasibility and economic tradeoffs.
Key findings
- HHV reached 22.4 MJ/kg, about 20% higher; grindability and moisture resistance improved; severity reduced mass and energy yield; electricity was 624-1,161 kWh/t; cost was THB 8,000-11,000/t.
Why this matters globally
The system may valorize rubberwood and corn residues, reduce open burning and supply coal co-firing fuel in tropical agricultural economies, but carbon benefits depend on electricity, logistics and land-use accounting.
Thai researcher contribution
Suneerat Fukuda, Jaggapan Sanduang and Supachita Krerkkaiwan of JGSEE and KMUTT developed the pilot system and directly tested Thai residues.
Limitations to consider
Preliminary cost may omit drying, storage, logistics, maintenance, emissions controls and financing. High electricity can erode net energy and GHG gains. HHV remains below many coals, and continuous reliability and real-boiler emissions are not reported.