Recent advances of research in coal and biomass co-firing for electricity and heat generation
Li Liu, Muhammad Zaki Memon, Yuanbo Xie, Shitie Gao, Youguang Guo, Jingliang Dong, Yuan Gao, Aimin Li, Guozhao Ji
Abstract
Coal-fired power generation resulted shortage of conventional fossil fuels and an increase in greenhouse gases emissions. The co-firing of coal and biomass waste in coal-fired boilers was a promising strategy to supplement the energy source and reduce greenhouse gases. However, the co-firing mechanism and potential problems were not well understood. Therefore, the differences between coal and biomass in properties such as proximate and ultimate composition, components in ash and the calorific value were firstly discussed. Next, compared with the combustion of coal alone, this review analyzed the discrepancies and corresponding issues of co-firing in combustion behaviors and products such as ash and gaseous pollutants. Finally, this review outlined how operational conditions could affect the co-firing performance.