Effects of Torrefaction Using COMB Dryer/Pyrolizer on the Properties of Rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis) and Jabon (Anthocephalus cadamba) Pellets

Abstract

Rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis) and Jabon (Anthocephalus cadamba) are two promising species that is widely planted in industrial plantation and community forests in Indonesia. The objective of this study was to improve the properties of rubberwood and jabon pellets through torrefacation. Torrefaction was performed at a temperature of 300°C and a residence time of 3 min, using Counter-Flow Multi Baffle (COMB) Dryer/Pyrolizer. The properties of torrefied wood pellets as equilibrium moisture content (EMC), density, and heating value. Black pellets were succefully obtained after torrefaction using COMB Dryer/Pyrolizer. The EMC of the black pellets from rubberwood and jabon was 3.54% and 2.85%, which is remarkably lower that their initial EMC of 12.25% and 12.76%, for rubberwood and jabon pellets, respectively. The density of black pellets from rubberwood and jabon and decreased 16.18% and 13.44% compared to control. Torrefaction using COMB Dryer/Pyrolizer also increased high heating value of wood pellets to 18.32% and 79.70%, for rubberwood and jabon pellets, respectively. Consequently, torrefaction using the COMB Dryer/Pyrolizer could improve the bioenergetic properties of jabon and rubberwood pellets.