Do you know what sticks raw material together as pellets? Well, binders are what enhance the process of Pelletization. They are one of the key role players in creating high-quality end products. Many manufacturers use natural binders, while others use artificial sources.
In this article, we will find out about the role of these pellet binders in the production of fuel.
What are Binders used in Pellet Production?
Binders are like these things that you put in pellets to make them stick together better and not fall apart. They also make the pellets stronger so they don’t break easily. They help the biomass particles stick together, making the pellets strong and tight.
Like, different types of binders are used to make stuff stick together. Some examples are lignin, starch, gelatin, vegetable oils, and synthetic polymers. Each one helps to make the final pellet strong and hold its shape.
Common Binders in Biomass Pellet Production
Manufacturers use many additives in biomass pellet making. Organic binders and artificial binders are some of these additives that help in biomass densification.
You can choose any binder depending on your needs. The choice depends on factors like the type of biomass feedstock, desired pellet characteristics, and environmental considerations. Here are some common binders used in biomass pellet production:
1. Lignin
Lignin is a natural compound with binding properties. It is a natural polymer found in plant cell walls. Most biomass raw materials naturally have lignin in them. If not, you can add extra lignin or any modified lignin. It will improve the binding properties.
2. Starch
Starch is a common carbohydrate. It is derived from corn, wheat, or potatoes. Starch has special adhesive properties. They help in binding biomass raw material together. Once they are bounded well, they can go towards the production of pellets. Starch is one of the naturally found renewable binders.
3. Gelatin
Have you heard of gelatin? It is a compound derived from animal collagen. You can use it as a binder for the production of biomass pellets. They have great binding properties and are water-soluble. This makes them one of the best and most effective choices for certain applications.
4. Vegetable Oils
All of us use vegetable oils. But do you know that vegetable oils, such as soybean oil or canola oil, can be used as binders in pellet production? They offer lubrication during the Pelletization process. They play an important role in maintaining the structure of pellets.
5. Molasses
Molasses are a byproduct of sugar production. They are a sticky and viscous substance that serves as an effective binder. You can use it in combination with other binders to improve pellet quality.
6. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
PEG is a synthetic polymer. You can use it as a binder in biomass pellet production. It improves the binding properties. It’s easy to adjust according to different Pelletization needs.
7. Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)
PVA is a water-soluble synthetic polymer that acts as a binder in pellet production. It dissolves easily, providing good binding and forming a thin film around the biomass particles.
8. Bentonite
Bentonite, a type of clay, can be used as a binder to improve the cohesiveness of biomass particles. It is particularly effective in binding fine particles.
9. Corn-based Binders
Binders derived from corn, such as cornstarch or corn syrup, are common in biomass pellet production. They are renewable and readily available.
10. Urea-formaldehyde Resin
In some cases, urea-formaldehyde resin may be used as a binder. However, they are often avoided because of the damage they cause to the environment and formaldehyde. This limit its use in certain applications.
It is important to buy binders based on their compatibility with the specific biomass feedstock and the specific application of the pellets. Make sure you keep in mind the effects of these binders on the environment.
Role of Binders in Optimal Biomass Pellet Production
Binders are very important for making the best biofuel pellets. These are things that are added during the pelletizing process to make the biomass pieces stick together better and last longer.
This makes sure that high-quality pellets are made. Take a better look at what binders do in the process of making biomass pellets:
1- Enhancing Cohesion
Binders promote adhesion among biomass particles. They help them by sticking together during the Pelletization process. This cohesion is necessary for the formation of well-structured and compact pellets.
2- Improving Durability
The addition of binders enhances the durability of biomass pellets. This is especially important during transportation and storage. It prevents pellets from breaking apart and maintains their shape.
3- Overcoming Particle Size Variability
Biomass feedstocks often have varying particle sizes. Binders help overcome this variability by binding smaller and larger particles together. This guarantees a consistent pellet size and quality.
4- Minimizing Dust and Fines:
Binders contribute to the reduction of dust and fines during pellet production. This not only improves the handling and storage of pellets but also enhances combustion efficiency in biomass-based energy systems.
5- Increasing Energy Density
Pellets with well-incorporated binders have higher energy density. This is beneficial for both transportation and combustion. This is because denser pellets contain more energy per unit volume.
6- Facilitating Pellet Formation
Binders act as a facilitator in the Pelletization process, ensuring that the biomass material forms into pellets effectively. This is particularly important when working with challenging feedstocks that may not naturally bind together.
7- Customizing Pellet Characteristics
Different binders can be used to achieve specific pellet characteristics. Whether the goal is to create water-resistant pellets or pellets with specific combustion properties, the choice of binders allows for customization.
8- Sustainability Considerations
Sustainable binders, derived from renewable resources, contribute to the overall eco-friendliness of biomass pellet production. This aligns with the broader goal of using biomass as a renewable energy source.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed why binders are important, how and why they are used, and their types. They are an important part of the chemical composition of densified biomass. If you want to know more about these binders and you are interested in buying them for your business, you can contact us right now.