Deng, Tong ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4117-4317, Garg, Vivek ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8515-4759 and Bradley, Michael (2025) Review of material handling challenges in energy production from biomass and other solid waste materials. Energies, 18 (15):4194. ISSN 1996-1073 (Online) (doi:10.3390/en18154194)

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Abstract

Biomass and other solid wastes create potential environmental and health hazards in our modern society. Conversion of the wastes into energy presents a promising avenue for sustainable energy generation. However, feasibility of the approach is limited by the challenges in material handling because of the special properties of the materials. Despite their critical importance, the complexities of material handling often evade scrutiny until operational implementation. This paper highlights the challenges inherent in standard solid material handling processes, preceded by a concise review of common solid waste typologies and their physical properties, particularly those related to biomass and bio-wastes. It delves into the complexities of material flow, storage, compaction, agglomeration, separation, transport, and hazard management. Specialised characterisation techniques essential for informed process design are also discussed to mitigate operational risks. In conclusion, the paper emphasises the necessity of a tailored framework before the establishment of any further conversional processes. Given the heterogeneous nature of biomaterials, material handling equipment must demonstrate adaptability to accommodate the substantial variability in material properties in large-scale production. This approach aims to enhance feasibility and efficacy of any energy conversion initiatives by using bio-mass or other solid wastes, thereby advancing sustainable resource utilisation and environmental stewardship.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	This article belongs to the Special Issue The Sustainability of Energy Production from Biomass and Biofuel Technologies. - MP
Uncontrolled Keywords:	biomass and biowaste, energy production, handling challenges, material physical properties, characterisations, flow properties
Subjects:	Q Science > Q Science (General) T Technology > T Technology (General) T Technology > TD Environmental technology. Sanitary engineering
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group:	Faculty of Engineering & Science Faculty of Engineering & Science > School of Engineering (ENG) Faculty of Engineering & Science > Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology
Last Modified:	18 Aug 2025 11:31
URI:	https://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/50903

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