biopellet

Biopellets are dense solid fuels produced by compressing biomass, typically wood processing residues, agricultural byproducts, or energy crops. They are usually cylindrical, 6–8 mm in diameter, and packaged for transport and storage. Biopellets are used to replace or supplement fossil fuels in heating systems and some electricity generation.

Production involves drying and grinding the feedstock to low moisture, conditioning, and extrusion through a pellet mill. The resulting pellets are cooled, screened, and packaged. Typical moisture targets are around 8–12%, with ash content varying by feedstock.

Quality is governed by standards such as ENplus and DINplus in Europe and the Pellet Fuel Institute standards in the United States, defining moisture, ash, durability, and labeling. Energy content generally ranges from 16 to 20 MJ/kg, and bulk density is around 1,000–1,200 kg/m3.

Common applications include residential stoves and commercial boilers, industrial furnaces, and cofiring with coal in power plants. Advantages over loose biomass include higher energy density, easier handling, lower storage volume, and more consistent combustion; however, quality feedstock and proper combustion are important to manage emissions.

Environmental aspects depend on feedstock sustainability. When biomass is harvested responsibly or sourced as waste, biopellets can reduce net greenhouse gas emissions compared with fossil fuels. Standards and certification help ensure sustainability and performance, while storage and dust management are important for safety.