Title: Effect Of Torrefaction On The Energy Characteristics Of Milled Corn Stover For Bioenergy Applications
Authors: Olosunde A. A Prof. Ibrahim J. S. Ierve I. A.
Volume: 10
Issue: 6
Pages: 61-68
Publication Date: 2026/06/28
Abstract:
Agricultural residues represent an important renewable resource for sustainable bioenergy production, yet their direct utilization is often constrained by low energy density and unfavorable fuel properties. This study investigates the effect of torrefaction on the energy characteristics of milled corn stover (MCS) to improve its suitability for solid biofuel applications. Torrefaction was conducted within the temperature range of 200-300 °C under varying residence times and heating rates. The energy performance of raw and torrefied MCS was evaluated using Higher Heating Value (HHV), Lower Heating Value (LHV), and calorific value (CV) analyses. Results showed a progressive increase in HHV from 16.28 MJ/kg in raw MCS to 18.67 MJ/kg at 300 °C, while LHV increased from 16.05 MJ/kg to 17.87 MJ/kg. Statistical modeling revealed that reaction temperature was the most influential parameter affecting CV, with significant interaction effects among torrefaction variables. The optimized torrefaction conditions yielded densified MCS with enhanced energy density and reduced moisture content. These findings confirm that torrefaction is an effective pretreatment method for upgrading corn stover into a high-quality solid biofuel for bioenergy applications.