New metrological methods for biofuel materials analysis
Short Name: BIOFMET, Project Number: 19ENG09
Faster, more accurate, reproducible and traceable methods for measuring solid and liquid biofuel calorific value
Biomass is used to produce electricity, heat, or transportation biofuels, and is considered a renewable energy source if the organic material from which it is made is replaced. As such, it can qualify for incentives supporting EU renewable energy targets. Such incentives are calculated with reference to stated calorific values (energy content) as specified for each type of biofuel in EU Directive 2009/28/EC. However, these calculations were based on non-traceable measurement methods, so, as consumption grows, these built-in inaccuracies could result in increasing market distortions. Trade is also undermined by the existing slow energy content measurement methods, that are also susceptible to sampling error.
The project will support the introduction of faster, more accurate calculations of calorific value for solid and liquid biofuels. New measurement methods will be studied, and advanced traceable measurement standards developed. New methods will be devised for determining impurities and ash content, and moisture transfer standards and sampling methods will be devised, all to be evaluated by end-users. These outcomes will lead to opportunities for improved fuel quality control and comparability, that will support the transition to cleaner energy sources.