Bioenergy Feedstock Characterization Laboratory
Idaho National Laboratory
Description
The Bioenergy Feedstock Characterization Laboratory at the Department of Energy’s Biomass Feedstock National User Facility (BFNUF) features advanced capabilities for sample preparation, characterization, analyzing storage performance, and predicting conversion performance.
Capability Bounds
Characterization capabilities include: biomass storage simulation, particle-size distribution and morphology, microscopy and imaging, particle characteristics, rheology,chemical compositional analysis, thermochemical feedstock properties, rapid-screening techniques, mechanical and strength testing.
Unique Aspects
The characterization lab researchers use standardized, repeatable laboratory techniques to characterize biomass. The lab also features advanced capabilities for sample preparation, characterization, analyzing storage performance and predicting conversion performance. Researchers specialize in scale up and integration of biomass processing facilities, so they understand connections between material properties, processing conditions and feedstock quality.
Availability
As a congressionally designated National User Facility, the BFNUF Characterization Laboratory is available to both the public and private sectors through the development of collaborative work scopes that utilize a variety of contractual mechanisms to meet the needs of the partners and funding agencies.
Benefit
With the characterization laboratory’s counterparts—the Process Development Unit and Bioenergy Feedstock Library—BFNUF provides the bioenergy industry with experts and data to minimize or eliminate feedstock problems before costly setbacks occur.
Capability Expert(s)
Kastli Schaller
Amber Hoover
