A biomass gasification plant is designed to convert wood chips into electricity.
The plant operates with the following parameters:
Feedstock: Wood chips with a moisture content of 20%
Gasifier Efficiency: 70%
Power Generation Efficiency: 30%
Electricity Output: 1 MW
a). Describe the biomass gasification process and its key steps, including drying, pyrolysis, gasification, and gas cleanup.
b). Provide mathematical equations representing the main reactions involved in biomass gasification, with an emphasis on the equilibrium reaction for syngas production.
c). Explain how energy is recovered from the syngas produced during biomass gasification and discuss the factors affecting energy efficiency in biomass conversion processes.
d). Present a case study analysis of the energy balance and efficiency of the biomass gasification plant.