The specialized division “Bioenergy” focuses on the production, properties, logistics and market pertaining to solid biofuel and in particular to wood-based biofuels. This encompasses wood pellets, briquettes, lumber and wood chips for energy generation.  We partner with manufacturers and traders of biofuel, suppliers of manufacturing equipment pertaining to biofuel production from renewable resources and suppliers of additives and measurement instrumentation.

Research and development

Process optimisation and quality improvement in wood pellet production

At present projects are underway for the optimisation of pellet production which place an emphasis on energy efficiency and the application of alternative additives. Additional focus is placed on the influence of raw material properties and raw material preparation on the pelletizing process.

Evaluation of quality, logistics and acceptance criteria for solid biofuel

On a national level as well as in connection with international standardization, projects are being carried out which aim at facilitating the widespread use of solid biofuels while maintaining high quality standards. This involves methods for determination of product quality, sampling procedures and the receipt and acceptance of different types of biofuels.

Preparation and storage of chipped wood for energetic purposes

Production, drying and storage of chipped wood for energetic purposes are subjects of this work while quality, energy content and preservation of the dry matter are also considered. In cooperation with partners, innovative concepts are developed for the supply chain of chipped wood for energetic purposes.

International markets for wood pellets and mixed biomass pellets

On a European level the markets for wood pellets are investigated. Prices, production capacities and qualities are considered as are quantities which are being produced, traded and held in stock.

The specialized division „Bioenergy“ is accredited for testing of fuels. In particular the following test procedures are within the scope of accreditation (selected procedures, additional tests can be offered upon request):

Wood pellets and briquettes:

• ÖNORM M 7135: Pellets and briquettes from compressed wood or compressed bark, test of abrasion rate
• DINplus certification scheme for wood pellets for use in small furnaces
• DIN 51731 Compressed untreated wood
• DIN 51900 parts 1, 2 and 3: Determination of gross calorific value of solid fuels
• DIN 51719 Determination of ash content
• European Standards: CEN/TS 15210-1: (mechanical resistance) CEN/TS 14918 (gross caloric value)

Upon request special investigations pertaining to the content of starch, to VOC-emissions or to ash-forming elements can be carried out in cooperation with the specialized division “Analytical chemistry/determination of emissions”.

Chipped wood:

• ÖNORM M 7132 and ÖNORM 7133 Chipped wood for energetic purposes – gross caloric value, bulk density and size classification.
• European standards: CEN/TS 15149 particle size distribution. CEN/TS 15103 bulk density.

Other fuels:

Upon request, the gross caloric value and the chemical composition of non-wood fuels can also be determined.

Additional services

The specialized division „Bioenergy“ offers training courses to staff of heat plants and combined power and heat plants  regarding the sampling of particulate material transported in lorries.

Consulting and evaluation services are offered for the preparation of sampling guidelines and the setting-up of facilities and equipment used for the sampling of incoming wood supplies.

Expert’s reports are prepared upon request and cover the areas of fuel quality, logistics and sampling of material. Special topics can be investigated in cooperation with other specialized divisions.

The development of standards for solid biofuels is actively influenced in national and international standardisation projects. Holzforschung Austria also considers the interests of industry and commerce in the standardisation process.

Special facilities

• Laboratory-scale pelletizing equipment for the production of pellets under tightly controlled conditions. The equipment includes facilities for conditioning including thermal treatment by means of a microwave tunnel.
• Pellet (abrasion) tester according to CEN/TS 15210-1