Retrospective for 2023-2024: progress in EXO and TCR technologies
In 2023, the innovative “EXO” biomass conversion plant was put into operation as part of the SynergyFuels project. This plant combines a pyrolysis process with a gasification step. So far, sewage sludge, screen overflow, wood and vine cuttings have been tested as feedstocks. Continuous optimization of the reactor design and the development of a self-sufficient control concept have increased the efficiency of the processes; in particular, extensive investigations have been carried out into the influence of the reformer temperature.
At the same time, progress was made in the TCR technology developed by Fraunhofer UMSICHT for bio-oil production; in particular, new heating options were successfully implemented. The processing, sorting and pre-treatment of input materials, in particular from biowaste recycling, was optimized. This opens up new insights into the assessment of existing biomass potential.
Outlook for the future of the project
Continuous operation of the EXO plant is planned for 2025. The plant parameters will be varied in order to further increase efficiency. Other biogenic residues will be tested and the production of larger quantities of bio-oil is planned.