Biomass storage: an update on industrial solutions for baled biomass feedstocks

Abstract

Storage of raw biomass feedstocks is a critical component in a viable biofuels supply chain. This article focuses on the current knowledge and existing challenges to establishing a sufficient biomass storage infrastructure to meet the long-term needs of the biofuels industry. Effects of storage on feedstock stability and biomass quality, with regards to dry-matter loss and self-heating characteristics of stored biomass, have been thoroughly discussed. Features, suitability and costs of different commercial-scale biomass storage infrastructures for open, tarped, permanent structure and anaerobic storage systems are discussed in detail. Additionally, discussions include supply-chain characteristics, including feedstock handling, bale density and quality, and identification and traceability of feedstock, which impact storage and transportation interaction.

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.