CFD simulation of biomass steam gasification in a fluidized bed based on a multi-composition multi-step kinetic model

In the present study, a novel kinetic model for biomass steam gasification process along with a detailed multi-composition multi-step pyrolysis scheme is developed, which can predict tar composition. In addition, based upon the two-fluid model and kinetic theory of granular flow, simulations were carried out. A comparison between the simulation results and experimental data was made. The results showed that the proposed model produced satisfactory results. The effects of gasification parameters on non-condensable gas composition, tar content, tar composition, and char yield were also studied. The study showed that the gasification temperature has an evident influence on simulation results, while the effect of steam to biomass ratio (SBR) on simulation results was not obvious.