Epsilon Open Archive

A factory experiment was performed at Bioenergi i Luleå, where two cation based starch additives (Solbind 35 and Solbind 790), one calcium based lignosulphonate additive (Lignobond) and one calcium/magnesium based lignosulphonate additive (Pelltech) were added to pine sawdust. One experimental design for each additive with two quantitative factors on three levels were used. The designs comprised the following parameters: Sawdust with three different moisture contents between 10-12 % based on raw weight; addition of additives at three levels between 0-1 %. The statistical analysis based on multiple linear regression (MLR) showed that the moisture content was the most important parameter for bulk density and press current, while the amount of additive was most important for mechanical durability and fines. For Lignobond and Solbind 790 the addition of additive gave rise to a decrease in press current during the pelletizing, while the press current was unchanged for Solbind 35 and increased for Pelltech. All additives gave rise to an improved pellet quality, mostly by increased mechanical durability and decreased amount of fines.