Comparative Analysis of Brazilian Residual Biomass for Pellet Production - Implementing Environmental and Resource Management - page 13

2.5 Conclusions
Although the resulting pellets presented technical and physical- chemical limita-
tions, improvement of both processing and physical properties is possible. For ex-
ample, the percentage of Eucalyptus sp. sawdust weight could be increased in the
pellet blends using an industrial scale machine. However, conversion of residues
into pellets as well possible utilisation methods are also dependent on the purpose
for using the mentioned goods. Sugar cane bagasse pellets combined with the ap-
plication of new technologies for its combustion in decentralized energy systems
could be one alternative. On the other hand, unprocessed bagasse could be effi-
ciently used in a combined system for heating and power generation. Considering
the increasing production of sugar cane, another option is the export of surplus
pellets. All the alternatives mentioned could be applied, supporting local econo-
mies by generating jobs and opening new markets. Nevertheless, it is up to the so-
ciety to accept the viable technologies, adapting them to the existing socio-
economic and environmental conditions. These are issues to be further investi-
gated in socio-economic feasibility studies.
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