Potencial capacidade energética do bagaço de malte para caldeiras de pequeno porte

Abstract

This work aims to study the energy capacity of malt bagasse originated from small breweries. Different moisture contents were evaluated and characterized to better estimate their energy purposes as a resource in boilers replacing fossil fuel or another biomass. The bagasse was collected at a local brewery at the city of Francisco Beltrão – PR. Physicochemical analyzes were carried out to determine the proximate composition. The malt bagasse samples were characterized according to their moisture and calorific value. Elementary and immediate analyzes were carried out in order to be able to make empirical calculations of the higher and lower calorific value. The immediate analysis showed high levels of volatile matter and low fixed carbon. The results for physical-chemical analyzes were within the parameters found in legislation, thus being able to be used both for animal feed and for human consumption. The values of superior and inferior calorific value were calculated by different empirical equations dependent on the immediate and elemental analyses, presenting values between 15.3 and 19.1 MJ kg-1 and 16.1 and 19.9 MJ kg-1, respectively. Still in relation to the calorific power, we can highlight that when compared to other biomasses, the brewing residue has a significant level of energy power. The study is based on small breweries where natural gas or diesel are generally used in boilers. The proposed new methodology aims to partially or completely replace the previously used raw material. Thus, being able to prove that the malt bagasse is viable as an energy source for boilers.