Municipality/ Umeå
BTC – Test Environment for Bio-based Processing and Process Technology
At the Biomass Technology Centre (BTC) in Umeå, companies and researchers can test and optimise processes such as fractionation, drying, size reduction and densification on an industrial scale.
We have 20 years of practical experience with various technologies throughout the upgrading chain, where biomass or by-products are converted into industrial bio-based raw materials.
BTC offers advanced equipment and expertise for projects in bio-based processing – from initial ideas to pilot studies.
BTC is a pilot facility at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), bridging the gap between research and industry. The test environment provides opportunities to develop, verify and scale up processes for the treatment of bio-based raw materials and by-products. Access to both laboratory equipment and pilot facilities means that ideas can quickly be put into practice and tested.
The Entire Process Chain
Companies working with biomass, biofuels, recycling processes or material development can carry out the entire process chain here – from raw material analysis to the production of finished pellets, briquettes or other bio-based products. BTC has extensive experience in process technology and provides support for both the development and optimisation of industrial processes.
The test facility is equipped for the mechanical and thermal treatment of biomass and can handle quantities ranging from grams to several tonnes. This makes it possible to conduct both small-scale tests and larger pilot trials prior to commercialisation. Advanced instrumentation, including a neutron spectrometer that is unique in the field of biofuels, enables detailed characterisation of material composition – an important resource in the development of new bio-based products.
Industrial-scale Testing
BTC is operated by an experienced team with extensive expertise in process technology and chemistry, giving companies access to both advice and practical support during the testing phase. Close collaboration between researchers and users allows each project to be tailored to specific needs and developed efficiently.
By providing access to research infrastructure, specialist expertise and industrial-scale testing, BTC contributes to the development of bio-based materials, more efficient use of resources and innovation for the green transition.
Testing at the Biomass Technology Centre Includes:
- Fractionation and sorting
Fractionation of bio-based raw materials and waste based on particle size or density, from small quantities to several tonnes. Unique assortments can be produced based on factors such as species, tissue or raw material fraction. - Pelletising and briquetting
Pelletising and briquetting of bio-based raw materials and waste in quantities ranging from grams to tonnes, for testing and optimisation prior to further use or scale-up. - Sampling and characterisation
Representative sampling and sample preparation of heterogeneous materials in accordance with established standards. Characterisation includes parameters such as ash and moisture content. - Size reduction
Size reduction of bio-based raw materials and waste into chips, chopped material or powder, in quantities ranging from kilograms to tonnes. - Drying
Drying of bio-based raw materials and waste using a range of techniques adapted to the material and quantity. - Thermal treatment
Thermal treatment through slow pyrolysis and hydrothermal carbonisation (HTC) on a smaller scale for material development and process evaluation.
Facts
Location: Verkstadsgatan 22, Röbäcksdalen, Umeå
Operator: SLU – Department of Forest Biomaterials and Technology
Type of test environment: Processing and mechanical and thermal treatment of biomass
Equipment and processes: Drying, size reduction, fractionation, pelletising, briquetting, thermal treatment and neutron spectrometry
Capacity: From grams to several tonnes of material
Target group: Companies in the bioeconomy, energy, forest industry and recycling sectors
Contact:
Magnus Rudolfsson, Researcher
+46 90 786 81 78
magnus.rudolfsson@slu.se