Wood Energy
Articles tagged with Wood Energy
The paper industry can become more energy-efficient with a new measurement method
Researchers have developed a calculation method enabling fair comparisons of energy consumption between pulp and paper companies, with potential to reduce fossil fuel usage and release raw materials. The new methodology could contribute to increased efficiency and a changed approach to energy audits.
Indoor wood burners linked to a decline in lung function
Research presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress found a link between indoor wood burning and decline in lung function. The study used data from the English Longitudinal Study of Aging and found that people using solid fuel stoves had lower FEV₁ values, indicating increased risk of respiratory complications.
Poplar tree discovery could help shape the future of energy and biomaterials
A University of Missouri-led study has uncovered how poplar trees can naturally adjust a key part of their wood chemistry based on changes in their environment, supporting improved bioenergy production. The discovery sheds light on the role of lignin and its potential to create better biofuels and sustainable products.
Bioenergy-CCS combo could erase 780 Gt CO₂ and salvage young coal plants, review finds
A new study finds that retrofitting young coal plants to co-fire biomass and capture up to 99% of resulting CO2 could eliminate 1.6 billion tonnes of emissions annually by 2040. Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) could deliver between 30 and 780 gigatonnes of cumulative CO2 removal this century.
Difficult and costly energy transition unless the EU invests in biomass
Biomass is crucial for Europe's ability to reach its climate targets, providing both energy and negative emissions. Excluding biomass from the European energy system would increase costs by 169 billion Euros per year.
Burning plastic for cooking and heating an emerging crisis, study finds
Researchers found urban sprawl and poor waste management led to an abundance of plastic waste. Burning plastic releases harmful chemicals, posing health risks to women and children. The issue affects millions in cities struggling with basic services.
Making the most of Switzerland's wood
Researchers from Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) conducted a comprehensive material flow analysis of wood in Switzerland to shed light on its availability and usage. The study found that recycling rate for wood is around 8% compared to 70% for paper, highlighting the need for sustainable use.
Rice researchers develop 3D-printed wood from its own natural components
Researchers at Rice University have developed an additive-free, water-based ink made of lignin and cellulose for producing architecturally intricate wood structures via direct ink writing. The new method exclusively uses nanoscale wood components for 3D printing, marking a significant advancement in the field.
Wood modification boosts biomass conversion
Scientists have engineered trees to be easier to disassemble into simpler building blocks using callose-enriched wood. This approach increases the efficiency of converting woody plant biomass to fuel and other useful products.
Six research centers will lead innovation towards a fully sustainable energy sector
The UK Research and Innovation has awarded £53 million in funding to six research centers to boost knowledge, create innovative green technologies, and reduce energy demand. The focus is on developing game-changing ideas to improve domestic, industrial, and transport energy systems.
Coconuts and lemons enable a thermal wood for indoor heating and cooling
Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developed a thermal wood composite using coconuts and lemons that can store both heat and cold. The material, which is transparent and energy-saving, can regulate temperatures around 24C, reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling.
Rolling in benefits: New method for effective compression of plant biomass for alternate fuel and anti-viral applications
Researchers from Okayama University developed a novel mechanical compression method to squeeze maximum benefits from plant biomass. The technique reduces energy consumption by eliminating the need for thermal drying, making it ideal for on-site operation and locally grown plants.
WVU researchers look to low-tech organic materials for high-tech clean hydrogen fuel production
Researchers at West Virginia University are exploring a new approach to produce clean hydrogen fuel using low-tech organic materials. They aim to create efficient and economically viable gasification systems that can transform biomass into ultrapure hydrogen, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Olive trees were first domesticated 7,000 years ago
Researchers from Tel Aviv University and the Hebrew University discovered charcoal remnants from olive trees at the Chalcolithic site of Tel Zaf, indicating intentional cultivation around 7,000 years ago. This marks the earliest evidence of domestication of a fruit tree worldwide.
Getting hydrogen out of banana peels
Scientists at EPFL have developed a novel method to convert banana peels into valuable hydrogen and solid-carbon biochar through flash pyrolysis using a Xenon lamp. This innovative technique generates around 100 liters of hydrogen per kg of dried biomass, making it a promising renewable energy solution.
WVU research promotes healthier poultry and environment
Researchers at West Virginia University have developed a wood boiler system that improves bird health and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by drying litter and creating dry heat. The system has the potential to replace propane heating systems in poultry farms, benefiting both animal welfare and the environment.
When walked on, these wooden floors harvest enough energy to turn on a lightbulb
A Swiss research team created a nanogenerator made from functionalized wood, generating 80 times more electricity than natural wood. The device can power household LED lamps and small electronic devices, demonstrating a potential sustainable energy source for smart buildings.
Engineer aids NYS solar goals, helps energy and agriculture coexist
A Cornell University professor has been awarded a grant to study the coexistence of agriculture and energy development in New York State. The project aims to determine efficient solar farm array configurations to avoid land-use conflicts and spoil precious agricultural space.
Passive radiative cooling in delignified wood material
A newly engineered wood-based material successfully reflects heat and cools buildings by deflecting incoming solar radiation. The material, which is more than eight times stronger than natural wood, can reduce energy costs by between 20% and 50% in 16 U.S. cities.
Wood pellets: Renewable, but not carbon neutral
The use of wood pellets for clean energy is limited by the loss of carbon sequestration in forests and the impact on biodiversity. The process also requires fossil fuels during manufacturing and overseas shipping, negating any potential carbon neutrality.
Cellulosic biofuels can benefit the environment if managed correctly
Researchers at Michigan State University found that cellulosic biofuels can provide a climate benefit, but only if certain conditions are met, including using native perennial species on marginal lands and minimizing nitrogen fertilizer use.
Fossil fuels could be phased out worldwide in a decade, says new study
A new study published by the University of Sussex suggests that the world could transition away from fossil fuels in just a decade. Professor Benjamin Sovacool's analysis of past energy transitions highlights the potential for accelerated change driven by technological innovation, policy intervention, and shifting consumer behavior.
Sustainable use of energy wood resources shows potential in North-West Russia
The study analyzed the potential of energy wood resources in the Leningrad region of Russia, finding significant potential for intensification. Maximization of sustainable energy wood supply could create new jobs and business opportunities, but challenges like low productivity and technical accessibility need to be solved.
Standing trees better than burning ones for carbon neutrality
A new study finds that preserving forests can curb climate change more effectively than harvesting wood as fuel. The research suggests that managing forests for maximal carbon storage can yield significant, predictable benefits within the coming century.
Energy poverty creating a respiratory disease 'epidemic' for almost half the world's population
Nearly half the world's population suffers from severe respiratory diseases due to limited access to clean energy sources. Researchers at University of British Columbia are working to develop viable markets for cleaner cookstoves and modern fuels.
Book details viability of wood to energy market in southern wildland-urban interface areas
The USDA Forest Service and University of Florida have published a new book detailing the viability of using wood as an energy source in southern wildland-urban interface areas. The book provides recent research on woody biomass production, conversion to energy, and economic analysis of bioenergy development.
Biofuel from inedible plant material easier to produce following enzyme discovery
Scientists have identified two plant enzymes that make it easier to extract sugars from wood, straw, and other non-edible parts of plants. This breakthrough can lead to more efficient and sustainable production of biofuels with lower impact on the food chain.
Improved process of drying lumber may save millions
A new artificial intelligence-based drying process for wood products could significantly reduce energy costs and improve product quality. The proposed method analyzes the kiln environment to predict optimal conditions and minimize deviations, potentially saving the $250 billion US wood industry millions of dollars.
Sustainable gas from 'roasted' wood is a feasible option
A thermodynamic approach was used to investigate biomass gasification, resulting in a more efficient process. The study found that roasted biomass is more suitable for gasification than untreated biomass, with improved properties for efficiency.
Study endorses wood as 'green' building material
A recent study published by Oregon State University found that wood framing used 17% less energy than steel construction and 26-31% less global warming potential. The research also suggested ways to redesign houses to lower fossil fuel use, reduce material waste, and recycle demolition wastes.