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Abstract
A proof of concept integrated torrefaction and granulation technology was investigated to granulate southern pine using a lab-scale pan granulation unit. Southern pine chips were torrefied at 250, 275 and 300 using a pilot scale torrefaction reactor. Torrefied materials were size reduced using a knife mill with 0.25 mm screen and were granulated with lignosulphonate and starch liquid binders. Granules produced from 300 torrefied material with both the binders had acceptable granule properties with minimal binder usage. Techno-economic and life cycle assessments of integrated torrefaction and granulation of southern pine concluded that granulation of torrefied pine at 300 had lower production cost and minimal environmental burdens compared to that of wood pellet production. Opportunities exist to further improve the proposed granulation technology prior to commercialization.