Simulation of Hydrogen Production in Biomass Gasifier by ASPEN PLUS

Hydrogen production derived from biomass gasification is proved to a competitive method to obtain environmental friendly fuel. This paper presents a model of biomass gasification in ASPEN PLUS process simulator and a detailed methodology of hydrogen production in gasifier was set up. In the period of biomass gasification, the effect on gasification efficiency of different parameters, including gasification temperature, pressure, and ratio of steam to biomass (S/B), were investigated. The results indicated among products of sawdust gasification in steam atmosphere (such as H₂, CO, CO₂, N₂ and CH₄), hydrogen accounts for up to 60%(volume fraction) in combustible content. Higher flow rate of steam is favorable for hydrogen yield. Increasing temperature above 700°C and higher pressure both has an adverse effect on hydrogen yield.