ABSTRACT

An introduction to biomass for energy for nonexperts is presented. The origin of biomass, its use as an energy carrier, and its position amidst other sources of energy is discussed. The role of biomass in the balance and recycle of carbon in the biosphere is elucidated and aspects of sustainability are shortly touched upon. The main emphasis of this chapter is on the introduction of biomass into modern energy conversion equipment and the conversion processes of biomass into improved solid, liquid, and gaseous fuels. The chapter is concluded with some discussions of the status and possible future developments of the role of biomass in interaction with other renewable energy sources and possible synergistic effects.

1.1.1 Power from the Sun Collected via Biomass and Historical UseLife, as we know it, on earth is mainly driven by high-quality energy received from our sun in the form of photons. In the central core