ABSTRACT
The important physical properties include particle and bulk density, particle size, and particle size distribution. Other properties that are important in biomass handling and storage include angle of repose, friction, heat capacity, and heat conductivities. The major thermally related properties include proximate analysis, ultimate analysis, and heating values. One other important thermally related biomass property is the eutectic point or the fusion
temperature of ash in the biomass. This parameter is important in slagging and fouling problems in biomass thermal conversion. The US Department of Energy (USDOE) has also developed various laboratory analytical procedures for compositional analysis of biomass that includes lignin, carbohydrates, and extractives. These are important in the biological or biochemical conversion of biomass, particularly for ethanol production.
