Modelling of enhanced dual fluidized bed steam gasification with integration of biomass-specific devolatilization

Dual fluidized bed (DFB) gasification is a promising technology for converting biomass into clean energy, but accurately modelling the devolatilization stage remains a challenge. This study addresses this gap by developing a comprehensive DFB model that integrates detailed devolatilization mechanisms to improve predictions of producer gas composition and yield. The biomass-specific devolatilization model was incorporated into the DFB gasification framework and validated against experimental data. For the initial biomass devolatilization, the model demonstrated higher accuracy than existing models, with deviations of less than 7 wt% for devolatilization product yields and RMSE values below 10 vol% for volatile composition. Additionally, the model achieved RMSE values of less than 2 vol% for producer gas composition and significantly reduced errors in tar yield predictions compared to other models. Model application revealed that increasing gasification temperature (750–950 °C) enhances devolatilization efficiency and promotes secondary reforming reactions, leading to higher H 2 production, reduced tar formation, and improved producer gas quality. The shift from CO dominance in early devolatilization to increased H 2 content at higher temperatures highlights the role of gas-phase reactions in optimizing syngas composition. By incorporating biomass properties and devolatilization temperature, the model ensures greater accuracy and adaptability in gasification simulations. These findings reinforce the critical role of accurate devolatilization modelling in achieving reliable process simulations and advancing more efficient and sustainable biomass gasification technologies. • Gasification model with detailed devolatilization mechanisms was developed. • Comparison of different biomass devolatilization models was performed. • Correlation of initial biomass devolatilization and gasification was investigated. • High gasification temperatures enhance devolatilization and promote gasification. • Findings emphasized the critical role of accurate devolatilization models in DFB simulation.