The thermochemical conversion of biomass through pyrolysis offers significant potential for reducing CO₂ emissions. In addition to synthesis gas, the process produces high-quality carbon products such as biochar. During the process, biomass is heated in the absence of oxygen, stabilizing the carbon it contains and permanently removing it from the atmosphere. Biochar is primarily used in agriculture, where it improves humus content and, consequently, soil fertility. Furthermore, it can replace fossil coke, for example in climate-friendly steel production, thereby significantly reducing emissions in this industrial sector.
Two large-scale pyrolysis plants have already been realized in Denmark and serve as models for industrial implementation. The first plant has a pyrolysis gas output of up to 2 MW, corresponding to a total energy yield of approximately 4 MW. The second, larger plant achieves a pyrolysis gas output of 10 MW and provides a total output of about 20 MW. Agricultural residues, particularly straw, are mainly used as feedstock - an approach that supports both the energetic utilization of agricultural waste and sustainable energy production.
SAACKE has equipped both plants with specially adapted combustion systems that enable low-emission combustion of the generated pyrolysis gas. Through a multi-stage combustion process, stable flame formation is achieved while ensuring low NOx levels and high burnout efficiency. This technical design not only improves the environmental performance but also increases the overall system efficiency.
The heat generated during pyrolysis is used both to maintain the reactor process and to supply district heating to nearby industrial facilities. This concept of efficient heat recovery maximizes energy utilization and supports local companies in reducing their emissions.
Further plants with similar capacities (approx. 20 MW) are currently under construction. They are expected to make a significant contribution to climate protection by promoting renewable energy sources and simultaneously decarbonising industrial processes, in this case producing green steel. Against this background, biomass pyrolysis is gaining increasing importance as a key technology for a sustainable and low-emission future.
