First generation bioenergy technology can be integrated into existing oil & gas processing facilities fairly seamlessly and includes biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel that can be used with conventional internal-combustion engines.
PAMI is currently conducting
projects in:
- Biofuel technology: processing , cleanup, and use (with a focus on biodiesel)
- Long-term internal combustion engine impact studies
- New feedstock feasibility and evaluation studies
Studies to Determine Biomass Yield
- PAMI undertook studies of several potential biomass crops to determine their yield potential, including:
- Miscanthus
- Millet
- Sorghum
- Switch grass
- Bluestem grass.
- PAMI operated demonstration plots at three sites in northeast Saskatchewan.
- Studies were challenged by poor weather during the growing season and major weed competition.
- Biomass yields ranged from 2.2 to 9.2 dry-matter tonnes/hectare.
- A 2008 study (Keyowski & Fulton) estimated an efficient cellulosic ethanol operation would require a supply of 5,000 to 10,000 metric tonnes of biomass per day. Assuming an average biomass production of 10 tonnes per acre can be achieved, a land base of approximately 100,000 acres is needed to supply the feedstock for a single plant.
For details on current projects please email pami@pami.ca.
