Valorization of Agro-industrial Açaí Residues as Biomass for Bioenergy: Study of Drying in a Fluidized Bed

 

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) is one of the most representative products of Brazilian biodiversity and has gained increasing prominence in the food market. Currently, the state of Minas Gerais ranks among the main exporters of processed açaí in the country. However, the processing of this fruit generates large amounts of residues, which, when improperly discarded, can cause significant environmental impacts.

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Recent studies have highlighted the potential of açaí residues as biomass for bioenergy generation. However, for these residues to be efficiently used in thermochemical conversion processes, a prior drying step is essential to improve energy efficiency and the quality of the processed material.

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In this context, this research project aimed to investigate the utilization of açaí agroindustrial residues through thermal processes using a fluidized bed dryer, seeking to preserve the appropriate characteristics of the dried material for use as energy biomass.

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The project activities initially involved the characterization of the raw material, followed by fluid-dynamic experiments to determine the minimum fluidization conditions, which are fundamental for establishing the operational conditions of the drying process. During the experiments, data on moisture content and the temperature of the solid and fluid phases were collected over time, allowing a detailed analysis of the system's behavior.

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Experimental data were analyzed using mathematical models based on momentum, heat, and mass transfer phenomena, as well as neural models used to predict information not directly obtained from the experiments. The results from modeling and simulation allowed the evaluation of the technical and economic feasibility of drying açaí residues, considering operational costs and the energy performance of the process.

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Thus, the study contributes to the development of technological and environmentally sustainable alternatives for the utilization of agroindustrial residues, as well as providing relevant information for the design, operation, and optimization of fluidized bed dryers.

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Status: Completed
Type: Research
Members: Hugo Perazzini (Coordinator); Robson Costa de Sousa; Ariany Binda Silva Costa; Maisa Tonon Bitti Perazzini; Renata de Aquino Brito Lima Corrêa; Raphael Felca Gloria.