Recent advances in thermodynamic analysis of biomass gasification: a review on numerical modelling and simulation

Due to environmental and economic advantages, the production and utilization of renewable and eco-friendly fuels derived from residues have received attention globally. Gasification, a thermo-chemical waste valorisation method, is considered a flexible recycling method in terms of the employed feedstock, gasifier type, and the applications of the producer gas. Numerous operational parameters predominantly define the producer gas quality in conjunction with feedstock traits. As the defining parameters in a gasification process are interdependent and likely affect the process in a complex way, it is seemingly irrational to individually study the impacts of each variable and find an optimized operational condition experimentally. In this context, implementing mathematical and computer-based models is a pertinent strategy for accelerating research and developments in this field. Among all conceivable modelling approaches, thermodynamic equilibrium modelling is the most prevalent one, frequently adopted in various biomass gasification-related studies, but due to the consideration of several simplifying assumptions, particularly the equilibrium state condition, the reported deviations between experimental and modelling results are considerable. Various modification methods, such as restricted chemical equilibrium modelling, tar and char inclusion, use of modifying coefficients, and addition of heat dissipation factor, are proposed in thermodynamic modelling-based studies to enhance the modelling accuracy. Consequently, this paper aims chiefly to review all aspects of thermodynamic modelling and simulation, whether using stochiometric, non-stochiometric, or Aspen Plus modelling approaches, and to highlight the effectiveness of different modifications methods by considering the findings of studies conducted over the last decade to update the current knowledge concerning biomass gasification.