In the process of hydrothermal carbonization (HTC), various types of biomass are carbonized under heat and pressure within a relatively short time. The process opens up new perspectives in the efficient and environmentally friendly use of resources. These include CO2-neutral coal as an energy source, new approaches for the treatment of problematic biomass and the prospect to sustainably improve damaged soils with HTC coal. The applied research of the Soil Ecology Research Group in the field of HTC concentrates on research projects and student work concerning the utilisation of humid biomass for sustainable use.

Research area

• Hydrothermal carbonisation of sewage sludge (FOEN project).
• Optimised treatment of process water from the hydrothermal carbonisation of sewage sludge.
• Hydrothermal carbonisation and recycling of various waste biomass such as neophytes and whey.

Competences

• Feasibility studies, comparison of Technologies
• Implementation of pilot Projects
• Production of coal for external Projects
• Investigation of the drainability, constituents and properties of carbonised biomass as a coal product