Use of Hazelnut Shells in Biomass Energy Production Facilities

The continuous increase in energy demand and the increasing environmental impacts of fossil fuels have increased the importance of renewable energy sources. In this context, biomass energy stands out as a sustainable alternative. Biomass energy is the energy obtained by burning organic materials or by passing them through other biochemical processes. One of the most important advantages of this energy source is the evaluation of waste materials and the reduction of environmental burden. Hazelnut shells are an important organic waste material that can be used in biomass energy production.

Properties of Hazelnut Shells

Hazelnut shells are a material that occurs as a by-product of hazelnut production and is often considered as waste. However, hazelnut shells are extremely suitable for use in biomass energy production with their high energy content and biodegradability. Some advantages of hazelnut shells over other biomass sources are as follows:

High Calorific Value: Hazelnut shells can be used as an efficient fuel in energy production due to their high calorific value. They provide approximately 18-20 MJ/kg of energy.
Low Moisture Content: Hazelnut shells stand out with their low moisture content. This increases combustion efficiency and makes the energy conversion process more efficient.

High Carbon Content: The high carbon content of hazelnut shells allows them to be used as an effective fuel in biomass energy production.
Biomass Energy Production Process

The use of hazelnut shells in biomass energy production takes place in several steps. These steps are as follows:

Collection and Storage

The shells obtained during hazelnut production should be collected and stored appropriately. Keeping the moisture content low during storage is important for energy efficiency.

Pre-Processing

The collected hazelnut shells undergo various pre-processing processes before entering the energy production process. These processes include steps such as drying, grinding and size reduction. These processes are carried out in order to increase combustion efficiency and optimize the energy production process.

Energy Production

Energy production from hazelnut shells can be carried out by several different methods. These methods include direct combustion, pyrolysis and gasification.

Direct Burning: The heat energy obtained by directly burning hazelnut shells can be converted into electrical energy through steam turbines or other energy conversion systems.

Pyrolysis: Pyrolysis is a process carried out by heating hazelnut shells at high temperatures in an oxygen-free environment. As a result of this process, products such as biofuels, biogas and biochar are obtained.
Gasification: Gasification is carried out by converting hazelnut shells into gas at high temperatures in an oxygen-limited environment. The gas obtained can be used in energy production.
Environmental and Economic Advantages

The use of hazelnut shells in biomass energy production has many advantages both environmentally and economically.

Environmental Advantages

The use of hazelnut shells in energy production offers a great opportunity in terms of environmental sustainability. Unlike fossil fuels, biomass energy is a renewable resource and is considered carbon neutral. In other words, the carbon released into the atmosphere as a result of the combustion of biomass fuels can be recovered by the photosynthesis process of plants. In addition, the use of waste materials such as hazelnut shells in energy production reduces waste management problems and contributes to the protection of natural resources.

Economic Advantages

The use of hazelnut shells in biomass energy production offers many economic advantages for hazelnut producers and the energy sector. The evaluation of hazelnut shells provides producers with an additional source of income and reduces waste management costs. In addition, the use of local biomass resources increases energy security by reducing energy imports and contributes to the local economy.

The use of hazelnut shells in biomass energy production facilities has significant potential among renewable energy sources. With its features such as high energy content, low moisture and carbon content, hazelnut shells stand out as an efficient biomass fuel. Offering environmental sustainability and economic advantages, this application contributes to both meeting energy needs and solving waste management problems. Therefore, the more widespread use of hazelnut shells in biomass energy production should be encouraged.