Biomass energy conversion starts with the selection and analysis of the fuel. The type of fuel can have a decisive impact on the long-term success of a biomass energy plant, financially as much as from an operational point of view.

In the absence of codes classifying biomass, the term is used in a broad sense and can include many possible sources, some of them less suitable or only suitable for specialized handling and combustion equipment.

A single rock or stringy bark can jam an auger. Tiny amounts of chemicals, such as potassium can lead to a reduced ash fusion temperature and subsequent fouling and clinker. Chlorine settling on wood chips while transported by sea will result in corrosion of boiler tubes and unacceptable levels of dioxins.


A fuel analyses is a first step to identifying the properties and possible impacts of the fuel on a biomass energy system.