Jordan Klinger

Enhancing Biomass Flowability for Entrained Flow Gasification: The Role of Densification, Torrefaction, and Blended Waste Processing

Dr. Jordan Klinger, Researcher, Idaho National Laboratory - BEA

Gasification is a promising method for converting biomass into high-value products such as biofuels and hydrogen, addressing future energy demands while minimizing environmental impact. This study investigates the effectiveness of combined mechanical and thermal preprocessing techniques, specifically densification, torrefaction, and blended waste processing, in modifying the physicochemical properties of biomass to enhance its suitability for gasification systems.    Mechanical techniques, including densification and pulverization, alongside thermal techniques such as torrefaction and steam explosion, were examined. This talk overviews pilot-scale preprocessing on biomass, treated biomasses, and blended municipal solid waste (MSW) and biomass as feedstocks for gasification. Feedstock quality, variability, and variability improvements as a result of preprocessing to benefit gasification is also approached using advanced infrared (IR) sensor technology and traditional laboratory methods. These findings contribute to methods of including wastes into waste-to-energy pathways, and practical implications for gasification technology.

Dr. Jordan L. Klinger is a Senior Research Engineer at Idaho National Laboratory with extensive experience in biomass and waste preprocessing, thermochemical conversion, and granular mechanics. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and an M.S. and B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Michigan Technological University. Dr. Klinger leads a diverse portfolio of R&D projects focused on the relationships between biomass attributes and preprocessing, conversion performance, and granular flow behavior. He has designed and developed novel testing devices to accurately probe biomass and waste properties and has mentored numerous staff scientists, engineers, post-doctoral appointees, and interns. Dr. Klinger has a robust and rapidly growing publication record with over 100 publications in relevant fields. He has been involved in significant research grants and collaborations, including projects on advanced feedstock preprocessing systems for bioenergy and biopower, feedstock processing systems for gasification systems for converting waste biomass and municipal solid waste into syngas and hydrogen, and waste separations and co-product formulation. His work has earned him multiple nominations and awards, including the INL Vision Award. Additionally, he has served as an adjunct assistant professor at Michigan Tech University, contributing to research and mentoring in the field of waste-to-energy and biomass conversion.