Biocoal research to begin in Canada

In Canada the Centre Technologique des Résidus Industriels and FPInnovations will jointly research the potential production of biocoal from forest residues.

It is a three year project funded to the tune of CN$1.8 million (€1.3 million) by five relevant companies.

‘The competitiveness of the forestry industry depends on its ability to explore new markets and develop new products,’ Jean Hamel, VP of bioproducts at FPInnovations was quoted as saying.

‘This research project is providing us with an opportunity to help diversify the range of products offered by the forestry industry, by replacing bituminous coal in higher added value applications, such as in the fields of water and gas treatment, metallurgy as well as in soil remediation.’

The funding is set to come from Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), Resolute Forest Products, Natural Resources Canada, CRIBIQ (a Québec consortium for research and innovations in industrial bioprocesses) and Airex Energy.