We offer testing services for conversion technologies and feedstock, biocrude, and biochar characterization. Our testing capabilities are unique in comparison to most university labs because of our state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories, which include pilot-scale equipment. We also offer computational services. For specific processes, timelines, and costs, contact Deputy Director Ryan Smith (515-294-6244, rgsmith@iastate.edu).
Conversion Technology Testing
| Capability | Equipment / Method |
|---|
| Exploratory-scale AD for Biochemical Methane Potential (BMP) and Toxicity Analysis (ATA) | Batch 0.1 – 2 L AD systems |
| Exploratory-scale AD for Optimization of Feeding and Operational Conditions | Semi-continuous 0.5 – 2 L AD systems with daily feeding and gas/digestate analysis |
| Benchtop-scale AD for Enhanced Process Control and Parameter Optimization | Semi-continuous 30 L AD systems with daily feeding and pending on-line gas flow analysis |
| Lab-scale Conversion of Liquid or Slurry Feedstocks to Biocrude | Batch 500 mL solvent or hydrothermal liquefaction |
| Lab-scale Conversion of Solid Feedstocks to Biocrude and Biochar | Continuous 1 kg/h fluidized bed pyrolyzer |
| Pilot-scale Conversion of Solid Feedstocks to Biocrude and Biochar | Continuous 15 kg/h fluidized bed pyrolyzer |
Feedstock, Biocrude, and Biochar Characterization
| Capability | Equipment / Method |
|---|
| Biomass Sample Preparation | Retsch Knife Mill, Small Macerator "Shredder" Mill |
| Particle Size Distribution Analysis | Sieve Shaker Screens |
| Proximate Analysis for Moisture, Ash, Volatiles, and Fixed Carbon | Thermogravimetric Analyzer |
| Elemental Analysis | C, H, N, S Analyzer |
| Structural Carbohydrates and Lignin | NREL Method |
| Volatile Fatty Acids | Ion Chromatography |
| Trace Minerals & Metals | Content Inductively Coupled Plasma |
| Viscosity | Kinematic Viscometer |
| Biochar and Soil Amendment | Efficacy Greenhouse plant-growth studies |
| Biocrude Moisture Content | Karl Fischer |
| Heating Value | Bomb Calorimeter |
| Compound Identification and Quantification | GC-Mass Spec with FID |
| Acidity of Liquids | Total and Modified Acid Number |
Assessment & Computational Services
| Capability | Method / Model |
|---|
| Agroecosystem Processes and Outcomes | APSIM, COMET-FARM |
| Economic Impact Assessment | Input-Output Modeling (in partnership with ISU CARD) |
| Geospatial Data Acquisition and Analysis | Python, Sentinel, Landsat, ArcGIS, QGIS |
| Land Use Modeling | CARD Land Use Model, SWAT (in partnership with ISU CARD) |
| Land Valuation | Surveys (in partnership with ISU CARD) |
| Life Cycle Assessment | Argonne GREET, BioSTEAM |
| Willingness-to-Accept/Willingness-to-Pay Assessment | Surveys (in partnership with ISU CARD) |
