Malaysia University Research Partnership — Gasification R&D
Multi-University Research Consortium, Malaysia
Project Overview
A formal research partnership with a consortium of Malaysian university researchers — including seven PhD-level scientists and professors — to optimise our biomass gasification process for tropical feedstocks, validate syngas quality parameters, and publish findings to establish industry technical benchmarks.
The Challenge
Tropical biomass feedstocks — particularly palm EFB and mixed plantation residues — have highly variable moisture content, fibre structure, and calorific value compared to the temperate biomass types on which most gasification literature is based. Process parameters need systematic optimisation for tropical conditions.
Our Solution
Our research partners designed a structured experimental programme testing gasification performance across 12 feedstock configurations, 3 gasifying agent compositions, and 4 moisture levels. Results were used to refine our nine-stage process design, optimise the syngas purification train, and establish quality acceptance criteria for island and plantation projects.
Results & Impact
- Optimal EFB moisture threshold confirmed: ≤15% for stable gasification
- Syngas LHV consistently ≥5.2 MJ/Nm³ at validated conditions
- Tar content: ≤28 mg/Nm³ (within generator-grade specification)
- Process validated for 6 tropical feedstock types
- Technical paper submitted to peer-reviewed journal
- Foundation for ISO-compliant process documentation