The Biomasstep project presents a novel technology for analyzing biomass quality

The analytical methodology developed by Biomasstep is based on NIR technology and allows for the rapid and reliable prediction of biomass quality parameters, such as moisture and chlorine. The key innovation lies in the application of NIR spectroscopy to the characterization of quality parameters in native biomass species—those with the greatest use and potential in Andalusia and the Algarve.

The quality of biomass is a key aspect for its energy applications, as not all commercially available biomass has a quality certificate. The development of this technology and its transfer to companies in the sector will lead to better energy utilization of local natural resources, foster advanced manufacturing processes, and promote the consolidation of a transparent and secure biomass market, essential for the deployment of the bioeconomy in areas where unemployment has become chronic.

Within the framework of the Biomasstep project, an Interregional Biomass Platform is also being developed between Andalusia and Portugal, which will function as a cross-border network between companies in the sector, research centers, universities, public administrations and businesses.

The aim is to promote the implementation and transfer of the technology developed by the project, as well as the use of high-quality biomass. The Interregional Biomass Platform is available on the project website and includes a map of companies and a sector map, information on sector regulations in Spain and Portugal, news and reports, and a portal for funding opportunities currently under development.

budget
exceeding 600,000 eur and a duration of two and a half years, the Biomasstep project aims to achieve the development and transfer to bioenergy companies of an innovative NIR technology for the rapid and economical analysis of the quality of native biomass in the cross-border area.

Furthermore, the project aims to transfer the developed tool to enhance the innovative capacity of companies in the sector, so that the research results can be commercially exploited and generate added value.

Along with UCO and CTA, this project includes the Andalusian Energy Agency, Prodetur (Seville Provincial Council); the Association of Renewable Energy Companies (APPA Renovables), AREANATejo – Regional Energy and Environment Agency of Alentejo; AREAL – Regional Energy and Environment Agency of Algarve; LNEG – National Laboratory of Energy and Geology of Portugal and the University of Évora.