Application of OLTT in gasification power systems

A series of results obtained from a quasi-real-time analysis of tar concentration in small scale gasification systems is presented in this work. The instrument used to measure tar concentration is an online tar testing apparatus that was designed and built by the authors. Using the online tar testing apparatus enables phenomena to be observed that previously could not using standard methods. The influence of tar concentration due to four scenarios is presented using the online tar testing apparatus: dynamic behavior at different testing locations, impact as electrical output applied to the engine increases or decreases, impact of refueling events, and impact of different gasifier reactor architectures. Dynamic behavior of tar concentration was captured over all scenarios. Consistent results were obtained and results proved to be nonlinear and sometimes unpredictable.