Biomass downdraft reactors, coupled with reciprocating internal combustion engines (RICEs), are
a viable technology for small scale heat and power generation. This paper contains information gathered
from a review of published papers on the effects of the particle size and the moisture content of biomass
feedstock and the air/fuel equivalence ratio used in the gasification process with regard to the quality of
the producer gas. Additionally, data on the parameters of producer gas, such as its energy density, flame
speed, knock tendency, auto-ignition delay period and the typical spark ignition timing, are systematised.
Finally, information on the typical performance of various diesel and spark ignition RICEs
fuelled with producer gas is presented.