The final quality of pellets varies depending on the raw material
properties and themanufacturing process [12]. The variables dependent
on the pelletization process can be controlled to optimize productionlyzed.
efficiency and improve the quality of the finished product [11] according
to the specific biomass studied.
Hence, the aim of this paper is to analyze the mechanical, physical
and chemical characteristics of three different types of residual biomass
from olive trees that were pelletized under different operating conditions:
initial moisture, diameter and compression length of the pellet
mill die, and temperature of the pelletization process. With this purpose,
the operational conditions have been optimized according to the
final properties of the pellets produced. In addition, the quality parameters
are discussed and compared with the EN 14961-2 [13] in order
to check if the pellet samples fulfill the guidelines established for nonindustrial
use, which are the most restrictive.