We begin the process by cutting the biomass from large bales into small pieces.  Then we condition it using a proprietary method, which makes it easier to process..

Next comes the patented hydrothermal pre-treatment.  During pre-treatment, the biomass is continuously mixed with water and heated to around 180-200ºC for 5-15 minutes in order to destroy the protecting lignin structure and make the cellulose available for enzymes. Another important function of the pre-treatment is to separate the alkali content and a portion of the inhibitors formed through partial degradation of the hemicellulose.
 
Thermal pretreatment pilot plant.

The process operates at high (30% - 40%) dry matter content, minimizing the consumption of water and energy.

The straw is fed into the pressure reactor with the Inbicon proprietary particle pumps.

 
The picture above illustrates the raw wheat straw, and the pretreated wheat straw (after hydrothermal treatment).