Assessing the market potential of developing soil conditioning products from biomass combustion residues

Through a detailed market research and exploitation study this project will assess the
commercial potential of developing soil conditioning products from biomass (and waste
biomass) combustion residues (BCRs), principally ash byproducts.
Preliminary research indicates that ash from converting biomass to energy (principally woody
biomass) possess unique chemical and physical properties with potential applications in
agricultural and horticultural sectors: In short, BCRs may have beneficial effects when
applied to land. In recognition of this opportunity, Stopford proposes to develop a novel
“technological upgrading” BCR recovery process which offers a cost-effective and
environmentally sustainable circular-economy approach to the management of BCRs. This
concept would provide an innovative solution to >100,000 tonnes of BCR produced annually
in the UK (a conservative estimate based on the production of the five largest currently
operating biomass plants in the UK with a total fuel demand of ~2,000,000 tpa) and produce a
sustainable alternative to mineral based soil conditioning products.
Stopford will use the market study to examine market barriers and drivers for uptake of such a
product in agriculture, as well as the current fertiliser and soil-conditioner market. The study
will also clarify Stopford’s interpretation of the current state of the biomass ash resource base
in the UK. It will facilitate an understanding of critical information on key market indices that
will drive market entry and acceptance for end products such as fertilisers, growth substrates,
liming agents and soil stabilisers. A regulatory review and engagement with relevant
authorities will be undertaken as part of this study to highlight potential bottlenecks that must
be overcome in order to bring the technology to the market.
A final report will detail the findings of the study, and provide information to establish a
framework for an R&D program for the novel BCR recovery process.