Development of slow pyrolysis business operations in Finland

Birch distillate, a new innovation in biological plant protection, is obtained as a by-product in charcoal production by slow pyrolysis process. MTT and University of Helsinki found during the recent years it to be a promising source for many kinds of biological pesticides. However, in the commercialization of the product there are still problems. The research is being continued during 2008-2011 within a new joint project of VTT, MTT and University of Helsinki. The primary aim of this project is to support and develop slow pyrolysis business operations of small and medium-sized enterprises by generating knowledge that the enterprises need in the commercialization of the products. The tasks include optimization of product lines, development of business concepts, characterisation of the products, and ensuring constant quality of the products. In addition, potential uses for the distillate and tar products, EU registration requirements, and environmental impacts of the products are determined.