Analysis of calorific value

Calorific value analysis measures the energy released during the complete combustion of a sample, a key parameter for evaluating the energy performance of many raw materials or recoverable waste. This analysis is essential for the environmental, materials, biomass, alternative fuel, and energy recovery sectors. It applies to solid fuels as well as liquids or complex mixtures derived from industrial residues.

Calorific value is expressed in two distinct values. The lower heating value (LHV) expresses the available energy excluding the latent heat of vaporization of water, while the higher heating value (HHV) includes this heat and therefore reflects the total theoretical energy produced. The distinction between LHV and HHV is crucial for optimizing combustion processes and for complying with regulatory, technical, or contractual specifications.

Industrial implications of calorific value analysis

Accurate knowledge of a material's calorific value makes it possible to:
• optimize the energy efficiency of thermal or pyrolysis installations
• select raw materials adapted to energy needs
• characterize the variability of fuels derived from biomass or waste
• assess the profitability or relevance of an energy recovery sector
• verify the conformity of fuels sold or exported

In the waste treatment, advanced fuels, biomaterials or alternative fuels sectors, this analysis is a critical indicator for sizing processes, reducing costs and ensuring performance.

Analytical methods: bomb calorimetry, DSC and spectrometry

Calorific value analysis is generally performed using a bomb calorimeter conforming to international standards, notably ISO 18125 and ASTM. The sample is burned in a controlled atmosphere, and the heat released is measured with high precision.

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) can be used to support the characterization of thermal transitions and complement the energy interpretation of the material. In some cases, mass spectrometry (MS) can identify the gaseous compounds generated during combustion, which is useful for more in-depth studies on thermal behavior or industrial safety.

These methods allow us to obtain:
• the lower heating value (LHV) and the higher heating value (HHV)
• a detailed thermal profile of the material
• comparative data between batches or sources of supply
• elements for modeling or optimizing combustion

Matrices analyzed and applications

Calorific value analysis applies to a very wide range of products used in the energy transition, waste recovery, and innovative materials. Typical matrices include: biomass (wood, pellets, agricultural residues), industrial or household waste, plastics, polymers, alternative fuels, oils, solvents, solid residues, dried sludge, and waste-derived fuels.

Industrial applications include:
• energy qualification of solid or liquid fuels
• feasibility studies for energy recovery
• optimization of boiler or thermal unit settings
• comparison of different biomass suppliers or supply chains
• compliance with specific standards or specifications

YesWeLab Support

YesWeLab relies on a network of laboratories specializing in thermal, energy, and physicochemical analyses, selected for their expertise and compliance with ISO 17025 and COFRAC standards. Our scientific team supports you in defining the appropriate method, preparing samples, and interpreting results to precisely address your energy challenges.

Thanks to our digital platform, you can easily manage your analyses, track your samples, and access your reports. Since 2020, numerous industrial companies, engineering firms, energy recovery unit operators, and materials manufacturers have trusted YesWeLab to measure their calorific value.

Other recommended analyses

• Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)
• Elemental composition (CHNS)