At NorvanTech, our mission is to bridge the gap between cutting-edge academic research and practical, scalable biofuel solutions. We bring advanced biomass pretreatment and densification technologies out of the lab and into real-world industrial systems.

We work directly with biomass producers, pellet manufacturers, energy utilities, equipment developers, and clean energy programs such as CleanBC and Canada’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard. Our goal is to help all partners in the biomass value chain succeed in producing high-value, low-emission fuels that are ready for global markets.

Our focus is on enabling:
• High-performance solid biofuels such as steam-pretreated pellets and torrefied biocoal
• Sustainable supply chains that lower greenhouse gas emissions
• Efficient, cost-effective processing systems designed for real-world biomass

Our Research Foundation

NorvanTech’s innovations are built on the research of Dr. Bahman Ghiasi and his collaborators from leading institutions such as the University of British Columbia, the University of Alberta, Oak Ridge National Laboratory in the United States, and BioFuelNet Canada.

This body of work has produced foundational tools and knowledge in:
• Steam pretreatment process design and optimization
• Reactor modeling for torrefaction systems
• Lifecycle analysis including Net Energy Ratio and greenhouse gas emissions
• Economic modeling of pellet production at scale
• System-level integration of feedstock, process, and market demands

Technical Contributions

Advanced Process Modeling
We have developed full-scale models using Aspen Plus that simulate steam pretreatment, pelletization, and overall energy and mass flows. These models have been validated using real data from laboratory and pilot-scale facilities.

They allow NorvanTech to accurately predict performance metrics like Net Energy Ratio and lifecycle carbon emissions for various feedstocks including wheat straw, switchgrass, and forest residues. This reduces guesswork and makes project development more predictable and efficient.

Steam Pretreatment Optimization
NorvanTech helped define the current best-practice settings for steam pretreatment — a temperature of 160 degrees Celsius and partial treatment of 50 percent of the biomass.

We’ve shown that treating more than half the biomass can sharply lower energy efficiency, while treating half achieves the best balance between durability and emissions. Our optimized process designs minimize drying energy and produce pellets that meet the demanding standards of the EU and Asia.

Torrefaction Reactor Development
Our team contributed to the design and modeling of both vertical and horizontal moving bed torrefaction reactors.

We built a four-zone model that maps the drying, heating, holding, and cooling phases of torrefaction. These designs improve product consistency and make it possible to recycle process gases, which enhances energy efficiency.

Demonstration Projects and Industry Impact

NorvanTech’s tools and models have been used in several major demonstration efforts:

• Steam pretreatment pilot runs at the University of British Columbia
• Durability testing of pellets destined for export
• Moving bed torrefier trials at Idaho National Laboratory

These projects have validated that steam-pretreated pellets perform better than untreated ones in transport and handling. They’ve also confirmed that torrefied pellets deliver superior grindability and hydrophobicity, essential for co-firing and global shipping.

Our work has helped companies secure carbon credits and meet RED II requirements for sustainability in Europe.

NorvanTech’s Innovation Roadmap (2025–2026)

• Refine hybrid systems that combine torrefaction and steam pretreatment
• Develop modular systems for torrefaction and pelletization in remote forestry regions
• Implement real-time monitoring of Net Energy Ratio and GHG performance
• Integrate AI-based optimization in collaboration with UBC data science experts

Partnerships and Ecosystem Integration

Our impact is amplified through collaboration.

NorvanTech maintains strong research partnerships with UBC, the University of Alberta, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

We work closely with BC-based pellet producers, equipment developers, and export market integrators across Japan, South Korea, and Europe.

We also engage directly with government programs to help shape and support clean energy policy under CleanBC and the LCFS.

Summary: Why NorvanTech Matters

NorvanTech turns scientific breakthroughs into real-world impact. We do this by translating advanced research into reliable, market-ready solutions for biomass processing.

We specialize in modeling, process design, and optimization for steam pretreatment, torrefaction, and densification. Our experience and research-backed tools give our clients the confidence to scale production and meet global standards.

Our innovation pipeline aligns with the world’s most ambitious climate goals, and we are committed to helping British Columbia and Canada lead in the next generation of clean, solid biofuels.