Summary

Solid and wet biomass fuels are of relatively low energy density, compared with fossil alternatives, and consequently large volumes are typically required to be stored and transported, both into the storage receptacle and from it to the energy conversion equipment.

Factors to consider
Biomass does not generally flow as freely as oil or natural gas.It will usually absorb moisture if exposed to it. It may naturally biodegrade in storage through a number of mechanisms, particularly if not absolutely dry. This will lead to loss of energy content and potentially the formation of moulds, the spores of which can be dangerous if inhaled.

Design of the storage facility
The storage of biomass must be well designed and constructed for a number of functions. It must keep the fuel in good condition, particularly protecting it from moisture.It must also be possible to deliver the fuel into an appropriate receptacle for transport, and convey it from there to its next destination conveniently and efficiently and requiring the minimum of additional energy input.

The whole process of biomass storing includes biomass delivery in a stock, its storage and extracting biomass from the storage facility. Under the term "storage" should also include the temporary storage, which is a short-term storage, usually tree trunks, or packets at the edge of the woods or fields. This method of storage is used to bridge the time between harvesting and removal, whether for direct use or long-term storage.Unlike the temporary storage a long-term storage is more economically costly. Long-term storage compared with temporary storage has larger volume of space and in mostly it happens in a built or enclosed space. For this reason, the long-term storage, unlike the temporary storage requires more investment costs, operating costs and staff costs.

The need for each type of storage space depends on the type of biomass and requirements for the storage or use.

Full document