A prototype, large-scale pelletizer is being tested at the University of Missouri, Columbia. While the prototype machine only produces about 20 lbs. of pellets an hour, the next design is expected to produce 2 to 3 tons per hour and be fully automated. The project is funded by a U.S. Dept. of Energy grant.

"Our expectation is that our device will cost less than conventional pellet machines, use less energy and work without a binding agent," says Jesse VanEngelenhoven, research director, Ecologic Tech. "We expect the machine to be in high demand for use by commercial loggers, farmers and possibly ethanol producers."

VanEngelenhoven projects the machine will be ready for licensing within the next two years. The prototype is being used to gauge energy consumption and work out design changes as needed.

The machine presses bulk quantities of switchgrass or corn stalks into 6-in. dia. tablets. The key, according to VanEngelenhoven, is to find the balance between density and air pockets that allows the tablets to maintain their shape during transport and shipping, yet burn easily and completely.

The next stage will be a commercial scale unit that can produce about 17,000 tons of tablets per year. At that point, Ecologic Tech will license the technology.

"We are a company that develops new technologies," explains VanEngelenhoven. "We would hope to have a company like Deere or AGCO pick up the rights and pay a royalty for every machine produced."

He says no decision has been made yet as to whether the final machine should be mobile or stationary. "Both have merit, but we would love direct feedback from farmers," says VanEngelenhoven.

He says no decision has been made yet as to whether the final machine should be mobile or stationary. "Both have merit, but we would love direct feedback from farmers," says VanEngelenhoven.