Overview - EN ISO 17828:2025 (Solid biofuels - Determination of bulk density)
EN ISO 17828:2025 / ISO 17828:2025 specifies a standardized laboratory method for determining the bulk density of pourable solid biofuels using defined measuring containers. The method applies to solid biofuels with a nominal top size up to 63 mm (maximum particle length 200 mm). For fuels with nominal top size larger than 63 mm, the standard prescribes an alternative procedure and a dedicated measuring container. The standard recognizes that bulk density is not absolute and standardizes test conditions so results are comparable across labs and supply chains.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and materials: Pourable solid biofuels such as pellets, shavings, sawdust, wood chips and other biomass fractions that can flow in a continuous stream.
- Measuring containers:
- Small standardized container (5 L) - typically used for pellets, fine fractions and kernels.
- Standardized container (50 L) - for materials with nominal top size up to 63 mm.
- Non-standard / large container (>1 m³) - for coarse biofuels with particle size >63 mm.
- Sample constraints: Maximum particle length limited to 200 mm for the main procedure.
- Apparatus: calibrated balances, standardized containers, scantlings, wooden board/impact surface; optional controlled shock exposure apparatus and spill-prevention aids.
- Procedure elements: determination of container volume, container selection, sample filling, optional controlled shock exposure (to reflect practical compaction during transport/storage), weighing and calculation.
- Calculations and reporting: bulk density reported as received (with optional dry-basis calculation), defined rounding rules and a revised test report clause.
- Performance characteristics: clauses on repeatability and reproducibility to support laboratory quality assurance.
Practical applications and users
- Where used: quality control labs, biomass producers, suppliers, transport operators, storage and logistics planners, heating plant operators and procurement teams.
- Why it matters: bulk density informs energy density (together with calorific value), determines transport and storage space requirements, supports invoicing and mass-volume conversions for deliveries, and helps assess compaction effects from vibration, shock, moisture changes, biodegradation and pressure.
- Beneficiaries: certification bodies, regulatory agencies, commercial buyers and sellers of solid biofuels, and research institutions studying biomass handling and logistics.
Related standards and context
- Supersedes EN ISO 17828:2015; developed by ISO/TC 238 in collaboration with CEN/TC 335.
- Useful alongside standards for moisture determination, particle size / grading, and calorific value when assessing overall fuel quality and energy content.
Keywords: EN ISO 17828:2025, ISO 17828:2025, solid biofuels, bulk density determination, measuring container, pellets, wood chips, biomass storage, biofuel quality.
