Crane & Co. plans rapid thermal processing energy technology at Massachusetts mill [From the web]

DALTON, MA, Feb. 25, 2011 (Local News) - Crane & Co. is planning to employ a rarely used, clean-energy technology to reduce the paper maker's energy costs and possibly bring 100 new jobs to the region.

The technology, known as Rapid Thermal Processing, or RTP, converts local waste or scrap wood into a clean-burning, nearly carbon-neutral biofuel, which would replace fuel oil in burners and generators. The biofuel -- called pyrolysis oil -- can also be used as a replacement for electricity and natural gas. The conversion occurs when the waste wood is vaporized at high heat in the absence of oxygen.

Stephen A. Sears, a partner in Berkshire Renewable Power, which will help Crane develop the project, said the RTP could generate enough electricity "to basically take Crane off the grid."

Berkshire Eagle - Paper maker turns waste wood to biofuel, jobs

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