Method and system for the torrefaction of lignocellulosic material

A system for the torrefaction of lignocellulosic material comprising:

• a dryer for drying lignocellulosic material adapted to remove at least of a portion of moisture contained within the lignocellulosic material;
• a torrefaction reactor adapted to operate at a pressure between 1 and 50 bar and at a temperature between 100 and 1000° C., wherein the torrefaction reactor generates torrefied biomass from the lignocellulosic material and generates torrefaction gas;
• a first recycle loop adapted to recycle torrefaction gas back to the torrefaction reactor;
• a cooler adapted to cool torrefied biomass, wherein the cooler is adapted to operate in a substantially oxygen-free environment;
• a second recycle loop adapted to recycle inert gas to the cooler and to provide inert gas to the torrefaction reactor;
• and
• a supply line adapted to supply inert gas for addition to the cooler;
• wherein the system is adapted to use the inert gas as at least a partial medium for transferring heat among the torrefaction reactor and the cooler.